(Ennius, Ann. frag. 31.493) IN THE LATE SUMMER of 216 BCE Hannibal had little time to enjoy the fruits of his victory after the destruction of the Roman armies at Cannae. He was in his element on the battlefield in the role of master strategist directing the different pieces of his army. In Polybius’ mind Hannibal’s genius rested in his personal command over a heterogeneous force of ‘men who had nothing naturally in common’ but whom he kept at a high functioning level.1 He is compared to a good ship’s captain steering his vessel, keeping everyone in harmony (Polyb. 11.19.3). Hannibal, in fact, used the diversity of his army to exploit the consistency of the Roman legions, employing elements of surprise and unorthodox tactics to keep his enemy off balance.2 The brilliance of the victory at Cannae faded quickly for Hannibal as he faced the daunting task of trying to defeat the Romans off the battlefield as well. More than ever his depleted forces needed allies, bases and support from the cities and states of southern Italy.
What do You think about Hannibal: A Hellenistic Life?
