Lanista

By Crusader1307

The Roman Latin term ''Lanista'' (sometimes refered to as ''Lanister''), derived from the occupation of ''Manager of Gladiators''. Akin to the previously discussed ''Dominus'' and ''Domina'' (Master or Mistress), The Lanista was a Class of Roman Citizen, looked down upon by upper Classed Patricians. Regardless, The Lanista would be akin to a Middle Classed Citizen. Lanista's procured their Slaves from various sources. Only the strongest (and most teachable) were chosen for the ultimate position of Gladiator. Once trained, these Fighters earned monies for their Lanista by being ''survivors'' or Champions of their ''matches'' in an Arena (or related). Lanista's strive to imprive their station in Class Society thru Patronage from wealthy Patricians who regualrly ''bet'' (wagered monies) on particular ''Victors'' in Arena Matches. Much as One would with ''modern'' Horse Racing. Lanistia's were found at the beginning of The Republican Era, biut were most prolific during Rome's Imperial Period. With the overall decline of ''Gladiator Games'' by the 6th Century AD, so too did The Lanista Class.