In today's podcast, Tony talks about Spartacus the Thracian slave, and the rebellion he led against Rome.

If you enjoyed the podcast, you might like to read Spartacus and the Slave War from Osprey Books.

Spartacus, marble sculpture of Denis Foyatier (1830), Louvre Museum
Spartacus was the rebel gladiator who raised an army of slaves against Rome, multiplying victories before being defeated by Crassus in 71 BC. He is represented here having just broken his chains. Arms folded, with an expression of grim determination, he seems to be plotting his revenge. In 1830, due to political opportunism, the sculpture came to symbolize the July Revolution.

Freya's note: Tony's interest in Spartacus was prompted by us watching the four series of the same name. It's a very Hollywood-ised series, with lots of sex and violence, so it's definitely not for the faint-hearted! There a couple of historical liberties taken, such as the appearance of Gaius Julius Caesar, who wasn't connected with Spartacus. Usually I find these irritating, but I have to say I really enjoyed this series. The majority of the historical facts are correct, and the story follows Spartacus's life (insofar as it's known) from the moment he's taken into slavery until his death. (Sorry, spoiler.) If you haven't seen it, and you're not squeamish, it's worth a watch!

Freya discusses the growing threat of Germanic invasions on the south-east coast of England, the rise of the Saxon Shore forts, and the end of Roman Britain.

Richborough Roman Fort (Rutupiae)

Freya examines the importance of the stirrup in mounted warfare, from the domestication of the horse around 4600BC to the rise of the medieval knight and the French couched lance. She also looks at The Great Stirrup Controversy, which discusses whether the stirrup contributed to the rise of feudalism.

If you're interested in reading more about the development of cavalry in Europe, this Osprey book is a useful guide to the period. Click on the cover to go to Osprey's site.