ReconstructingtheImageofRomanGladiators.pptVIP

Reconstructing the Image of Roman Gladiators Ruina Ma Peking University Contradictory Image: least human and most human Lowest social status vs. highest military model Lowest mundane status vs. most sacred sacrifice Violent sacrifice vs matrydom Fight for freedom vs acceptence to death (gods) Historical Background 1.Origin of Gladiator Debate ? 3C BCE Punic War, Funeral first in 310 BCE Campanian vs Samnites first Roman one in 264 BCE (Livy, 9.40.17) other evidences: the first school (ludi) in Campania frescos in 3C BCE Historical Background The Dictator, as decreed by the senate, celebrated a triumph, in which by far the finest show was afforded by the captured armour. So the Romans made use of the splendid armour of their enemies to do honour to their gods; while the Campanians, in consequence of their pride and in hatred of the Samnites, equipped after this fashion the gladiators who furnished them entertainment at their feasts, and bestowed on them the name Samnites. (Livy 9.40)(translation Futrell) Historical Background 2.Peak 1C BCE-2C Increasing economical and political influence Julius Caesar’s great gladiatorial games 320 Augustus’ justification Trajan’s celebration on victory over Dacians(123days, 10000gladiators, 11000animals) Historical Background 3.Decline 3C-5C In times in which peace and peace relating to domestic affairs prevail bloody demonstrations displease us. Therefore, we order that there may be no more gladiator combats. Those who were condemned to become gladiators for their crimes are to work from now on in the mines. Thus they pay for their crimes without having to pour their blood.(Constantine 9.18.1) Historical Background Gladiator types: Adabata Bestiarius Cestus Dimachearus Equites Secutor Murmillo … Sacramentum gladiatorium Uri, vinciri, verberari, ferroque necari patior.( Petronius, Satyricon 117) He swore to endure being burned, bound, beatean, and slain by the sword