The Roman Games: Historical Sources in Translation - Paperback

by Alison Futrell (Editor)

This sourcebook presents a wealth of material relating to every aspect of Roman spectacles, especially gladiatorial combat and chariot racing.

• Draws on the words of eye-witnesses and participants, as well as depictions of the games in mosaics and other works of art.
• Offers snapshots of "a day at the games" and "the life of a gladiator".
• Includes numerous illustrations.
• Covers chariot-races, water pageants, naval battles and wild animal fights, as well as gladiatorial combat.
• Combines political, social, religious and archaeological perspectives.
• Facilitates an in-depth understanding of this important feature of ancient life.

Back Jacket

This sourcebook presents a wealth of material that casts light on the rich tradition of Roman spectacle, with special focus on gladiatorial combat and chariot racing. Drawing on literary descriptions, inscriptions, reliefs, mosaics, and archaeological features, The Roman Games offers a range of political, social, and religious perspectives.

Featuring the accounts of eyewitnesses and participants, the book reconstructs the experience of "a day at the games" and the expectations of "the life of a gladiator."

The editor provides historical framework and analytical commentary for each of the entries, as well as a glossary of technical terms and a timeline to give additional context for students and general readers.

Author Biography

Alison Futrell is Associate Professor of Roman History at the University of Arizona in Tucson and author of Blood in the Arena: The Spectacle of Roman Power (1997). Her current research interests are in representations of gender and power, both in the ancient past and in modern popular culture. Her recent projects include the cultural history of Spartacus and a monograph on Barbarian Queens.