History

Hoplomachus: A Gladiator of a Swiss Army Knife

"Hoplomachus" is derived from an ancient Greek term meaning "armored fighter," and is associated with the Greek hoplon shield, as they were meant to represent the Greek hoplites.

By Hrothsige Frithowulf
Fresco depicting a Hoplomachus fighting against a Murmillo, 3rd century AD.
Fresco depicting a Hoplomachus (left) fighting against a Murmillo, 3rd century AD.