AMUSEMENTS
Entertainment and amusements were provided by the goverment and formed an important part of the daily life of the Romans. The most popular amusments were the public spectacles, such as chariot races and gladiatorial combats. The empression "panem et circenses" (bread and circus games ) was a familar cry of the mob. Theatrical performances, mainly drama, dance, and pantomine, were presented in open-air theaters. a visit to the baths was also a favorite social pastime of the Romans.
The Colosseum, the gretaest amphitheater in Rome, was used chiefly for combats between gladiators, or between gladiators and wild beast. Schools for training gladiators were established in various parts of Italy. The greeting " Nos mortituri te salutamus " (We who are about to die salute you), was uttered by the gladiators before the contest. Perhaps the most famous gladiator in Roman history was a Thracian slave named Spatacus, who led a formidable uprising of slaves against the Roman state.
The Circus Maximus, the most famous areana in Rome, was used chiefly for chariot races. Other contests, such as wrestling and races were also held there.
The Campus Marticus, was large field set aside for athletic exercises and military trianing. Here the young men of Rome engaged in track and field events, such as running, jumping, wrestling, boing, archery, and disc throwing.
Thermae, or balneae, were elaborate baths corresponding to our country clubs. In addition to all varieties of bathing facilitie, the buildings contained gymnasiums, lounging rooms, libraries, and gardens. Perhaps the most famous were the Baths of Caracalla, where today operatic performances are staged.