The two sides faced one another on the Plain of Marathon. The rebels were led by Klytus and his brothers.
The Athenian army was boosted by the Sacred Band from Thebes which comprised three hundred, fearsome fighters who had responded to Theseus’ request for help
The Theban aid gave Theseus an advantage in numbers but, realising he was not experienced in this type of fighting, he had handed overall command to Damon.
‘We could beat Klytus, but I’d like to avoid huge losses, on both sides. There is no particular advantage here so success will depend on tactics.’
‘What do you suggest?’
‘Well, Theseus, normally the two sides would bombard one another with throwing spears and then move in, for hand-to-hand fighting with their short, s***h and stab swords, defending themselves with their rou
