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.
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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.
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!
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