Young Spartacus
Ó
NT Film Script Services 1995
It has been noticed that most high school students doing Drama are girls, so This comedy is written especially for boys in order to attract them to the subject. (A little positive discrimination.)
The play involves fight scenes, and has its fair share of gory bits, but it is not intended to be a horror story. It is intended that it be treated as a farce, somewhat in the styles of Seinfeld, or Monty Python.
It reminds us that the ancient Roman civilization was very bloodthirsty. The sanctity of a boy slave's life was not respected. Agricultural slaves, and gladiatorial slaves, were harshly treated. Spartacus was 12 when he entered the gladiator school. The Romans chose to train youngsters at this age so they would be skilled in the arena. They bet on the results, so left little to chance. Recent archaeological digs indicate some boys were trained as gladiators from a younger age.
When introducing the play to students, it is timely to discuss how many boys are treated in the modern world. Boy Soldiers die in combat in Africa and SE Asia. Street children are executed in S. America. Consider Mu-Thai, the Thai system of boxing. Boys start training at 6 or 7 years of age.
At the end of the Slaves Revolt in 73BC, The Romans crucified 6000 surviving male slaves over the age of ten along the Apian way. They sold the women, girls, and younger boys back into slavery.
Spartacus was not crucified. He died in the battle. Very little is known about him, but a fictional account describes him as a Thracian soldier in the Roman army who was sold into slavery. This is not believed by modern scholars. For one thing, why would a Thracian be called "Spartacus"? Why would a Roman Soldier be sold as a slave? How would such a person gain the confidence of the revolting gladiators? And so on. It is believed now, that Spartacus was trained as a professional gladiator from his early childhood.
The play opens with LUCIUS, a soldier, who acts as the commentator. He was once employed to train the young gladiators. He knew Spartacus when the boy was just a lad learning to fight.
CAST
LUCIUS The commentator. Roman Soldier and Tutor for the gladiator school. (78)
CANIS Personal slave to Lucius. Former gladiator. His tongue is cut out during the play, so he cannot talk.(13)
SPARTACUS Young gladiatorial slave - about 12 years old. Small, but wiry and cheeky.(35)
GLADIATORS Bostar and Certis are bigger boys, but all the rest should be about the same size if possible. Casting can be variable, but it is more effective visually to have more than less gladiators. They act as a movement chorus, doing drill, fighting, etc.(11)
ALBINUS A blonde haired slave boy from Northern Europe. About 12 years old.(1)
BOSTAR A thickset 14 year old.(34)
CROTO A Moorish slave. About 12.(4)
CERTIS A slow witted boy about 14.(13)
DEMETRIUS about 13 (5)
GALLO about 13 (18)
HOSTUS about 13 (6)
FELICIA A slave girl, about 14, who prepares food, etc for the young gladiators. (5)
MARCUS Soldiers who help Lucius with the young gladiators. (24) (19)
LENTULUS
SEXTUS Owner of the gladiator school. (7)
DRUSULA Wife to Sextus. A cruel woman. (19)
The Set
Costumes
Basic Roman garb for civilians - togas, etc. Roman armor for Lucius and the soldiers. The gladiators wear rough hemp tunics, but when in practice wear appropriate gladiator helmets, armor, and weapons.
(For an avant-garde look, the civilians could wear evening dress, the soldiers combat fatigues, and the gladiators black jeans and skivvies.)
PROPS
Gladiators' wooden weapons, staves Shields & helmets, Slop-kitchen utensils & bowls, Roman Soldiers' swords, shields & weapons, Heavy steel manacle sets for the gladiators & Chains neck to wall length. Wall shelves, Table & 2 chairs.
SOUND
During the play, the clink of chains, the sounds of metal against metal, and the clang of weapons punctuate the dialogue. It is important to build up this noisy atmosphere. Some parts require dead silence.
The Play:
"Young Spartacus"
Ó
byNT Film Script Services
Front of Curtain
Somewhere along a road leading to Rome. It is after the Slaves Revolt in 73 BC. The surviving slaves are being crucified.
SFX Tortured screams are heard off.
Lucius, a soldier, enters with Canis his personal slave who carries a wooden bucket of water in his left hand. Lucius throws down a large mallet and we see his right arm is covered with blood.
LUCIUS What a task! What a task! It's enough to put anyone off crucifixions for life. I used to enjoy them, but six thousand...
It's too much.
Canis has placed the bucket on the floor. He brings a cloth across and begins to wash Lucius' arms. Then he carefully sponges the soldier's breast plate, shield, and helmet. laying the latter carefully on the floor.
Lucius hardly acknowledges this, but turns himself about as the slave attends to him. He continues to discourse all the time.
LUCIUS Aren't you lucky, Canis. If you had joined the rebellion, you would be up there on a cross with them.
He grasps a thong attached to something hanging around the boy's neck. It looks like a piece of leather. It is Canis' tongue, dried and hard. Lucius holds it up.
LUCIUS But without your tongue, you couldn't implore the gods to save you.
CANIS (whines in discomfort)
LUCIUS Argh!(Releases Canis and indicates bucket.) Get rid of that.
Canis exits down left with bucket.
Slaves. You can't trust them. Can't live without them.
They are so stupid Hear that one out there? "Dig the hole for your cross two cubits deep," I tell him. But does he listen? Sulks. "Do you want it to fall over so you land on your silly face?" I ask. He sulks. No good threatening him with my gladius (Draws his short sword out, but sheaths it again.) Finally, I promised him that if he dug the hole properly, I would make it quick for him.
SFX Screaming outside stops.
LUCIUS (Hand to ear. Then puts his thumb up. And winks.)
And I'm as good as my word.
Lucius remains a commentator to the audience, even as he takes part in the play. He moves onto the stage area, down right, as the Young gladiators are marched into their holding room at the start of Scene 1.
ACT 1 Scene
1CURTAIN
Open on the Boys' Holding Cell of Padua Gladiator's School. It is a large living Area - a plain room, with a bar-locked door on the rear wall Back Right. 9 Chains hang on the back wall. On the Left wall is a wide door which leads to the School Arena. Staves, shields, and wooden swords are hung on hooks. The Right wall contains shelves for food and eating utensils, and there is a wooden table and 2 plain wooden chairs Down Right.
