Gladiators - From Ancient Sporting Heroes To Fashion Icons By Veronica Shoemyer At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

As we stare at the astounding architectural magnificence of the Roman Colosseum, it becomes easy to understand why the world salutes their ingenuity. However, the Roman fascination of gladiators still intrigues us. Gladiatorial games are known to have a complete package of martial exhibition and brutal entertainment, a deadly combination not fit for the weak soul. Nevertheless underneath this sadomasochistic tradition of combat fighting, there lies a legacy. Modern times have turned their combat accessory to everyday sophistication. From ancient Rome to the 21st century, gladiator sandals- have traveled a long way, only this time to the catwalk.

Death is a shadow every time a gladiator enters the arena. With his heavy set of protective shield and deadly weapon, he wears an open toed sandal with crisscrossed straps surrounding the foot, ankle and at times the up to his calf. He needs to be quicker than his opponent's blow so his sandals were made to be flexible and comfortable. On the other hand, constant movement and exposure to weaponry requires a durable and strong material, so leather was a practical choice.

Gladiator sandals of today share the same feature with that of ancient styles but of a different purpose. It's not a companion for a triumphant battle, but simply for aesthetics and everyday living. The modern take on gladiator sandals come in a wide array of styles, colors and materials. It can be flat, wedged or high heeled. And because of its versatility, it can be worn from a lazy Sunday afternoon to a formal function at night. Fashion designer Alexander McQueen was said to have pushed for the gladiator sandals' fashion comeback. Since then, it became a constant hit in runways, as well as among celebrities and demanded by women all over the world. Nevertheless, even if it has transformed a thousand fold, gladiator sandals have a distinct quality which makes it timeless. They are bold and assertive- a quality also exhibited by Roman gladiators in the arena.

A day in the life of a gladiator entails danger and struggle. For these great warriors, survival is the name of the game. However, they fight more than just mere survival. They kill other gladiators, wild animals and condemned criminals. The Roman Empire succumbs to the guilty pleasure of watching these men brawl to death. These are strong and fearless fighters come from different backgrounds; but outside the arena, there are no pleasant lives that wait for them. Apparently, the only sense of freedom they get either comes from a victorious fight or a glorious death.

The journey to gladiator territory can come in other ways. Criminals can be punished by being sent to the gladiator arena, games or school. On the other hand, free men can volunteer, be paid and take an absolute oath of submission to play the blood bath games.

In the modern times, they are the counterpart of professional athletes. However, most men who enter this profession are outcasts, dispatched soldiers and ex-convicts trying to redeem themselves and gain and fame and fortune the hard way. This breed is said to be the majority and strongest talent in the pool of gladiators.

You might wonder, but for gladiators there is still is gratification on this road to hell: Heroism and Admiration. They also epitomize the great Roman martial ethic, apart from their obvious strength and bravery that audiences love to witness. Romans may be cruel but their fascination for gladiators are celebrated in their works of art, as seen in paintings, sculptures, and mosaics. Gladiators, apart from inspiring a fashion trend are emblems of a great civilization.

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