The cold face of battle – some remarks on the function of Roman helmets with face masks

Abstract

This essay offers reflections on the functions of Roman helmets with masks. They were one of the most effective elements of Roman soldiers’ equipment, arousing scholars’ interest and controversy since the 19th century. Despite abundant literature, their function is still the subject of numerous discussions. Scholars’ views revolve around a few possibilities. Two most popular of such theses supposedly exclude one another. They claim that the helmets were used during parades and festivities or during battles. The author, taking into consideration archaeological sources, historical records, metallographic analyses and the outcome of various experiments seeks to show that these helmets proved to be a perfect solution in both cases.