The Conflict between the Argives and Lacedaemonians
Initial Battle Formation
Upon observing the enemy, the Argives and their allies took a strong defensive position. In response, the Lacedaemonians charged forward to engage, initially stunning the Argive forces with their sudden advancement.
Spartan Strategy
A Spartan elder criticized King Agis for his reckless aggression against a strong position, which prompted Agis to withdraw his forces before engagement, possibly heeding the elder's admonition. Agis then redirected a water source to disrupt the Mantineans and Tegeans, hoping that this action would provoke the Argives into engagement over the diversion, potentially allowing him to fight on more favorable ground. The Argives reacted with confusion at the Lacedaemonian withdrawal, leading to internal blame directed at their generals for not pursuing the enemy.
Levelling Preparations
The following day, the Argives arranged themselves in preparation for battle, anticipating a possible clash. Meanwhile, the Lacedaemonians returned from watering their troops at the Heraclea shrine and noticed the Argive formation, which added to the rising tension. Under King Agis's directives, the Lacedaemonians swiftly prepared for battle, mobilizing all ranks under their established military hierarchy.
Armament and Allegiance
The left wing of the Lacedaemonians consisted of the Sciritae, a unit unique to them, followed by various contingents from Arcadia and other allied cities. Opposing them were the Argive forces, prominently featuring the Mantineans, with their cavalry positioned on both sides.
Armies' Composition and Size
The Lacedaemonian contingent appeared larger, although confirming exact numbers proved challenging. They showcased seven divisions, with their hoplites displayed in meticulous arrangements, the first line generally three to four deep, demonstrating their military organization.
Motivational Address Before Battle
Leaders urged their men to fight for honor and freedom, especially focusing on historical grievances against the Lacedaemonians. Commanders from diverse cities aimed to inspire a sense of unity and valor among the troops, stressing the importance of this battle while highlighting personal stakes to galvanize forces against the perceived threat.
The Actual Battle Engagement
The two armies initiated hostilities with the Argives charging aggressively, while the Lacedaemonians maintained a disciplined pace. Initial successes favored the Argives, but the veteran Lacedaemonians demonstrated unexpected skill in close-quarter combat.
Agis's Tactical Inspections
Anticipating a strategy of flanking, Agis directed certain troops to maneuver against expected enemy vulnerabilities, a move meant to strengthen his side's position in the battle.
Tactical Failures and Results
Despite confronting unforeseen challenges, the Lacedaemonians fought fiercely but made critical tactical miscalculations. The Mantineans capitalized on the ensuing confusion, effectively disrupting the Lacedaemonian lines.
Aftermath and Reflection
The battle's aftermath was characterized by chaos, with casualties on both sides reflecting the volatility of the conflict. Nevertheless, the Lacedaemonians aimed to regroup and mitigate the impact on the home front despite their losses.
Conclusion of Hostilities
The intensity and consequences of the battle prompted a reevaluation of strategy, leading both sides to condense their forces and recognize their weakened positions.
Future Alliances and Hostilities
Future military engagements were anticipated, underlining the dynamic and fragile relationships between states, coupled with lobbying against the growing Athenian power, which concentrated on rebuilding coalitions with former allies.
