This article examines the Battle of Zama in 202, which ended the Second Punic War (218–201) between Rome and Carthage. It argues that the maneuvers described by Polybius are most intelligible if Hannibal sought to corral Scipio into a trap formed by an extended third infantry line, perhaps aided by terrain. Scipio escaped by hastily extending his own forces, holding out until his superior cavalry enveloped Hannibal in turn.