Today’s entry in my series of facts about Pompeii is gladius. Most of the time, when we think of a gladius, a specific type of Roman short sword comes to mind. Interestingly enough, though, the word is simply Latin for “sword,” and would have referred to any such type of weapon. It is also the word from which gladiator, meaning “one who fights with swords,” is derived.
There are four verified types of Roman gladius, one of which was found at Pompeii. Rather than describe the differences myself, I thought I would share this video made by a Roman legionary reenactor. Enjoy!
Sharon E. Cathcart 
It’s the etymology of gladiolus, too, from the sword-shaped leaves. =)
Black and White (Words and Pictures)
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It’s the etymology of gladiolus, too, from the sword-shaped leaves. =)
(Click the Blog link on the second row) : G is for Gotham
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I did not know that! Thank you; I always enjoy learning new things. I’m glad you stopped by today.
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Thanks for teaching me some new things! And who could image that there would be four different types of gladius? It also never occurred to me that gladiolus was related, but it makes perfect sense (so thank you also to Anne Nydam.)
https://atozwriting.blogspot.com/
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Thank you so much for stopping by! I’m glad you enjoyed it.
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The video was really great.
We make a lot of assumption about ancient times. But there was so much diversity and variety to it.
@JazzFeathers
The Old Shelter – Living the Twenties
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I’m glad you enjoyed it! Thank you so much.
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Reblogged this on Sharon E. Cathcart and commented:
The word gladiator comes from gladius.
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The Wall’s in easy reach, just a short drive, and in summer, English Heritage re-enactments are greatly enjoyed by our sister/sister in law, who has cerebral palsy and loves everything Roman.
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I was just looking at this article on “The Past” concerning the excavations near Turret 3A.
https://the-past.com/welcome/this-week-hadrians-wall-2/
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