Aryidannan Shield Designs
The Aryidannan Hoplite shield, the Hoplon, is a large round shield that protects most
of the Hoplite's body, leaving only her legs and head exposed, and those too are usually
proteced by armour. The Hoplon is not just a piece of gear however. It is
something far more important.
A Hoplon is the heart of the Hoplite, exposed to all the world to see. By looking
and studying her Hoplon the viewing will know what the Hoplite holds most dear
to herself, whom she supports or has fidelity to, or in some cases what kind of philosophy
she follows.
Fidelity Designs
 
Companionship is a central part of Hellenas culture. The strength of the Hoplite formation
comes from the trust and relationships of the maidens to each other. The detailed
paintings on the shield-face can be of partners, matrons or a Heroine the Hoplite
wishes to imitate or becomes friends with. Fideltiy designs are generally the most
sophisticated with life like quality and many background objects such as grapes, amorpha, and
fig trees.
Erotica Designs
Brazen damsels or the romatics commisson tastefull scenes of nude maidens on their
hoplons; in many cases the painting is of their own body and a direct statement about
the damsel's views and intentions. The scenes have minimalist background and warm
colours to fire the desire.
Abstract Designs
Maidens fired by idealism have iconoclastic paintings on their hoplon. These can be
symbols or letters closely related to a particular movement or philosophy, the Open
Hand for example. Some designs may not have any kind of apparent meaning at all and
tend to confuse or anger other damsels. It is wildy appected that maidens with abstract
designs have a greater degree of discipline and many become Heroines and lead their
own aerolae phalanx.
Other Designs
 
Sporting events and trophy images are also favourites amongst the serious minded damsel.
Heroines also like these designs to further show off their glamour. A blank faced
hoplon is a rare and dangerous sight that usually means it has been taken from a slain
maiden (or worse stolen). Because imagery is so important to a Hellenas maiden, and
thoroughly respected, if a hoplon comes into the hands of a new owner the previous
image is removed (for superstition if nothing else). A blank shield also means that
the maiden behind does not care enough for her culture. In some cases a maiden can
deliberately make this statement or be so distraught as to seek death on the meadow
by such a provocative decision.
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