11-12-2007, 01:29 PM
Quote:...it wasn't restricted to the upper classes or officers by any means. Didn't pankration become a part of gladiator training and sport after Greece was conquered, but a much bloodier and brutal version using spiked gloves or some such?
Sure, but I think the question was what "gentlemen" practiced (though I could have misunderstood!) as opposed anyone being restricted. As far as I can ascertain, wrestling was regarded highly, and as I say, I can see why it would be the MA of choice for the gentleman, simply because he'd take less facial damage - the mark of plebeian?
Also - now, this is of the top of my head with no googling, so forgive me - I think the gloves you're referring to here were called "cestus" - they had metal plates on them in some instances. I don't know about spikes, but there is bound to be some text to evidence this. But, spikes or plates...it would be sore to get a dig from one of em, that's for sure!
Russ
