Centurion
Centurions were key officers in ancient Roman military structure, responsible for commanding a centuria, the smallest unit within a legion. A typical Roman legion comprised about 6,000 soldiers, organized into ten cohorts, each containing six centuria of roughly 100 men. Centurions held various ranks within the legion, with the primus pilus being a notable position that involved attending councils of war alongside higher command. This role was particularly significant as centurions often came from the ranks of common soldiers, giving them practical experience and a unique perspective on military operations compared to aristocratic commanders. Their primary function was to enforce discipline and maintain order among the troops, which was crucial for the effective functioning of the legion. Centurions are also remembered in cultural contexts, such as in biblical narratives, exemplified by figures like Cornelius, whose encounter with an angel is depicted in art. Overall, centurions played a vital role in the Roman military, influencing both its organization and effectiveness.
Centurion
In ancient Roman military society, an officer who commanded a centuria, the smallest unit of a legion. Legions, ideally composed of 6,000 soldiers, were divided into ten cohorts. Each cohort contained six centuria, each composed of approximately 100 men. Centurions were ranked within a legion and each was given certain responsibilities—one being designated the primus pilus. This centurion attended councils of war with the legion commander and other officers. The primus pilus was a particularly valuable asset to the legionary command, for centurions were generally common soldiers who rose through the ranks—a background that made them more knowledgeable of military practice than many aristocratic commanders. The centurion’s most vital role in the legion was as an enforcer of discipline and order.
