Latest / Marcus Aurelius: Rome's Philosopher King — Fexingo History
The Stoic Emperor and the Gladiator's Oath
In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore a little-known aspect of Marcus Aurelius's reign: his relationship with gladiators and the arena. Despite his Stoic philosophy, the emperor was deeply involved in regulating the gladiatorial games, issuing edicts to limit costs and control the number of contests. They delve into the 177 AD decree that capped gladiator prices, the role of the gladiator's oath (sacramentum gladiatorium), and the paradox of a philosopher-king presiding over bloodsports. The conversation also touches on the emperor's personal letters to his tutor Fronto…
The skinny
The skinny isn't ready yet — notes appear once the transcript is processed.