John Royle        visual imagination             3/1/11                  g block

In the series Spartacus, the main character, Spartacus tries to win back his freedom through vigorous training and endless hours of battle in order to win enough coin to buy his freedom, or win it. Through his story he encounters many brutal and deadly gladiators. At this point of his life its survival of the fittest, last man standing lives and all the rest die. In the still, ”Spartacus battle” the director, Steven S. DeKnight shows through the use of an in depth and detailed background, severe and focused expressions on the men’s faces, and through aggressive actions, the true sense of battle and pure combat.

          Through the detail in the background DeKnight is able to show pure excitement and a sense of feeling back to the gladiatorial days. In the background you can see many men wagering and cheering on their men. This was a common practice to gain money in the republic. Through the use of rustic and homely tunics the feeling of an old gladiators ring is made even more profound. In the background, the men in the full tunics are the owners of the two gladiators, as the men wield their swords their owners scream and holler, encouraging their man on. Also in the background are the chains and wood barriers and stairs, furthermore enforcing the look of a gruesome battle pit.

          Using distinct facial expressions and the use of blood, DeKnight was able to show feelings on engagement and anger. On Spartacus’ face a look of power and readiness envelop his face. Blood smeared down his cheek show the gruesomeness of the battle ensuing. On the other Gaul battling Spartacus the face of a previous contender who fell to this man is attached to his face and worn as a mask. This is a sign of triumph of previous accomplishments and to further intimidate his enemy. This is a way of saying,” I am the best, if you stand in my way this will happen to you”. Even the pseudo face/mask you can still see an expression of anger and ferociousness, as well as blood splattered across his face, showing the battle’s intensity and ferocity.

          Lastly through the two men’s stance and weapons you can clearly see that a fierce battle is happening. Spartacus is aiming his sights on a quick defense as the opposing gladiator brings down his sword. The attacking gladiator is side stepping to his left for another lethal blow opportunity. Spartacus is preparing his body for an on slot of attacking blows. He is in a powerful and athletic posture for a quick defense of whatever will come next. With his sword in the air preparing to block and his free hand close by in the event he needs to power back into a blow that needs reinforcement and also puts him in a good position to counter. The blood smeared on the bodies once again proves the seriousness and intensity of the battle.

          Through the use of an authentic looking background, blood smattered amongst the men and ground, and lastly the expressions and emotions on the men’s faces, DeKnight was able to show the true passion for conflict and combat. Through each of these elements deKnight was able to produce a very strong and influential still about the gladiatorial practices.