This podcast discusses the various activities that took place in the arenas of Ancient Rome, including violent spectacles, performances by famous singers, and religious messages for children. Lunchtime even included a communal meal for everyone in attendance.
The interest in why Rome enjoyed violent entertainment has crossed into the territory between psychology and history. While it may be rare to find someone who is a sadist in a group of people, sadistic tendencies might become more common in a crowd setting.
The idea of watching people, including women, be ripped apart by beasts was considered entertainment in ancient Rome and was even proposed during a dull moment in between acts at one of their games. This concept is very different from gladiator fights and is extremely disturbing to modern people.
The experience of modern warfare is dominated by long-range fighting, whereas in ancient infantry combat, the soldiers stood an arm's length from the enemy with spears, swords and bare hands. This caused a completely different experience for the warriors involved.
The podcast discusses the psychology of execution as a form of historical entertainment; how people may have found such spectacles appealing, and why viewers may have found themselves feeling sympathetic towards the executed.
A former wrestler reflects on the pure nature of wrestling as a sport that pits two individuals in a fair struggle. He also speaks about the importance of studying and learning from the best while also focusing on one's own potential for greatness.