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The Thraex (pl.: Thraeces), or Thracian, was a type of Roman gladiator armed in Thracian style. His equipment included a parmula, a small shield (about 60 × 65 cm) that might be rectangular, square or circular; and a sica, a short sword with a curved blade like a small version of the Dacian falx), intended to maim an opponent's unarmoured back. His other armour included greaves, a protective belt above a loincloth, and a helmet with a side plume, visor and high crest.

Fighting style and techniques

A passage in Petronius indicates that "Thracian" was a style of gladiatorial fighting taught in training schools. An inscription records a doctor thraecum, a teacher of would-be Thracians.

See also

• List of Roman gladiator types
• Spartacus
• Ludus Dacicus

References

1. Carter 2006, p. 104, citing Satyricon 45.12.
2. Carter 2006, p. 104.

Sources

• Carter, M. J. (2006). "Gladiatorial Combat: The Rules of Engagement". Classical Journal. 102 (2): 97–114. JSTOR 30038038.

• Bronze figurine of a gladiator - British Museum
• Terracotta figurine of 2 gladiators - British Museum
• E. Köhne and C. Ewigleben (eds.). Gladiators and Caesars: The Power of Spectacles in Ancient Rome. London: The British Museum Press, 2000.

External links

• Fresco of a murmillo and Thracian fighting, found in Pompei in 2019

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