I feel like large sections of this could be replaced with "there was a large battle that resulted in this" and nothing would be lost.

Honestly, the sheer number of characters who get named, and have detailed backstories explained, for the sole purpose of immediately dying is, frankly, tiring.

"So princely Agripholus was the son of Argontus, and he was raised in the fertile lands of Haetus, known for their wooly sheep and swift-footed boys, with a score of donkeys and five score of steeds. And his shining armour reflected brightly, and the silver clasps were gifts from noble Pontiphus, who claimed them from the battle of Tiphus. Anyway, he's dead. Agamemnon speared him above the left nipple." Repeat ad nauseum.