How did Romans perceive gladiators?
Successful gladiators could enjoy a following not far different from what modern athletes command today. The Roman Empire valued military exploits above all else and the ability of a fighter to face death without flinching was highly revered. A gladiator willing to submit to authority and die in the arena displayed herculean discipline, courage and heroism, by Roman standards. Gladiators were featured in wall mosaics, oil lamps and other ornaments. Rich women flocked to the banquets held for gladiators on the eve of their games. Procuring female companions was no problem for the victorious gladiator. Rumors circulated that the wife of Emperor Marcus Aurelius (161-180 AD) enjoyed regular trysts with gladiators at various coastal cities. Emperor Commodus gave one of the most potent displays of the extent to which gladiators could command the respect of their audience. Rumored to be the son of a gladiator, Commodus fought a reported 300 times as a gladiator, dressed as the god Hercules an
