While many people may think of Kirk Douglas when Spartacus is mentioned, this ancient warrior is far more than a movie star. The leader of a major slave uprising against the Roman Republic, here are some heroic facts about Spartacus that may change your perception of this fearsome gladiator.
The Traveler
Very little is known about Spartacus’s early life. What we do know, however, is that Spartacus was a Thracian, which is a tribe located on the outskirts of the Roman Empire, near modern-day Bulgaria. He is believed to have been nomadic, moving from place to place throughout his childhood.
Capture
While the reasons for being enslaved heavily vary, you may be surprised to learn that Spartacus’s enslavement could have been attributed to cowardice. This is because he was caught trying to escape the army. As a result of desertion, a life of slavery awaited him.
Graduation
Interestingly, even back in ancient times, people went to school before going out into the working world, even as a gladiators. After being sold as a slave to a man named Lentulus Batiatus, Spartacus was enrolled in a gladiator school in Capua to learn the tricks of the trade.