The Roman Games: A Sourcebook (Blackwell Sourcebooks in Ancient History)

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.