How fierce was ancient combat? Are there detailed accounts one can point me to?

by someasshole2

Are modern depictions of ancient battles such as those featured in films like "300" and "Alexander" accurate and faithful? Were people covered in blood and getting their limbs lopped off left and right?

How effective was the phalanx formation? Was it truly as impenetrable as was depicted in "300?"

Were ancient cavalry units superior to modern-day horsemen in terms of their mastery of equestrianism and mounted combat (being able to maneuver a horse whilst engaged in combat with a sword or bow)

I can't imagine these battles being anything other than testosterone and adrenaline-fueled blood baths.

SepehrNS

Greetings. Not to discourage further responses, but do check out these older answers :

How historically accurate is the film 300? by u/Iphikrates, he talks about the phalanx formation portrayed in 300 in this comment.

Did "great warriors" exist? by u/Iphikrates

Why did the phalanx fall out of favour in warfare? by u/Iphikrates

Did the people in the front lines of ancient armies basically know they are going to die? by u/Iphikrates

Hope this helps.