> A few other thoughts. The arena that they are competing in is no
> doubt also a shrine (at least) to some god. This could add to the
Yeah, I like this. On the "bread and circuses" principle, it may be that the arena itself has a significant mythological "credibility". If it truly is a means of pacifying the citizens, then where is this rage and bloodlust directed? Perhaps the "hail caesar, we who are about..." oath is, in part, also swearing not to escape - all the hostage and so forth stuff might all occur in advance of actually entering the ring.
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