Spartacus THE START

Spartacus’ Wife

She was a prophetess of Dionysus. She predicted that the Dionysus had bestowed great

power on Spartacus. They lived together in the ludus. She gave him divine lineage.

The Revolt

In 73 B.C.E. Spartacus and 200 other gladiators attempt to overthrow the guards and break out of the ludus.

They are betrayed and only 75 (including Spartacus’ wife) make it out.

They quickly make their way to Vesuvius. Why?

Fertile land Defensible position Rich villas Vesuvius is linked with Dionysus

The Army

Spartacus has a small army made up of: Germans Celts Thracians Gauls

He frees gladiators, farmers and shepherds. Not household slaves

He plunders the Pompeian countryside. What are his goals?

Rome Attacks

Gaius Claudius Glaber Praetor He is given 3,000 men to take care of Spartacus

His men are fresh recruits.

Think, Pair, Share

Why is a praetor sent? What does this tell us about how the Senate views this conflict? What does the number of men suggest?

Rome Attacks

Glaber traps Spartacus on the mountain by blocking the only path down. Spartacus’ men make ropes and sneak down the side of the mountain at

night. They attack the poorly built and lightly defended camp at night. The Romans are unable to form into ranks and are destroyed in the fight. The remainder of the Romans flee. Spartacus’s men plunder the camp.

What effect did this have on the Roman people?