THE RUDIARIUS BAND: THE LION WARRIOR OF THE ARENA
Rudiarius [ru-de-á-re-us]: A Roman gladiator who earned his freedom through triumph in battle. As the lion and the gladiator face off on the sand floor of the Roman Colosseum, there is no time to ponder their entwined fates—only to fight. Two noble animals, enslaved and caged, each battling their opponent for glory…and freedom.
RUDIARIUS BAND SYMBOLISM—THE LION RING
The Rudiarius Lion – The Lion is both the caged animal fighting for its freedom, and a symbol of the strength and sovereignty of the Roman Empire itself
Fascina – A three-pronged trident, thrown like a harpoon
Chains – The Lion gnaws at the chains that bind it, an animal that was never meant to be caged—much like the gladiator who must fight to earn his freedom and the title of Rudiarius
Shanks – The Gladiator's Gate, the VIP entrance to the Roman Colosseum
Under Gallery – Two brave gladiators square off in the arena beneath the Imperial Box. Will the Emperor give the thumbs up or thumbs down?
