Gladiators at Pompeii

Illustrated with striking Pompeian depictions of these ancient combatants, Gladiators at Pompeii presents a complete picture of the gladiators of the Roman Empire and the highly organized and regulated tournaments in which they competed. Luciana Jabobelli reveals the latest evidence on the best-documented categories of gladiators, their origins, social status, equipment, and training. Originally staged for the funeral rights of prominent Roman citizens, gladiatorial games eventually became a tool for career politicians to both gain popularity and appease the often turbulent masses. While most gladiators were slaves or prisoners of war forced into a career of battle, others were criminals or free men from prominent families who aspired to fame and fortune. Surprisingly, there are even records of women gladiators.