Roman Gladiator Analysis

During a survey in 1993 conducted in ancient Ephesus, also known as Turkey, a mass gladiator grave was found. This grave was discovered when the surveyors were looking for the Holy Processional Path between the Artemisian Temple and the City of Ephesus. Four gladiator tombstones were found nearby also supporting the theory that this was a gladiator grave. Gladiator fighting began in Ephesus approximately in 69BC and continued to gain in popularity throughout the years. It is known that thousands of Roman gladiators lost their lives in this extreme sport, however, this is the first documented evidence of remains of these athletes. It would later be discovered, through osteological and forensic analysis, that at least 68 human …show more content…
Until this unique and historical find, researchers only had ceramic, iconography, and ancient texts to study the mysterious gladiator. This article was directed toward fellow bioarchaeologists and students in the field of anthropology, especially for those that had previous knowledge of gladiator history. They did a great job supporting evidence that the gladiators had a certain type of diet, advanced medical care, different types of protective gear, and manner of death, although, prior knowledge of gladiator history would have been extremely beneficial. Supporting evidence was easily accomplished and could not be argued due to this being the first archaeological find of this type. Historically it was believed that the gladiators were fed a nutritious and well balanced diet due to the extreme physical activity these individuals were forced into. A vegetarian diet was supported after isotope testing and detailed studies of the teeth showed a high level of dental caries. Evidence of high levels of strontium were …show more content…
These articles covered the way professionals use certain types of techniques, tools, and technology to learn more about the remains they were working with. All three also discuss the importance of human rights and how they affect each and every. Kanz and Grossschmidt (2009), touches on the human rights aspect briefly, however, it is more prevalent in the other two articles. Kanz and Grossschmidt (2009) was more specific and technical due to the fact that this was a unique case being the first of its kind. The other two articles Blakely (2001) and Burn (1998) are more closely related in subject. These two articles talk about the history and importance of the culture of the people. They are trying to make everyone conscious of the importance of finding a voice for the remains but also the need to involve the community. Burn (1998) goes more in-depth in his article in the steps that are needed when working with bones. He also explains the importance of having an anthropologist working with the team during excavation. Anthropologist bring a sense of humanity to what might be a horrific experience. Blakeley (2001) describes the importance of having a bioarchaeologist working this case instead of the forensic anthropologist. The bioarchaeologist will look at the larger picture of what was going on. They will be able to understand the history, the social structure, and the