Sport and Spectacle in the Ancient World

"Sport and Spectacle in the Ancient World chronicles 2,000 years of organized sporting events and public exhibition in the ancient Mediterranean. Using the evidence of art history and archaeology, as well as more traditional literary evidence, this volume uses the perspectives of social history and anthropology to examine the history, nature, and meaning of organized athletic events, combat sports, chariot races, beast fights, and gladiator competitions." "Examining issues of violence, professionalism, class, gender, and eroticism, this accessible and up-to-date volume presents a vivid and thorough introduction of sport and spectacle in the ancient world."--Jacket.