We hear the tramping sound of marching feet outside. The bellowing voice of a Roman Soldier can be heard off:
MARCUS Right, you lot. Look lively. When you get inside, line up straight.
LUCIUS I can remember the first time I set eyes on Spartacus. He was just a boy.
The young gladiators enter under the control of Bostar, an older boy about 14 wearing leather collar and wrist straps. The younger boys wear chained steel wrist manacles, collars and slave tunics. They reach the centre of the stage and line up facing Lucius who has moved down left.
Bostar takes his place centre front and salutes.
BOSTAR Hail Lucius. We who are about to die salute you.
The gladiators do not salute but call out in unison:
GLADIATORS Hail Lucius. We who are about to die salute you.
Marcus and Lentulus enter. They salute Lucius, who salutes back. He ignores the slaves.
LUCIUS Report!
LENTULUS Recruits for Padua Gladiator School - Sir!
MARCUS Sextus bought these at the slave auction this morning.
Lucius walks down the line inspecting the boys carefully. He checks their teeth and feels their muscles.
LUCIUS Hmm. Not bad. How much did he pay for them?
MARCUS Too much, if you ask me. By the way - he did say - that you are not to waste them.
Lucius draws his gladius and pretends to cut Bostar's throat from behind. Bostar is nervous, but stands rock still. Only the tremble of his hand betrays him.
LUCIUS I understand. I can train them, but I can not waste them. (laughs)
He releases Bostar, and sheaths his gladius. Bostar reacts with nervous relief.
Lucius turns to address the boys.
LUCIUS Train well, work hard, and you shall be well rewarded. Secure them, Bostar. Make sure they are fed and watered.
He turns to Lentulus.
LUCIUS Marcus, Lentulus, Check that they are secured before you leave. Then join me for an afternoon's feast. Checking in new slaves is thirsty work.
He exits.
Bostar signals the boys to line up against the chain wall. They are attached via their collars, and sit down with crossed legs. Marcus checks them carefully.
MARCUS Check this one carefully, Bostar. His name is Spartacus, and he always runs away.
He hoists Spartacus to his feet by pulling on the chain. Turns him round to lift his tunic. Displays the scars on the slave's back.
LENTULUS With a back like that, I'd run away too.
BOSTAR I shall be careful, Sir.
MARCUS You'll be more than that. You have a trusted place here, Bostar. If he runs away again, I will see that you are a torch at the next games.
Bostar drops to a kneeling position in front of Marcus. He stretches his arms forward, and places his face on the floor.
BOSTAR He shall not escape, Sir. I'll make sure of that.
Marcus places his foot casually on top of Bostar's head.
MARCUS I'm sure you will, Bostar. Your fear of me will make you obedient, if nothing else.
He kicks Bostar over and leaves, followed by Lentulus. The door is closed, and there is the sound of it being barred shut outside. Bostar remains frozen on the floor.
There is a long silence.
Spartacus adjusts his tunic and turns round to face Bostar. He sits and pokes at the boy with his hands.
SPARTACUS What is a torch?
BOSTAR Pray to the gods that you never find out for yourself.
They tie you to the top of a pole. Upside down, and cover you with tar.
When they set you alight, you burn slowly - feet first. It can take two hours or more to die.
The more you scream, the more the crowd loves it.
There is another long silence. Spartacus sits back away from Bostar.
SPARTACUS (swallows) Sorry I asked.
DEMETRIUS The soldiers said that you'd feed and water us ...
Bostar stands up and moves towards the shelves down right. He starts to gather bowls and puts them into a pile. He reaches into the cupboard and brings out a wooden bucket of water.
BOSTAR Food. Water. Yes, I can do that.
GALLO How is it that you aren't chained up?
CANIS They trust him. He's one of them, as anyone can see.
BOSTAR Watch your tongue, slave. I'm no Roman. I am a Gaul, and proud of it.
CANIS So why are you free?
BOSTAR Free! (Points to the door.) Do I look free to you?
He comes out from behind the table and stands hands on hips looking at them.
BOSTAR I will tell you all something.
Do what you are told.
Never speak to them unless they ask you a question. Never look them in the eyes. Bow always. Grovel often. In time, they will unchain your hands. Maybe, if you are very good to them, they will unchain you from the wall.
But they will NEVER take the chains off your heart.
He hands each boy a bowl of water to drink -
except Canis.
Then he hands out a lump of bread to each -
except Canis.
CANIS What about me? What did I do?
BOSTAR Lesson number one, Canis the Dog. Lesson number one.
Canis looks to his companions, but they have drunk their water and consumed the bread. Bostar puts bread and water just out of Canis' reach. Canis strikes at it with his feet, but it is just too far. Bostar stands back with folded arms.
BOSTAR Can you work out lesson number two, I wonder?
Canis looks up at him defeated.
CANIS Please may I have the food and water, Bostar.
BOSTAR I do believe you are close.
Canis adopts the grovel position.
Certis (who is next to him)grasps Canis by the chain and lifts him up from the floor.
CERTIS (To Bostar) Hey. Feed him. He asked nicely.
BOSTAR All right, Certis. I was just having a bit of fun. Just fun.
He hands Canis the water bowl and bread.
CERTIS Fun. I like fun. I'm going to ask if I can practise gladiating with you.
SPARTACUS Hey, stop it! Everyone - stop quarrelling.
Bostar, are you one of us, or are you Roman?
BOSTAR I look after myself, Spartacus. I told you that. I am pretty good with the Gladius. If I can win in the arena, I may get my freedom.
GALLO You have got to go into the arena and fight those gladiators? That is tough.
HOSTUS No, Gallo. He has got to go into the arena and fight us. That is what I call tough.
GALLO Us!??
CROTO Daylight dawns.
ALBINUS Finally, the boy understands.
GALLO (Who is nest to Spartacus) But I can't fight. I'm hopeless. I'll be killed.
BOSTAR Hey, Gallo. That is why I am here- to train you. I'm here to stop you being killed.
This is the Gladiator School of Padua. The best. Our graduates are famous through all the world. Our motto is "Have a great day at the Arena. Let us take you out."
He collects all the bowls and puts them back on the shelves.
SPARTACUS So now what do we do?
