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Types of Gladiators
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Dimachaerus
The Dimachaeri were close-combat gladiators, which specialized in wielding two blades (Usually a pair of siccae or gladii). Because of the difficulty of fighting with two blades, it is likely that Dimachaeri were more experienced in combat than the other gladiator classes. As a result, they were likely more respected and distinguished in the arena. They were often matched against Hoplomachi and it is assumed that they were also paired with other Dimachaeri. |
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Hoplomachus
The Hoplomachi were versatile gladiators that were inspired by Greek hoplites. A typical Hoplomachus equipped a spear, a small shield, a bronze helmet, and a short sword. The short sword was kept as a backup weapon in the event that the Hoplomachus would drop or break his spear in a match. Hoplomachi were often matched against the Murmillo class of gladiators. |
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Murmillo
The Murmillo gladiator class was a close-combat warrior that fought with a gladius and a large rectangular shield. The Murmillo typically wore a large helmet, which was slightly shaped like a fish (The word 'Murmillo' is based on the word 'murma', which is Greek for a type of fish). Murmillo were usually matched against the Thraex or Hoplomachus gladiatorial classes. |
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Retiarius
The Retiarii were most known for being equipped with a trident, a dagger, and a net. Retiarii were mainly pitted against the Secutor class, but were sometimes matched against the Murmillo class. |
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Secutor
The Secutor gladiator class was a close-combat warrior that was designed to battle the Retiarius class. The Secutor was very similar to the Murmillo class with the exception of the helmet, which was specifically designed to protect against the trident of a Retiarius. In addition, the helmet was formulated to be round and smooth so that the Retarius's net could not latch on to it. |
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Thraex
The Thraex gladiator class was a close-combat warrior that was equipped with a curved sword, a small shield, and a large rimmed helmet. They were usually matched with the Murmillo class or Hoplomachus class. |
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