Hoplite Helmets
The ancient Greeks were famous for a certain type of soldier who was armed with a spear, breastplate, shield and special helmet. This soldier was known as the hoplite. Hoplites were the most elite of all Greek soldiers and were respected by the rest of society.
The plumes found on hoplite helmets were used for two main purposes, to scare enemies and prevent friendly fire. Later, plumes could also be used to determine rank.
These helmets were primarily used by the Spartans, but were later adapted by the rest of the city states in the Greek world.
The hoplite helmets were made from horse hair and were primarily colored red.
Occasionally you could find one with red and black or black and white stripes. They could be worn going from the front of the helmet to the back or from one side to the other.
Today we are creating our own hoplite helmets. You can print the template on cardstock or you can cut it out and use it to cut your cardboard to the proper measurements. You can feel free to make the template larger or smaller to fit the size of helmet you want.
Supplies:
- Template (Click here)
- Glue gun
- Tape
- Thin cardboard (optional)
- Paint (optional)
Steps for creating your own miniature hoplite helmet:
1. Print the the template
2. Cut it out (if you want to trace the cutouts on to thin cardboard, I recommend using a cereal box.)
2. Slightly bend each piece (Details in the video)
3. Use a glue gun or tape to put together the pieces (glue gun is highly recommended but only with parental supervision)
4. Add a plume (Make sure that it is uniquely yours)
5. Enjoy your hoplite helmet
