Description
Book SynopsisWhy did the spectacles of violence and bloodshed in the amphitheatre prove so appealing to the Romans? To answer this, Professor Fagan examines the ancient evidence in detail and draws on insights from modern studies of social psychology, and especially the behaviour of crowds.
Trade Review'A vivid phenomenological account of the games … [a] well-informed book.' The Times Literary Supplement
'For industry, meticulous documentation of primary and secondary sources, cosmic view, and a good dose of common sense throughout, this is now unquestionably the best book on this repulsive but unavoidable subject. To adapt a famous though possibly apocryphal gladiatorial chant, Ave, Fagan, Imperator! Lecturi Te Salutant!' The Spokesman
Table of ContentsPreface; Introduction; 1. Seeking explanations; 2. A catalogue of cruelty; 3. Groups, crowds, and seats; 4. Crowd dynamics at arena spectacles; 5. Arenas of prejudice; 6. Gladiators and sports spectatorship; 7. The attractions of violent spectacle; Conclusion; Appendix; Bibliography; Index.
