Harry Sidebottom

Join Harry Sidebottom, a Lecturer in Ancient History at Oxford and bestselling author, as he dives into the world of Roman gladiators. Discover how gladiatorial games reveal Roman beliefs about life and death, and learn surprising facts about their diets and training regimens. Harry discusses the complexities of their lives, from being symbols of hope to facing brutal realities. He also explores the links between gladiators and legionaries, the cultural perceptions of this iconic role, and how Stoic philosophy shaped their resilience in the arena.

Dr. Harry Sidebottom, a best-selling author and expert on Roman history, dives into the gritty life of gladiators. He reveals the duality of these figures, from condemned slaves to celebrated heroes, and discusses their rigorous training and dietary struggles. The guests explore rituals like the Cana Libera feast before a fight, and the varied motivations behind individuals becoming gladiators. Listeners also learn about the fascinating crowd dynamics, the significance of midday executions, and the complex relationship between gladiators and their audience.