History Documentary hosted by Sara Verhagen, published by France Televisions in 2023 - English narration
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-- French title "Dans la peau du legionnaire romain" --
Rome at its peak and armies of legionaries defending the Empire. The Roman soldier embodies its power and influence. Cherished by legendary stories, popular belief or cinema, the image is an efficient, valiant and disciplined fighter. However, the latest archaeological discoveries today provide a surprising vision of man and his daily life.
There was a time in history when the Roman military was invincible, but this success was only made possible by its exceptionally powerful army. The force's heavy infantrymen - known as legionaries - were efficient, disciplined and utterly fearless, almost mythological. And yet, they were flesh and blood men.
What type of man would become a legionary? How did they live, and what did they dream of? What bound them together, willing to risk their own lives for their fellow soldiers? Discoveries of ancient Roman camps across Europe are shedding new light on the lives of their soldier occupants.
Over the last few decades, numerous archaeological excavations have helped to deconstruct the cliches that surround the legendary figure.
Following recent and current excavations from Vindolanda in northern England, to Fourviere Hill in Lyon's Roman Quarter, alongside leading experts and thanks to priceless relics found (weapons, clothes, dishes and even correspondence), as well as reenactments and 3D reconstruction, this archaeological and scientific investigation will bring this ancient world to life to uncover the truth of the living man behind the legendary soldier.
Written & Directed by Pierre-Francois Gaudry ; A Co-Production by Mona Lisa Productions and Wide Productions with France Televisions, ZED, CNC, Histoire TV, Focus/Mediaset, FTV Prima, Movistar Plus, Viasat World and Telefonica
2) From One Generation to the Next
His art of combat, his strength, his sword have made his legend. Many images and popular beliefs accompany the model of the Roman soldier - incarnation of the power of Rome -, often limited to that of an intrepid, efficient and disciplined fighter. But behind the myth, who was he really? In Roman legions, camaraderie in contubernium sustained soldiers. Lyon excavations reveal their humanity and piety, hinting at hopes for retirement after 25 years, as their correspondence is also being exhumed! In 1973, in Vindolanda, archaeologists made a major discovery: wooden tablets containing writings in ink. Several hundred others have been discovered since. The lack of oxygen in these soils favors exceptional conservation conditions. Deciphering the tablets reveals letters exchanged between the legionnaires and their families. "Hello comrade! Say hello to everyone. In this package, we are sending you two pairs of socks and two pairs of underpants..." A more personal reality that archaeologists, ceramologists and anthropologists bring to light from the countless treasures delivered by Vindolanda and Lugdunum. Little by little, a more intimate, more human portrait of the Roman legionary is emerging, away from the battlefields.