BOSTAR If you're wise, you'll rest. Tomorrow you will start training.
It will be a busy day.
END ACT 1 - Scene 1
Front of Curtain
LUCIUS I almost hesitate to tell you all what happened next. Where is that boy? He should have my tea ready by now.
Canis enters with a basket. He puts it down in front of the squatting Lucius.
LUCIUS Ah. Here he is. What have we got? Honeyed mice, grapes, apples, and lots of wine. Beer from Egypt.
Tucks in while Canis watches. Lucius throws him a mouse, which Canis eats.
See, we Romans can generous, if we're not - pushed.
ACT 1 Scene 2
Lentulus is overseeing the boys as they train with weights and other strength building activities. Some are lifting concrete blocks. Others are doing pushups and situps. The chains at the back of the wall hang downwards - unused except for one occupant - Spartacus. He stands manacled behind watching the others as they perform.
LENTULUS Well done. You've all worked hard. Today, I've got a surprise for you. A dead Rabbit. There's nothing like a bit of meat to put fire in the belly.
The boys leave off their training and swarm over to the table where Felicia, a slave girl, ladles out the gruel, bread, and pieces of rabbit to the boys.
BOSTAR Come on. Line up, line up. You all know that.
While the boys are at the table being organized, Lentulus wanders over to Spartacus.
LENTULUS Hungry yet? Thirsty?
SPARTACUS I'm not going to kill anyone. I'll never be a gladiator.
LENTULUS You'd rather be a torch?
SPARTACUS You can whip me, starve me, perish me, even burn me - but I'm not playing your game. I would rather die.
LENTULUS I do believe you would.
He grabs Spartacus by the chin and holds his head so they look at each other eye to eye. Spartacus makes a noise with his mouth and prepares to spit in the Roman's face. All the boys have stopped eating and watch tensely.
LENTULUS Don't even think of it, Spartacus. I'll not be goaded into gutting you. Sextus paid good money for your hide. He believes that you will make a good gladiator - to his profit.
I'll have Gallo whipped to an inch of his life in your place.
GALLO No! Spartacus! Don't let him!
LENTULUS Is he your little friend?
Spartacus closes his mouth and swallows.
LENTULUS An eloquent answer.
There's no place for friendship in the arena, Spartacus. I'll prove it to you.
He points at Gallo and beckons him forward. Gallo puts his bowl on the table and comes forward quickly, but nervously.
LENTULUS Certis. You will do.
Lentulus grabs two staves from the armory wall. He hands one to each Gallo and Certis.
LENTULUS Certis, break Gallo's legs. Gallo, you may defend yourself. Certis, if you fail, I will break yours.
Lentulus moves down left to clear the area. Certis looks surprised and his attention is on Lentulus, but Gallo doesn't wait. He bops Certis on top of the head with a sudden, quick blow. Certis drops to the floor, unconscious.
Lentulus bursts out into laughter. He doubles up in mirth.
LENTULUS Well done! Well done, Gallo! What a little champ! How far you've come in such a short time.
GALLO Creamed him in one.
SPARTACUS Gallo! No!
GALLO Sorry, Spartacus. I didn't want to hurt Certis. But it was him or me.
LENTULUS And that's the whole point, Spartacus. Him, or me. You Greeks might read philosophy, ethics, and logic. When it comes to the pinch, it's dog eats dog.
CANIS You Romans should know.
LENTULUS What was that?
CANIS (Suddenly humble)I mean - you Romans know all about being very good at fighting.
Lentulus picks up the staff and belts Canis across the shoulders. Canis drops to the floor. Lentulus breathes heavily with suppressed anger. He walks from the room and shuts the door behind him, from outside we hear the sound of the bars being dropped to lock the door.
Bostar and Hostus tend to Canis.
BOSTAR You fool, Canis. I've told you - Watch your tongue. Keep it still inside your mouth.
Felicia runs across to Spartacus with some bread and a bowl of water Gallo Demetrius and Albinus tend to Certis.
FELICIA This is all your fault, Spartacus. You know Lentulus has to get results. Why do you stir him so?
SPARTACUS Because he's ripe for stirring. Lucius is too clever to be fooled. I'll work for him, or even Marcus.
That will make Lentulus look like a fool. Sextus will get rid of him. He'll be transferred to the German Frontier.
CERTIS Oh my aching head! I'll get you back, you little rat! OOOH!
He lies back and groans.
GALLO I didn't mean it, Certis. Really, I didn't.
Certis stands groggily and grabs one of the staves from the floor. Then he advances on Gallo. The boys, including Bostar, pounce on Certis and drag him down before he can do any damage.
CERTIS Get off! Get off!
BOSTAR You settle down and we'll get off. Gallo didn't mean it. You know that. He had to clobber you one.
HOSTUS Hey, guys, Canis is really sick. Lentulus whacked him across the neck.
They gather round and lift Canis onto the table. He groans, and they turn him onto his side. There is a noise without, and the door opens. Lentulus, Marcus, and Lucius enter. Felicia is bathing his neck with a damp cloth.
LENTULUS He insulted me, and he insulted the whole of Rome.
FELICIA He's dying!
LUCIUS Stand aside. Move back, all of you.
The slaves move back, Marcus shuts the door, Lentulus and Lucius examine Canis.
LENTULUS I didn't hit him very hard.
LUCIUS I trust Sextus will accept your explanations, Lentulus. Don't worry. He'll live. His neck will be sore for a week, but he will live.
Take the rest of the afternoon off, soldier. Cool yourself. I shall train the little gladiators. Marcus and I will have this little lot well in hand ready for you to try them again tomorrow.
LENTULUS (Salutes) Sir!
He leaves via the back door.
Marcus and Lucius look at each other. Lucius gives a sigh.
MARCUS He's young, Sir.
LUCIUS He's a Roman Soldier. He should know what an order is. No wastage.
Looks across at Spartacus
And why is that little fly stuck to the wall?
MARCUS Shall I release him?
LUCIUS He'll learn nothing there. Bostar. How long has Spartacus been chained on the wall?
BOSTAR Two days, Sir - without food or water. But he would not obey ...
LUCIUS Don't tell me. I can guess. Little leather back does not heed the whip or chain.
He puts his hands behind his back and walks over to Spartacus.
