One of the most feared weapons in the ancient world, the gladius was
lethal both on the battlefield and in the arena. Literary sources tell
of the terror it inspired, while archaeological evidence of wounds
inflicted is testament to its deadly effect. By pulling together strands
of literary, sculptural, and archaeological evidence, renowned expert
M.C. Bishop creates a narrative of the gladius' development, exploring
the way in which the shape of the short sword changed as soldiers and
gladiators evolved their fighting style.
Drawing together historical accounts, excavated artifacts, and the
results of the latest scientific analyses of the blades, this volume
reveals the development, technology, training and use of the gladius
hispaniensis: the sword that conquered the Mediterranean.