Gladiators 4th-1st centuries BC

This new study explores the origins, rules, and rituals of ancient Roman gladiator games, revealing the lives and legacies of these legendary arena fighters. It features eight plates of artwork, photographs, and drawings, correcting misconceptions and shedding new light on their roles and legacy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 64 pages
Publication date: 18 August 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This groundbreaking new study delves into the enigmatic world of the ancient Roman gladiators, shedding light on their origins, evolution, and significance in the Roman society. Originating as a part of funeral rites during the Punic Wars in the 3rd century BC, the Roman gladiator games quickly gained popularity and became a symbol of the spectacle and savagery of Republican and Imperial Rome. With increasingly elaborate rules and rituals governing the conduct of gladiator combat, a diverse range of gladiator types, armed with specialized weapons and armor, engaged in fierce battles against each other, either individually or in groups. While many gladiators met a tragic end, some managed to survive and achieve celebrity status, amassing considerable fortunes. Despite the wealth of literary and archaeological evidence, numerous misconceptions about the gladiators and their violent world persist.

To address these gaps, this fully illustrated account presents a comprehensive exploration of the lesser-known and underrepresented gladiators of the centuries preceding the dawn of the Principate. Through eight plates of stunning specially commissioned artwork, alongside photographs and drawings of key visual evidence, readers are transported back to the world of these legendary arena fighters. The book aims to correct myths and shed new light on the roles, lives, and legacies of these iconic warriors, providing a fresh perspective on their historical significance.

In conclusion, this groundbreaking study offers a profound and captivating exploration of the ancient Roman gladiators, shedding light on their origins, evolution, and profound impact on Roman society. Through meticulous research, stunning artwork, and comprehensive analysis, the book provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of this iconic cultural phenomenon, correcting misconceptions and illuminating the lives and legacies of these legendary arena fighters.

Weight: 212g
Dimension: 185 x 247 x 7 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472850928