LUCIUS Well.
What does it take to make you train?
SPARTACUS (looking down) Chickens.
Wine. Onions. Fruit. A little oil. Bread.
LUCIUS HOW DARE YOU BARGAIN WITH ME!
Spartacus hangs his head as he replies
SPARTACUS You did ask.
And I will train with you.
LUCIUS You'll train with me?
SPARTACUS They say that you are very good with the gladius. The best in Rome.
LUCIUS (understands)If I train you, you'll give up this nonsense?
SPARTACUS Yes. If you teach me properly. I don't want to die in the arena.
LUCIUS Done. I will make a gladiator of you that the whole world will know.
He unchains Spartacus, who kneels in front of him.
Get up, boy. I can't undo your manacles if you are down there.
Spartacus stands to be released. Lucius throws a staff at him, and takes the other in both hands. They advance on each other.
LUCIUS Defend yourself, Spartacus!
They fight, while the rest of the gladiators, Felicia, and Marcus stand around to watch.
CURTAIN
End ACT 1 Scene 2
Front of Curtain
LUCIUS
I thought that crack you made about the dogs was very witty, Canis.Canis grins and nods his head. Lucius smacks him across the ear.
I'm glad your tongue dried out properly. I wasn't sure whether to use salt, smoke, or oak-bark. Oak bark did the job. Plenty of Tannin.
I like what happened next. Things got distinctly better for young Spartacus - before they got a lot worse.
ACT 2 Scene 1
Curtain
Life in the Young Gladiators' quarters has taken a distinctly better turn. Spartacus is now "King of the kids" as it were. He's managed to squeeze himself and Felicia into wide chair. They sit eating a chicken in between, Felicia feeds him grapes. Certis and Bostar sit back to back in the gladiator circle passing a wine jug back and forward. Demetrius, Gallo, Croto, and Hostus are seated around the table throwing dice. Canis and Albinus are having a friendly chat. Canis's neck is wrapped in a white bandage.
The door swings open. Lentulus enters. The noise stops, and everyone is very still.
LENTULUS So, you little rats. You think you got one up on me. I've just had the word from Sextus. He's arranged for me to get a field commission in Northern Gaul. At last, I make Captain. After two years of service, I may even become a Centurion.
So I bid you all - farewell.
Spartacus - I hear that Lucius has taken you under his wing. You're to learn how to wield the Gladius.
Take care, Boy. It's a double edged sword.
Canis - take my advice. Watch your tongue. It may well eat you.
He exits with a wave of his hand, and a few parting words.
Feast on. Get as potted as you like. Tomorrow, Lucius will want fifteen hours of hard work out of you - drunk or sober. And he believes that nothing sobers a gladiator as quickly as a hundred lashes.
His words have put a real dampener on things. They sigh and groan as they break the party up.
FELICIA He's right. You all have to train tomorrow. If you're not up to it, that's the last feast we'll have.
That's how his mind works. He gives you his half of the bargain, and if you don't give him yours, end of story. Deal's off.
CERTIS Things have only just got started. And I haven't killed Gallo yet.
BOSTAR Oh, forget Gallo, Certis. We told you - he didn't mean it. We just want to finish the bottle, Spartacus.
SPARTACUS Felicia is right. We've had a lot of fun, and good food. If we do things right, we'll get some more of the same. I say we should call it a night.
CERTIS And who are you to say anything, "Leatherback".
BOSTAR It's my job to tell everyone when to get to bed, Spartan.
CANIS I've got a thumping headache. I'm turning in.
He goes to his chain position and lies on his sack.
ALBINUS Me too, I guess.
DEMETRIUS And me.
The rest start to follow, leaving Spartacus and Bostar staring each other out across the circle.
BOSTAR Any time. You want to challenge me? Anytime.
SPARTACUS You're in the pot, Bostar. I don't want to challenge you. Not tonight. I'm too tired.
FELICIA So am I. Marcus will be down soon to lock you all in. If you're all asleep, he won't bother with the chains.
She leaves by the door.
BOSTAR What in Hades. It doesn't matter. You got us a good feed, good wine. You're right. Why kill it off.
Good night, Spartan.
He stumbles over to his chain position, lays out his sack and collapses onto it.
Spartacus walks over to his with exaggerated dignity, and collapses.
A few moments later, the door opens. Lucius and Marcus enter. Lucius puts his finger to his lips, indicating silence. Marcus looks around and shakes his head. He whispers to Lucius:
MARCUS They look so peaceful when asleep. So young, so innocent. Who could believe they will become - the deadliest of men? Ferocious killers.
Even as boys they must be chained lest they turn on their masters.
LUCIUS Not tonight. The little tigers sleep in fatted deep. Tomorrow we shall raise their fighting spirit That they shall growl and spit fire at the very Sun and Moon. Come. Close and lock fast the door.
They exit, and we hear the shutter on the cell door being lowered.
Curtain
End ACT 2 Scene 1
Front Curtain
Lucius enters with Canis They carry wooden swords.
LUCIUS Now for a lesson on the use of the Gladius. Did you get the one about the double edged sword? Good. I hate a slow audience.
He thrusts at Canis, who dodges and parries.
LUCIUS Nice parry there, Canis. Well done. You see, People, there are three things you can do with a sword.
Canis shakes his head and holds up 6 fingers
LUCIUS Four? Five? Six?!! Look - you can thrust, slash, and block. Those are the basic moves.
Canis draws and sheathes his wooden sword, then pulls it out again.
Right. You can put your sword in and out, in and out. We all know that.
Even with your tongue cut out, you can still manage to be cheeky.
Canis throws his sword down and kicks it.
And you can throw it away. I understand your sentiments, but it's a very bad move. Especially around us Romans.
He chases after Canis, who picks up his sword as he runs off stage, followed by Lucius.
CURTAIN
ACT 2 Scene 2
The young gladiators are in an extended line across the middle of the stage. Lucius stands in front of them, facing the audience, and they copy his moves. It is a choreography piece.
LUCIUS Unsheathe! Guard! Slash Slash! Thrust! Block! Block! Thrust! Slash! Slash! Block! Thrust! Guard!
GLADIATORS Unsheathe! Guard! Slash Slash! Thrust! Block! Block! Thrust! Slash! Slash! Block! Thrust! Guard!
