An ancient Roman gladiator was a professional fighter who fought in public spectacles in the Roman Empire. Gladiators were often prisoners or enslaved people who fought for fame and wealth. They were trained to use specific weapons and fighting styles to entertain audiences.
Types of Roman gladiators
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RetiariusA net-fighter who wore armor on his left side to block blows. The word retiarius is Latin for “fisherman”.
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SecutorA gladiator who chased his opponent with a sword. The word secutor is Latin for “the chaser”. Secutors were protected by heavy armor and had a smooth, round helmet.
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GallusA gladiator from Gaul who relied on strength and armor to win. Gallus gladiators were often prisoners of war from the Gaul tribes.
Famous Roman gladiators
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SpartacusA gladiator who led a revolt of gladiators from their school in Capua. Plutarch described Spartacus as brave, intelligent, and a compassionate leader. -
CommodusAn emperor who fought in the Colosseum 732 times. Commodus would fight captive gladiators or injured animals with wooden swords. -
CrixusA gladiator who led a revolt of gladiators from their school in Capua. Crixus was killed in 72 BC. -
SpiculusA gladiator who was a favorite of Emperor Nero.
