This book was a breath of fresh air; Spartacus was a hero a reader could admire. As usual, the author of Captivating History sets the scene, so the reader understands the situation and the time that Spartacus lived. The author got inside Spartacus and helped us see his motivations.
One of the most interesting parts was explaining the importance of slaves in Roman society. Yes, the enslaving of Rome's enemies is often mentioned, but this book mentions that slaves were even more pervasive than one might think. They were used as sex slaves, as well as miners, war (probably used as fodder, in front of the Roman warriors), farming, manufacturing, etc. In spite of the staggering numbers of slaves brought back from wars, slaves were also provided to Romans via pirates (preying on peoples of the Mediterranean Sea regions). Even the poorest Romans had a slave or two.
Although the story is ultimately tragic, Captivating History makes it a fascinating read. I couldn't put it down.
One of the most interesting parts was explaining the importance of slaves in Roman society. Yes, the enslaving of Rome's enemies is often mentioned, but this book mentions that slaves were even more pervasive than one might think. They were used as sex slaves, as well as miners, war (probably used as fodder, in front of the Roman warriors), farming, manufacturing, etc. In spite of the staggering numbers of slaves brought back from wars, slaves were also provided to Romans via pirates (preying on peoples of the Mediterranean Sea regions). Even the poorest Romans had a slave or two.
Although the story is ultimately tragic, Captivating History makes it a fascinating read. I couldn't put it down.