The sword dance is choreographed to percussion of sword against sword & shield:
1 The gladiators do a rhythmic percussion drill in extended line.
2. Every second gladiator steps forward. Spartacus teams up with Lucius for the Pairs drill.
3. Lucius drops out and the gladiators split into groups of three.
4. In extended line they once more perform their "kata" sword drill, and come to a sudden stop with Guard! Sheathe!
GLADIATORS Slash Slash! Thrust! Block! Block! Thrust! Slash! Slash! Block! Thrust! Guard! Sheathe!
LUCIUS Rest! Phew, that's a fine exercise.
Always remember to thrust! It's the thrust that kills. Oh, you can slash him and draw a little blood, but you only have to get your gladius a finger deep into his torso, twist, and he's gone.
You know it, and he knows it. The crowd doesn't have to vote. He is dead!
He stands facing them and puts both hands out as if to get a response.
GLADIATORS Hail Lucius! We who are about to die salute you!
LUCIUS Very good. Very well done.
Tell me, Bostar. How do we die in the arena?
BOSTAR Why, great Centurion, everyone knows that. We die to please the crowd.
Lucius thrusts his sword at Bostar, who catches it between his arm and chest so it sticks out. He spins about in a circle, waving his arms and screaming. Then he drops to the ground and thrashes about, kicking his feet up and down.
BOSTAR AAArrrrgh! (dies).
LUCIUS More kicking. More kicking. The crowd doesn't come here to eat meats. They want to see you die.
Bostar obliges by more kicking and screaming.
LUCIUS Good! Good! Now a death rattle. A loud death rattle!
Bostar gets a mouth full of spittle and gargles out a death rattle, then lies still after one or two leg-jerks.
LUCIUS Yes! That is an excellent death!
Resume your place, Bostar.
Bostar gets up, with a deep bow, hands the wooden sword to Lucius and resumes his spot in line.
The boys clap spontaneously.
LUCIUS I'm glad you all appreciate his performance.
You'll all get a chance to do it for real one day.
The gladiators clapping slows to a s t o p.
LUCIUS Most of you
Unless you pay attention.
Now watch here!
Spartacus! Guard yourself!
Spartacus draws his sword to the guard position as Lucius comes up With his in a slashing movement strikes him across the chest.
Got you!
Spartacus drops, winded.
SPARTACUS That's not fair! You didn't guard! You drew and hit me.
LUCIUS FAIR!
I would have thought you of all people would know about UNFAIR.
I drew, and I slew.
When you go out into the arena, the only thing you need to know is that the other person in there with you is your enemy.
If you don't kill him, he'll certainly kill you.
There is a noise at the door. Marcus enters and stands at attention, with the door open. Sextus enters with Drusula. They are attended by Felicia dressed in white with flowers in her hair.
LUCIUS All Hail Sextus Otiphas, Supreme Governor of Padua!
GLADIATORS (Saluting) Hail Sextus! We who are about to die salute you!
LUCIUS All Hail Lady Drusula. Wife of Sextus Otiphas, Supreme Governor of Padua!
GLADIATORS Hail Lady Drusula! We who are about to die salute you!
DRUSULA Oh, how lovely!
SEXTUS About to die? I hope not. Not after what I paid. They are a long term investment. These will be the most thoroughly trained gladiators in the whole Roman Republic. Nobody will be able to stand against them. I'll make a fortune.
DRUSULA Boys toys. I hope you make a fortune, dear husband. You certainly spent one.
SEXTUS Worth every dinar.
DRUSULA So let us see. We'll sit here, and Lucius will arrange a small demonstration.
Felicia brings a chair down right for Lady Drusula to sit on. Bostar brings the other chair over for Sextus. Then he stands behind the two Romans with Felicia in a serving position. Marcus and Lucius take up station at the rear. It is a tableaux audience. (Bostar has seen this sort of thing before. He's out of the way.
DRUSULA (Points to Albinus and Croto) Those two will do. The rest of you line up against the wall.
The boys line up against the back wall.
Chain them.
Marcus and Lucius move behind the boys attaching them to the neck chains. It is quickly done.
SEXTUS My dear, is this a good idea?
DRUSULA Marcus, and Lucius, give them your swords. (They hesitate and she hisses quietly at them:) You are not frightened of two small boys, I hope.
The soldiers hand their steel swords to Croto and Albinus. The two boys swallow nervously and look at each other.
LUCIUS Right - do it properly. You know how to salute the lady. Do so.
CR. & ALB. Hail Lady Drusula. We who are about to die, salute you.
LUCIUS Louder, boys. Make it louder!
CR. & ALB. HAIL LADY DRUSULA! WE WHO ARE ABOUT TO DIE SALUTE YOU!
DRUSULA Now kill each other!
LUCIUS FIGHT, Boys. Like I showed you. Fight!
SEXTUS A good slash or a knockout will do!
The boys set to with vigor, slashing, blocking, parrying, and thrusting. But neither of them seems keen on killing the other.
LUCIUS Remember what Bostar showed you. Die!
The boys move into a position so Drusula cannot easily see what is happening. Her view of Croto is blocked. Suddenly, he screams a bloodcurdling scream and falls to the floor. His feet kick about and he gurgles then falls silent. Meanwhile, Felicia has handed Lucius a beet-root from the food shelf. (Sorry - tomatoes, (and potatoes) arrived from the New World after 1492 ad.)
Albinus turns to face Drusula. He salutes her with the sword, then bows on one knee.
DRUSULA It is obvious that you men have a lot of work to do with these boys. That was hardly entertaining.
Lucius has retrieved the sword from Croto, cutting it with a beetroot to make it appear bloodstained. He takes the other sword from Albinus, and both stand in the way so she hasn't got a really clear view of Croto.
DRUSULA Make them bleed before you kill them. Cut off an ear. Or a nose. Gouge out an eye. Anything but that dull slash slash thrust parry block stuff.
She stands and walks out, followed by Sextus and Felicia. We hear her off as she shouts back through the door:
DRUSULA (off) And beetroot doesn't look a bit like real blood, Lucius. I wasn't taken in for a moment.
Lucius winces as he hears this.
SEXTUS (Poking his head back through the door) But I thought it was a great idea. A money saving idea. She knows they've only had a bit of training.
