The theatrical art behind the Roman arena's violence
Beyond the raw combat, Roman arena games were carefully constructed spectacles. This lecture examines how stage sets and specialized equipment were used to create an artificial landscape for the games.
Dr. Garrett Fagan, a Professor of Ancient History at Penn State University, explores the theatrical elements that defined the Roman arena. The lecture investigates the specific stage sets and fighter equipment used to stage the violence of these spectacles.
By analyzing these artificial landscapes, Fagan considers what these features reveal about Roman attitudes toward arena violence and the psychological reactions of the spectators watching the games.
Source: How to Stage a Bloodbath: Gladiators at the Roman Arena
