he Battle of the Granicus in 334 BC is a prime example of Alexander leading the charge with his Companion cavalry. Perhaps it was the force of impact upon an enemy that broke the weapon held by Alexander. This was not unheard of, as the 2.75-metre-long was made of cornel wood, making it more likely to shatter upon heavy impact rather than unseat the rider wielding it. Arrian (1.15.5) emphasizes that the lengthier held a decisive advantage over
