What did a shieldbearer do?

A shieldbearer was a soldier responsible for carrying and protecting a shield, often for a more prominent warrior or leader, in ancient military contexts. Their primary role was to provide defense in battle, using the shield to block attacks and create a protective barrier. Additionally, shieldbearers often assisted in formations, ensuring the safety of their commander while engaging in combat. This position was typically associated with close combat and required a high level of trust between the shieldbearer and the warrior they protected.