For a purely frontal attack against any nation whatsoever is dangerous and full of risk, even if those opposing you may be less numerous.

— Leo VI the Wise Tactica (895)

Καὶ γὰρ ἐπισφαλές ἐστι καὶ ἐπικίνδυνον ἡ δι' ὄψεως μόνον μάχη καὶ πρὸς οἱονδήποτε ἔθνος γινομένη, κἂν τάχα καὶ ὀλιγώτερον πλῆθός ἐστι τὸ ἀντικαθιστάμενον.

Original text (Ancient Greek)

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The general is the chief officer of the military theme under his command. He is appointed by the emperor.

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As it moves into battle must loudly shout the victory cry of the cross, customary among Christians (i.e. Σταυρός νικά, 'the cross is victorious').

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Subjects somehow tend to be affected by the resolute spirit of their leaders. As the proverb has it: Deer ought not to rule over lions, but lions over deer.

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It is not the imperial pageantry and authority, not the power and extent of that authority, not the display and enjoyment of all that. It is not any of those things sought after and esteemed by men that brings such joy to Our Majesty as does the peace and prosperity of our subjects and the setting aright and the constant improvement in those matters that affect our citizens.

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You shall equip the infantry skoutatos, formerly called hoplite, with a sword, a lance, and, when necessary, a shield of the kind called thyreos, large and oblong in shape but altogether completely curved. All the shields in each arithmos or tagma should be of the same color.

Tactica (895)

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For a purely frontal attack against any nation whatsoever is dangerous and full of risk, even if those opposing you may be less numerous.

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