Final answer:
A fully trained Roman legionary soldier's time was mostly spent on grueling marches, combat training, construction projects, and learning Latin. They served in a complex hierarchy within legions and had specialized roles, including the Praetorian Guard. Soldiers integrated into Roman culture, contributing to a collective Roman identity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fully trained legionary soldier in the Roman army would spend a significant amount of time engaged in various activities beyond combat. Service in the army was very demanding, with soldiers expected to endure grueling marches of over 20 miles with heavy packs and strict discipline. They underwent continuous combat drills to maintain peak readiness for battle. Additionally, legionaries were involved in building projects and had to master the Latin language for effective communication.
Legionaries served in a highly structured environment, with a legion consisting of approximately 5,400 infantry and specialists, supported by 120 cavalry. Each legion was subdivided into cohorts and centuries, led by centurions who were seasoned veterans. The structure promoted unit cohesion and a readiness to operate independently in hostile territories for extended periods.
The reorganization of the legions by Augustus was particularly important, leading to a standing, professional army with regular pay and retirement benefits. Recruitment for the army eventually extended to provincial subjects who, through their service, learned Latin and integrated into Roman culture, fostering a sense of Roman identity.
Specialized units like the Praetorian Guard had shorter service periods of 16 years with higher pay and were chiefly responsible for defending the emperor, reflecting the varied functions and incentives present within the Roman military structure. Military reforms and strategic organizational changes, like those implemented by Diocletian, were also a part of a legionary's reality, adapting to new threats and political dynamics of the time.