When you think about ancient gladiators, you likely have a certain vision that comes to mind: slaves forced to fight to the death for the entertainment of bloodthirsty Romans.But much of what we think we know about gladiators is actually wrong.Today on the show, Alexander Mariotti will separate the just-as-fascinating fact from popular-culture-derived fictio ... Show More
Oct 27
The New Dark Ages: The Death of Reading and the Dawn of the Post-Literate Society
You can't help but notice, in yourself and in others, how much less people are reading these days. When it comes to content consumption, we're often replacing articles and books with videos and, well, podcasts.My guest says that this shift is having consequences, not only for our ... Show More
55m 34s
Oct 20
The Lost Art of Mingling: How to Talk to Anyone, Anywhere
It's always been intimidating to enter a room where you don't know everyone, or anyone, and to initiate conversation with people at a wedding, holiday party, or work event. But it's never felt more potentially awkward and anxiety-generating than in an age dominated by screen-medi ... Show More
41m 52s
Oct 13
Brandon Flowers, Frontman of the Killers, on Family, Faith, and Becoming a Thrasher
If you’ve been following the Art of Manliness for a while, you know that I typically interview the authors of books on this podcast. But,if you’ve been following the Art of Manliness for a while, you’ll know why I had to make an exception for today’s guest.Brandon Flowers is my v ... Show More
39m 25s
Oct 2025
Gladiators: A Day in the Life
The Colosseum packed with roaring crowds, the sand stained with sweat and blood. But today, you’re not watching - you’re fighting. Welcome to a day in the life of a Roman gladiator.In this episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes is joined by historian and author Dr Harry Sidebott ... Show More
59m 56s
Feb 2018
EPISODE 30 Gladiators in Ancient Rome (Part 1): Are You Not Entertained?
"The stupid crowd is waiting eagerly
For the two valiant heroes to contend.
No farther than their noses can they see;
A spectacle is all they comprehend.”
— Ludovico Ariosto, Orlando Furioso, 30.27Ancient Romans were obsessed with gladiatorial combat. In this two-part series, we ... Show More
1h 48m