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Join Dan at Rome's Colosseum as he separates fact from fiction in the world of the gladiators. He traces the origins of gladiatorial fighting from funerary celebrations to elaborate spectacles in the arena, what it would take to make it to the top and what really happens when a gladiator loses the fight. With the help of expert historians, Dan explores the myths perpetuated in Hollywood movies, the role of the games in Roman political life and what you'd actually see if you got a ticket to the greatest show on earth.

This is episode 2 in our 4-part mini-series 'Gladiators'

Produced by Mariana Des Forges and edited by Dougal Patmore

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Gladiators: Myths vs Reality

Dan Snow's History Hit

Gladiators: Myths vs Reality