Latest / Marcus Aurelius: Rome's Philosopher King — Fexingo History
Marcus Aurelius and the Roman Gladiatorial Games
We often picture Marcus Aurelius as a solitary philosopher king, but he was also the ultimate arena spectator. In this episode, we explore how the Roman Emperor managed the dangerous spectacle of gladiatorial combat while adhering to his Stoic principles. We look at the specific games held in 173 AD, the role of the venatores who hunted exotic beasts, and the complex relationship between imperial power and public violence. Lucas and Luna discuss the logistics of bringing lions from North Africa, the political implications of sparing a gladiator's life, and how Marcus navigated the…
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