09-26-2007, 10:22 PM
Patrik,
Interesting observations, if a little harsh.
However I think the single minded preoccupation with helmet types may be in error. Admittedly the Griffin appears to be associated with the Thraex, however there are numerous depictions of gladiators where it is difficult to define the style of gladiator as the equipment appears to be mismatched. IMHO it's the overall equipment and fighting style which defines a gladiator.
As for the Retiarius's trident; This is the pomp and from my understanding the gladiators were kitted in their finest but not necessarily their actual combat weapons. It think that this scene is a good depiction of this. What I would say is that trident wounds, suggest a much smaller 'fork', closer to the fishing tool rather than a 'pitch fork' (we'll need to change ours
)
I'm not sure why you think the gladiators would follow the legionary style of fighting ie; short stabs. All our research and experiences lead us to believe that 'telegraphing' blows would be used increase the crowds excitement. Although this was a deadly sport it was not necessarily about killing people, it was about entertainment. There is nothing entertaining about killing an opponent with a move that no-one can see.
Regardless of that I think Lance (the lanista, again not sure why you dispute this) is about to crack someone with his rudis anyway.
Graham, is the gladiatrix Susannah?
Interesting observations, if a little harsh.
However I think the single minded preoccupation with helmet types may be in error. Admittedly the Griffin appears to be associated with the Thraex, however there are numerous depictions of gladiators where it is difficult to define the style of gladiator as the equipment appears to be mismatched. IMHO it's the overall equipment and fighting style which defines a gladiator.
As for the Retiarius's trident; This is the pomp and from my understanding the gladiators were kitted in their finest but not necessarily their actual combat weapons. It think that this scene is a good depiction of this. What I would say is that trident wounds, suggest a much smaller 'fork', closer to the fishing tool rather than a 'pitch fork' (we'll need to change ours
)I'm not sure why you think the gladiators would follow the legionary style of fighting ie; short stabs. All our research and experiences lead us to believe that 'telegraphing' blows would be used increase the crowds excitement. Although this was a deadly sport it was not necessarily about killing people, it was about entertainment. There is nothing entertaining about killing an opponent with a move that no-one can see.
Regardless of that I think Lance (the lanista, again not sure why you dispute this) is about to crack someone with his rudis anyway.
Graham, is the gladiatrix Susannah?
Mark Downes/Mummius
Cent Gittus, COH X. LEG XX. VV. Deva Victrix
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"Don\'\'\'\'t threaten me with a dead fish!" - Withnail
Cent Gittus, COH X. LEG XX. VV. Deva Victrix
____________________________________________
"Don\'\'\'\'t threaten me with a dead fish!" - Withnail
