GLADIATORIAL GAMES SURVIVAL GUIDE

Gladiators need to be ruthless, cunning, physically fit and harder than a centurion’s biceps. If a gladiator is going to last more than five minutes, he needs to know all about the different types of gladiator and their weapons.

 

THE HOPLOMACHUS is dressed to look like a Greek Hoplite soldier and is often pitted against a Murmillo, similar to a Roman soldier, to represent Rome’s glorious conquest of Greece. If you’re a Hoplomachus you’ll have a helmet and plenty of armour, and carry a spear and a short sword. But beware: if you’re up against a Murmillo, the crowd will probably want the Murmillo to win (depending on where in the Roman Empire you’re fighting).

THE MURMILLO has the short sword and shield of a Roman legionary (see above), and a helmet shaped like a fish. Depending on which Roman province you’re in, the crowd will probably be on your side, as long as you put up a good fight.

THE THRAEX represents a Thracian soldier. With a small shield and sword, the Thraex can be at a bit of a disadvantage, especially since he has less armour than some of the other gladiators. If you’re a Thraex up against a Hoplomachus, you’re in for a tough fight.

THE RETIARIUS might feel a little self-conscious: he holds a net (which he can use to trap his opponent), a trident (think Neptune, god of the sea) and a dagger. If you’re a Retiarius, you’ll have some armour on your arms and legs but no helmet. However ridiculous you look, you’re still expected to fight to the death.

 

THE WINNER TAKES IT ALL

Unfortunately for you, some gladiatorial contests are a fight to the death. If you lose but fight especially well you might be granted mercy – your opponent will be ordered to let you live, so you can fight another day. After a successful career as a gladiator, you might even be granted your freedom and escape the arena for ever.