Tread Perilously -- Spartacus: Sacramentum Gladiatorum

Tread Perilously's summer Patreon request month continues with an episode of Spartacus called "Sacramentum Gladiatorum." When the Thracian known to the Romans as Spartacus wakes up after his failed execution, he discovers he has been sold to Quintus Lentulus Batiatus. The Lanista plans to train him as a gladiator in the hopes of currying the favor of Gaius Claudius Glaber. As it turns out, he needs a new patron to cover his expenses as the drought continues to ravage the area. Glaber, for his part, wants Spartacus to die slowly while bleeding in the arena. Will the three men get anything they want? Erik can't help but notice the comic book nature of the series. It leads to a lot of digressions. The sex and violence Spartacus is known for also quickly makes itself apparent. John Hannah, Manu Bennett, Peter Mensah, and Lucy Lawless prove to be MVPs. Star Andy Whitfield also demonstrates why he had a following before his untimely passing. A discussion of the Stanley Kubrick film also occurs. Justin compares gladiators to professional wrestlers -- and he has the receipts! He also goes into history nerd mode. Erik joins him. The show's style comes in for criticism even as Erik thinks there is a place for it. Latin continues to be a speed bump and The Cleopatra Scale ends up in service a surprising amount.