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Gladiator Alan Roberts salutes the games' highest officials.
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 ladiators were a study in contrasts. They held the status of slaves, but were lauded like modern sports superstars. Their arena winnings could make them fabulously wealthy and attract scores of admiring women, but if killed, not all burial grounds would take their bodies. A combination of strength and vulnerability, gladiators would pave the way for later warriors - both in terms of weapons and body armor - and forever remain a symbol of courage in the face of daunting odds.
It could seat 50,000 spectators and made the gladiator games a world unto themselves. Enter the realm of the gladiator in this interactive tour of the Roman Colosseum.
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Two women - an archaeologist and a Royal Navy officer - enter the arena with four Royal Marines. How inclined are these gladiators to show mercy or go for the jugular? Find out!
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A Thracian gladiator blocks with his parma or shield.
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What gladiator role would you play? A Retarius with a net and a spear? The mighty Samnite with short sword and plumed helmet? Be careful - your choice can determine your survival.
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Surveying a hostile world
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