The basis for the new Peacock television series: The classic, in-depth account of the ancient Romans' obsession with the bloody and brutal gladiatorial games. "If you can imagine a superior American sports writer suddenly being transported back in time to cover the ancient Roman games, you will have some idea of the flavor and zest of [ Those About to Die ]," said the Los Angeles Times about Daniel P. Mannix's century-by-century--and nearly moment-by-moment--narrative of the Roman Empire's national institution. Putting ...
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The basis for the new Peacock television series: The classic, in-depth account of the ancient Romans' obsession with the bloody and brutal gladiatorial games. "If you can imagine a superior American sports writer suddenly being transported back in time to cover the ancient Roman games, you will have some idea of the flavor and zest of [ Those About to Die ]," said the Los Angeles Times about Daniel P. Mannix's century-by-century--and nearly moment-by-moment--narrative of the Roman Empire's national institution. Putting the games in the context of Rome's rise and dramatic fall, Mannix captures all the history, planning, and savage pageantry that went into creating the first spectator sports. The games began in 238 BC as nearly county fair-like entertainment, with trick riding, acrobats, trained animals, chariot racing, and athletic events. The contests then evolved into slave fights thanks to wealthy patricians Marcus and Decimus Brutus, who wanted to give their father an unforgettable funeral by reviving an old tradition. What the brothers wrought, Rome devoured, demanding even greater violence to satisfy the bloodlust of the crowd. Architectural wonders in themselves, massive arenas like Circus Maximus and the Colosseum were built, able to host sea battle reenactments on actual water. Successful gladiators found fame, fortune--and freedom. But as Rome begin to fall in the fifth century, so did the games, devolving into nothing more than pointless massacres. In the end, millions of humans and animals were sacrificed in barbaric displays. What were once ceremonies given in honor of gods met an inglorious fate, yet they still captivate the imagination of people today.
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Seller's Description:
Hardcover. NOT Ex-library. This item is in good condition. May show moderate signs of use. Book Jacket is damaged with tears. Until further notice, USPS Priority Mail only reliable option for Hawaii. Proceeds benefit the Pima County Public Library system, which serves Tucson and southern Arizona.
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Seller's Description:
Good. No Jacket. Book. 12mo-over 6¾-7¾" tall. The pages are tanned, but clean. The cover has some tanning and a few light soil spots. No spine creasing. 184 pages.
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Good. Size: 5x1x8; Clean Unmarked Copy with Strong Binding that has been carefully read & shows Minimal Signs of Use ~ Page edges are clean with sharp corners show light foxing with sharp corners, however there are five top corners with small folds ~ Cover is excellent having been protected by jacket ~ Jacket has good color with light rubbing wear.
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Fair. Biding has heavy warping. Great cover art. We take great pride in accurately describing the condition of our books and media, ship within 48 hours, and offer a 100% money back guarantee. Customers purchasing more than one item from us may be entitled to a shipping discount.