She's really in a good mood today. Took the joke rather well, I thought.
(Exits)
MARCUS Lucky for you.
LUCIUS I don't expect the boys to start killing each other yet. Stand them down at the chain.
He points to the wall. Albinus and Croto take up position while Lucius neck chains them with the others.
Bostar - food and water. After that bit of excitement, you can rest a while. We will continue training later.
After checking that the boys are secure, Marcus and Lucius leave, locking the door behind them. Bostar prepares the water bowls and bread.
SPARTACUS Why have they left us chained up?
CANIS I have a feeling this isn't going to be a chicken and wine evening.
Bostar hands out the bowls of water and the hunks of bread.
BOSTAR You don't know?
The answer's very simple
You must be slow.
One of those boys was supposed to go.
ALBINUS I was supposed to kill him?
BOSTAR Of course.
ALBINUS But I like Croto. He's my friend.
BOSTAR All this friendship has to end.
I don't know how you got away with it. The Lady Drusula is not sentimental over slaves.
SPARTACUS (While eating and drinking) We must be worth a lot of money - not now, perhaps, but later
HOSTUS Most gladiators are ordinary slaves or condemned criminals. They learn their craft in a few weeks or months.
SPARTACUS If we are trained to be expert gladiators, trained as boys until we are men, we should be able to kill any of our opponents easily.
CANIS And Sextus will make a killing on the wagers. He'll sell us at a huge profit.
The door opens quietly. The boys do not see Drusula, who is standing in the opening.
CANIS That is why Lady Drusula didn't mind when Albinus faked Croto's death. She stands to profit too.
My name might be Canis, but I am neither a witch, nor a bitch.
Drusula enters. There is momentary confusion, and all the boys bow deeply. Canis assumes the grovel position. The rest follow him.
DRUSULA I heard my name while walking by. The muses say one should never listen to conversations about oneself. The chatter of slaves is idle.
There are some things which cannot pass.
She leaves and closes the door behind her. Terrified, the boys stay put in absolute silence. Bostar sobs in fear. A few moments later, Marcus and Lucius enter.
They waste no time. Canis is unchained and taken to the table. He lies on his back. His wrists are tied to his ankles under the table so he cannot move. The boy's head lies over the edge. Lucius presses his sword across Canis' mouth.
LUCIUS Open it, or I will cut it open.
Canis obeys, moaning in terror.
MARCUS This will not destroy your capacity to fight. It will give you good cause to hate.
Drusula enters, holding a knife. The blade glows red hot. She hands it to Marcus.
DRUSULA His tongue, Centurion.
Marcus, Lucius, and Drusula lean over Canis so we cannot see, except that he screams and his legs kick. There is a hissing noise. Drusula holds up the tongue.
DRUSULA Hang it around his neck so that he will remember me until his death.
LUCIUS I fear it will rot away, my lady.
DRUSULA Do I have to tell you everything? Tan it first. Turn it into leather.
(To Canis) I could have had your eyes, your arms, your legs, or your skin, but you are right. There is no profit in your death.
You will fight for me, little boy. You will win me fortunes, but you will never sing of your victories.
MARCUS I fear he is out cold, my lady. The pain is too great for anyone to bear and stay conscious.
DRUSULA See that he does not die. My husband has invested much money in him.
I have given him with the gift of silence, the knowledge of pain, and you, Lucius, will teach him the skill of total obedience.
She leaves, followed by Marcus. The door closes behind her and Lucius is left to clean up the mess.
LUCIUS Oh, Canis. You were warned.
(To the others) You have all been warned.
Before the gods - take heed.
CURTAIN
END ACT 2 Scene 2
FRONT CURTAIN
LUCIUS What a bloodthirsty scene. The producer was in conference for hours before we decided to show you that bit.
Cutting out tongues. YUCK!
(To Canis, who has appeared Down Right.)
You enjoyed doing that scene, didn't you?
Canis nods.
Not much fun at the time, though, was it?
Canis shakes his head.
But think of it this way - All the parts you have in the play from now on are non-speaking. You don't have to learn any more lines.
Canis expresses his joy in dance and movement, exiting down left, followed by Lucius.
ACT 2 Scene 3
The Holding Cell. Spartacus and Gallo, armed with wooden swords, face each other. Nobody else is in the room, but no explanation is given for this.
SPARTACUS Lift your blade higher, Gallo. You have to strike down with energy. Remember - the gladius is like a heavy knife.
Swap your grip on it. Practice holding it two ways. To stab down, and to sweep up.
He demonstrates as he says this, and leads Gallo through a series of knife and sword drills.
You're getting it, Gallo. You're getting it.
Gallo performs his sword movements - a piece of choreography to show his skill at the blade and shield.
Gallo stops, exhausted. He shakes his head, and drinks from a bowl of water on the table.
GALLO Don't tell me. There'll be no water in the arena. I just feel so thirsty. Thank you for training me.
SPARTACUS Don't tell anyone. You may have to take them by surprise - without resorting to tricks.
GALLO You are a true friend, Spartacus.
SPARTACUS I plan to escape from here, Gallo. I want you to come with me.
GALLO It takes days for somebody as light as we are to die by crucifixion. We aren't heavy enough to suffocate.
SPARTACUS Lucius told us that to frighten us. All that stuff about the blood going green first is rubbish.
Still. Men die in hours, boys in days. I believe that bit.
GALLO It is better to die in the arena. The blade of a gladiator is quick and sure.
SPARTACUS (Laughing at the joke) No twitching and jerking.
GALLO No twitching, jerking, or dancing round. Friends until death, Spartacus?
They clasp hands to elbows in the warrior's salute.
SPARTACUS Until death, Gallo.
GALLO Until we meet each other in the arena. And with Sextus, that may never happen.
CURTAIN
FRONT CURTAIN
Spartacus and Gallo perform a ritual sword dance and sword drill before the curtain.
ACT 3 Scene 1
CURTAIN
The ARENA. A door (Center Right) leads into the boys' holding room. The theatre audience will be the spectators, but for now, do not interact.
The arena door slides open, and the boys march in to line up centre stage. It is several months later. They are now a well disciplined, taught, trained, terrific, squad.
