Mercenaries during classical era

[ray245]

Is there any books that pay special attention to mercenaries during the classical period? I am interested in finding out whether Mercenaries brought along their consort and children with them on campaign, and how the various Mercenaries armies were orgainsed.

[Zinegata]

Just to clarify - are you referring to the Greek mercenaries like those featured in Xenophon's March?

[ray245]

Yes, as well as various other mercenary armies like the ones that was used by Carthage.

[Darth Wong]

I too am curious about the daily life of mercenaries in the Carthaginian army, especially considering the way they were used in combat (ie- put into the front line, with the spears of the second line at their backs in case they should attempt to flee).

[Zinegata]

For the Greeks you may want to look directly at the source materials - i.e. the Anabasis (which covers Xenophon's March).

Records on Carthage are more spotty though, since Rome pretty much destroyed all of their literature. But I suspect Thanas would know a few good Roman history books which covers the Carthaginians at length (i.e. Livy).