Japanese dive bombers initially approached Saratoga but turned toward Enterprise, which appeared a less forbidding target. An anecdote attributed to Aristotle in this account illustrates the same reasoning during an Athenian retreat. While other soldiers discarded their weapons, the central figure kept his shield, spear, and helmet and marched away ready to defend himself. Pursuers preferred easier victims because they also wanted to survive. The comparison offers an interpretation of target choice through apparent readiness to fight; the ancient episode is a reported anecdote.
Notable Point · 2:22:35-2:24:35
Saratoga and the deterrent value of appearing ready to fight
An ancient retreat anecdote illustrates the interpretation that Japanese attackers preferred a less forbidding target when Saratoga appeared ready to resist.