There is no laughter. No humor. They have become a merciless killing machine.
Lucius and Marcus enter Down Left.
LUCIUS Gladiators - Salute!
GLADIATORS Hail Lucius! Hail Marcus! We who are about to die, salute you!
LUCIUS Today we have a special surprise for you. You will be divided into two teams of four. Then you will fight each other. The winning team will divide into two pairs. They will fight each other. The winning pair will then fight each other.
MARCUS If you are knocked down, you will be counted as being dead. Stay down. The winner will have the chance to bring honor to this school. He will be especially rewarded.
LUCIUS Spartacus, you will not fight this day. Stand aside.
Bostar - you will lead the Blue team. Certis, you will lead the Red team. Bostar may choose first.
Bostar and Certis move to the front to choose their teams. It is an age old ritual - the chosen line up behind their leader. Spartacus moves to the side of the arena. No comment is made about this. Nobody dares to ask any questions. Lucius and Marcus move to their seats in the audience rows. Spartacus kneels at alert on one knee in front of Lucius - facing the arena. (When the battle gets going, he is permitted to sit in comfort, cross legged in front of the soldiers, but not on the seats with them.)
BOSTAR Demetrius
CERTIS Hostus
BOSTAR Gallo
CERTIS Croto
BOSTAR Canis
CERTIS Albinus
Marcus hands out Blue scarves to Bostar's team, and Red scarves to Certis' team. The boys line up in two teams facing each other.
LUCIUS Begin!
The ensuing battle is a free-form choreography of a fight between two teams. It takes several minutes to complete, and it is suggested that it be done with suitable musical background. The audience may be encouraged to cheer and to take the place of the crowd.
As the fight progresses, Certis' Red team begins to lose. One by one, they drop - defeated - to the ground. Finally, only Bostar's team stands.
BLUE TEAM Hail Lucius. Hail Marcus. We claim this victory to your honor.
LUCIUS Bostar. Blue Team may help Certis and his defeated team from the arena. See that the injured are tended to, then return.
Bostar salutes. They help Certis' team off. Many are stunned and groaning in pain. Marcus goes with them.
A few moments later, Marcus returns with Bostar and the rest of his team.
MARCUS Not too badly hurt, Lucius. They are all on the chain. Two days without food or water might encourage them to try harder next time.
LUCIUS So, Bostar. You now know the fate of those who lose. Bostar and Gallo may retain their Blue scarves. Red is for Demetrius and Canis.
Salute!
Bostar, Gallo, Demetrius, and Canis raise their swords in salute.
GLADIATORS Hail Lucius! Hail Marcus! Those who are about to die salute you!
LUCIUS Canis - I didn't hear you. Salute!
Canis stands forward, raises his wooden sword aggressively and gives a throaty growl.
Lucius and Marcus grin at their cruel joke.
LUCIUS Begin.
The four youngsters get stuck into each other vigorously, but more carefully. They are somewhat tired, but their battle proceeds apace. Bostar kicks Demetrius in the stomach, and the boy falls winded. Canis is distracted for a moment, and Gallo smacks him in the face with a backhanded shield. Canis drops like a rock.
MARCUS Drag them out. One day on the chains without food or water.
He follows as Bostar and Gallo help Demetrius and Gallo from the arena.
LUCIUS Spartacus
Spartacus comes to the alert kneeling position facing Marcus.
SPARTACUS Sir!
LUCIUS Are you enjoying the contest?
SPARTACUS They seem to be fighting well, Sir.
LUCIUS That is not what I asked.
SPARTACUS I am enjoying the contest, Sir!
Bostar, Gallo, and Marcus re-enter the arena.
MARCUS Canis has a flattened nose. Demetrius a broken rib. Both will survive.
LUCIUS So it's between Bostar and little Gallo. How interesting.
Spartacus assumes the grovel position before Lucius
SPARTACUS Sir! Please may I speak?
LUCIUS As you are already speaking, What is it?
SPARTACUS Sir! Gallo is too unmatched to fight Bostar. May I take his place?
LUCIUS No. Resume your position, slave. One more word from you, and I shall give Gallo fifty lashes.
Bostar. Gallo. Are you ready?
Gallo doesn't wait. He bashes his shield across Bostar's chest, and smacks his sword across the older boy's shins. As they both start fighting, Gallo screams out the salute.
GALLO Hail Lucius! We who are about to die salute you!
BOSTAR I'll kill you! You sneaky little rat!
Lucius jumps up from his chair. Marcus is right with him
LUCIUS Yes! Yes! He's got it! He's got it!
MARCUS You did it Lucius! The boy's a tiger. You turned the lamb into a roaring lion!
Unhinged by Gallo's pr-emptive strike, Bostar is felled. Gallo kicks him down onto the sand.
GALLO Hail Lucius. Hail Marcus. I, Gallo, claim this victory!
LUCIUS Well done, Gallo.
MARCUS His reward, Lucius. Tell him his reward.
LUCIUS An old friend has returned. The noble tribune, Lentulus Gaius, wishes to field a gladiator in the games given to celebrate his promotion to high office.
MARCUS We rejoice at his good fortune. He has done well on the Northern Frontier. On his return, he thought of us.
LUCIUS Two days hence, you Gallo, and you, Spartacus, shall meet in the arena. You shall have real swords.
Lentulus has purchased both of you, to the profit of Sextus.
SPARTACUS But real swords means ...
MARCUS A fight to the death. Lentulus wants the best. The very best.
LUCIUS I have trained you well, Spartacus, but Gallo is also well trained. He fights like a demon. It shall be a great contest.
MARCUS And the winner will have the honor of fighting in the Arena of Rome. He will fight the best and most experienced of gladiators.
Now tend to Bostar. Take him inside. He fought well, and need not be chained.
The boys move over to tend Bostar. He does not move.
SPARTACUS Sir. There is no life in him. Bostar is dead.
LUCIUS Oh. It did not look like a fatal blow, but one never can tell.
The cage is yours, tonight, Spartacus. You are now in charge of the boys.
Marcus and Lucius exit down left. Spartacus and Gallo grasp Bostar by the arms and legs ready to drag him back into the boy gladiators' cell.
CURTAIN
END ACT 3 Scene 1
Front Curtain
Lucius enters down right.
