Spartacus in the Television Arena ― Essays on the Starz Series

In historical tellings and retellings of the story of Spartacus, the Thracian gladiator who led the slaves in a rebellion against the Roman oligarchy, Spartacus is often painted as a "noble if doomed avenger." In the Starz series Spartacus, however, he is portrayed much differently. The powerful and righteous archetype of the Gladiator plays a heavy role in their telling of the story. This collection of essays explores the topic of masculinity in Spartacus. The contributors address topics such as gender and sexuality, swords as phallic representations, and the nature of the gladiator's life. Also addressed is the complex relationship between fiction and history in television narrative. Annotation c2015 Ringgold, Inc., Portland, OR (protoview.com)

Michael G. Cornelius is an award-winning novelist and the author or editor of numerous scholarly works. He is the chair of English and Communications at Wilson College in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.