Part 6/9:

The most famous aspect of gladiators was their role in public spectacles, often held in grand arenas like the Colosseum. Although combat could be deadly, not all gladiatorial matches ended in death. The odds of dying in battle were significant, about one in five, making skill and luck crucial during performances. Gladiators typically fought only a few times a year, but they were celebrated figures during these events.

Their participation in combat was often preceded by a lavish meal known as a cena libera, a feast that served to bolster morale and excitement for the upcoming contests. Yet death in the arena was compulsory, and while audience favor could sway decisions, escape was typically unlikely unless one could negotiate mercy by raising their finger in surrender.