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Reprieve of a Gladiator
There were correct processes which
accompanied all the stages of the fights in the arenas of
Ancient Rome. The following table describes the language of
the arena and the gladiators with explanations and
descriptions of the various elements of the ceremonies and
procedures adopted in the arenas of the Ancient Romans.
These definitions will help to clarify the reprieve of a
gladiator:
Reprieve of a Gladiator - Glossary of Terms
Missio:
A Roman gladiator who acknowledged defeat could request the munerarius
(giver or 'editor' of the games) to stop the fight with
the repieve of the gladiator and send him alive (missus)
from the arena.
Sine
missione: Some contests were
designated ahead of time as sine missione (meaning
"without release," i.e. to the death). In these
circumstances for anyone to grant the reprieve of a
gladiator
Stans
missus:
A gladiator who had not fallen he
could be "sent away standing" (stans missus). The
decision as to whether a gladiator was given a reprieve
was in the hands of the spectators.
The Editor or emperor, followed
the demands of the 'mob' and not his own wishes
Pollice
verso:
Pollice verso meaning
"With thumb turned." This referred to the gesture
given by the 'mob' as to whether the reprieve of a
gladiator was in order or that they demanded his death.
Although it is assumed that Pollice verso
meaning
"With thumb turned." meant that the thumbs down
position although this could have meant that the thumb
was turned to the side. This signal and their shouting
indicated whether or not a gladiator should be given a
reprieve - granted missio.
Pugnare
ad digitum:
Pugnare ad digitum meaning
"To fight to the finger." The situation where a
gladiator submitted by raising his finger, or his hand, or whole
arm) to signal the munerarius to stop the fight, hoping for
a reprieve.
Liberatio:
Liberatio meaning the freeing of a gladiator who had served his time
Acta
Diurna: The Acta Diurna (meaning
Daily Acts) was the Roman daily paper which contained
news of gladiatorial contests. The popularity of a
gladiator would be helped by publicity which could lead
to a reprieve if necessary
Reprieve of a Gladiator
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