Champion warfare

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The biblical David faces Goliath in single combat as their armies look on.

Champion warfare refers to a type of battle, most commonly found in the epic poetry and myth of ancient history, in which the outcome of the conflict is determined by an individual duel between the best soldiers ("champions") from each opposing army. Champion warfare can also refer to a battle in which armies actually engage, but champions within the armies fight so effectively as to single-handedly carry the sway of battle, such as in the Iliad.

[edit] Champion Warfare in Literature

• Numerous instances of Champion Warfare can be observed in Homer's Iliad, most notably the climactic battle between Achilles and Hector, although there are very many more.
• Champion Warfare in a common theme in the early books of Livy's history of Rome Ab Urbe Condita ("From the Founding of the City"), including the story of the famous triplets of the Horatii and Curiatii families and the great champion Horatius Cocles.
• In the Christian Bible, the battle between David and Goliath is an example of champion warfare.

[edit] Champion Warfare in Movies

• In the 2004 film version of the Iliad, Troy (film), champion warfare is prominent and well illustrated.
• In the movie Hero (2002 film), a few choice soldiers bring down armies, as well as ending a conflict with a duel.