LUCIUS What a problem for Spartacus. He was warned - not to make friends. He had a soft side, you see. He cared.
Canis enters from the other side. He sees Lucius and stops.
Take Canis for instance. Now I do not care about Canis. He is a slave, who means nothing to me. I don't even own him. He belongs to Sextus and the Padua Gladiators' School.
Sextus is dead, and the school destroyed. Spartacus did that. It just goes to show how ungrateful slaves can be. After all the training - all the preparation - he turned on his masters.
(To Canis) Have you got your crucifix ready yet? I told you to get a good one.
Canis shakes his head.
LUCIUS I can't crucify you without a decent stake and cross bar, can I?
Canis shakes his head again.
I've got orders to crucify all six thousand survivors. That's Barred vee, em. Not Barred vee, cee, em, ex, cee, eye, ex. We can count, you know. Romans are very good at counting. Our mathematics might be Rattus excretas, but our counting is very good.
Canis assumes the grovel position in front of Lucius.
LUCIUS Oh, get up, Canis. I'm not going to crucify you. It's lucky that I found you after the battle, and not somebody else. Just remember - you're my personal slave. And if anybody asks, that's what you can tell them.
Well - whatever.
Technicalities.
Oh, I am the soft hearted one.
Now where were we?
Oh, yes. The night before the battle.
CURTAIN
ACT 3 Scene 2
The Boy Gladiators' Cell. The boys, heavily swathed in bandages, have been released from their chains and form a line center stage, where Marcus is addressing them.
MARCUS Let that be a lesson to you all. In this school, you work hard, and you do your best. When dismissed, you may partake of a little water and bread. Do not gorge yourselves on it.
Are you ready for them, Spartacus?
SPARTACUS Sir.
MARCUS Take over. Then rest. Tomorrow is a big day.
He exits through the rear door. Spartacus and Gallo distribute the bread and water to the boys - small amounts.
CERTIS We haven't eaten for two days, and this is all you give us?
SPARTACUS Would you quarrel with the master's orders?
CERTIS You would tell him? For two days, we have watched you eat your fill. You gave us nothing.
GALLO By their command.
DEMETRIUS When you were punished, we managed to feed you. You were our friend. We looked after you.
SPARTACUS Friendship is a curse, Demetrius. I have no friends. In this place, I have no friends.
HOSTUS And what says Gallo? He who slew Bostar. Has he any friends?
GALLO I ... I do not deserve ... friends.
The death of Bostar was the death of friends. I thought I had a friend, But in this place, there are no friends.
ALBINUS To have a friend is to have weakness. To have a friend is to slow the sword.
CROTO To have a friend is to court Death.
And what do you think, Spartacus? Are you still friends with Gallo?
SPARTACUS If I had a friend
Which I have not - in this place,
It would be Gallo.
GALLO And if I had a friend,
Which I do not.
It would be Spartacus.
The two boys grasp each other by the right hand to the elbows in the Roman handshake, in front of the line of gladiators.
GLADIATORS HAIL SPARTACUS! HAIL GALLO! We, who are about to die, salute you!
GALLO I could ... I could have a friend until tomorrow.
SPARTACUS Until tomorrow.
And for all their stupid orders
Let us eat and drink until we are full.
GALLO It may be bread and water, but for tonight, let it be a feast amongst friends.
They set to work, consuming the rations.
CURTAIN
Canis enters down right with his wooden sword. He looks at the audience and gives his guttural growls while doing a solo sword routine.
CURTAIN
ACT 3 Scene 3
The School Arena:
The boy gladiators take their position in front of the audience, kneeling. Marcus, Lucius, and Lentulus enter and take up the central seat positions. Sextus and Drusula enter to see the show. Felicia brings them refreshments.
SEXTUS Now we shall see how finely these boys have trained, Tribune.
LENTULUS I trust I have not come all this way for nothing.
DRUSULA (Spilling a little wine) A libation for the gods that they shall smile on this happy venture.
ROMANS To the gods.
LUCIUS Begin the contest.
Spartacus and Gallo enter side by side from the cell room. They march to a central position in front of the spectators, and salute with the steel swords.
LUCIUS I warned them not to strike before the salutation. They shall stand apart before the contest begins.
SPAR. & GALL. Hail Lentulus! We who are about to die salute you.
They move apart and take position. Lentulus throws a red scarf into the arena, and the contest begins.
The fight scene choreography should take a while. It needs to be an interesting fight, with the contest going first one way, then the other. While this is happening, the Romans cheer their favorites on.
LUCIUS Come on, Spartacus. Remember all I've taught you!
MARCUS Take him, Gallo! Take him!
The gladiators sit quietly through all this. They do not cheer, but merely watch.
DRUSULA My bet with Lentulus is on Gallo. I favor the timid one who has become a lion. Gallo - Kill the rat! Kill him!
LENTULUS What a strike! Spartacus has drawn blood!
LUCIUS Now, Spartacus. Thrust now!
Gallo, severely wounded, drops his sword and shield. He staggers across towards Spartacus and falls to his knees.
Drusula is on her feet, thumb down.
DRUSULA Kill him! Kill him, Spartacus.
SPARTACUS (drops his sword and kneels in front of Gallo.)
GALLO You must, Spartacus.
You must!
Spartacus picks up his sword and plunges it into Gallo, who dies. There is no death rattle. He falls back dead. Spartacus stays kneeling and moves to the grovel position in front of the corpse of Gallo.
CURTAIN
END ACT 3 Scene 3
The Gladiators line up in front of the curtain with the rest of the cast on their Left.
SPARTACUS We dedicate this play to the bashed and abused boys of this world.
CANIS To those who are bashed so that they can become real men.
DEMETRIUS To the boys in the world's trouble spots who become soldiers before their time.
GALLO To the street kids in South America who are killed because they are poor
HOSTUS To children who work as slaves to make carpets, soccer balls, and shoes because their labor is cheap.
ALBINUS to the poor and starving children everywhere.
BOSTAR To children who cannot buy bread because their governments are buying weapons instead of grain.
CROTO To children who are abused in secret.
CERTIS We dedicate this play to all the children in the lucky country, in the hope that their luck will continue.
GLADIATORS Hail World Leaders. We who are about to die, Salute you.
THE END