The gladiators were divided
into categories according to the armour and fighting techniques they employed;
at times, though, it is difficult to understand the full significance of
these differences.
Generally speaking, until
the time of Augustus the weapons were similar to those used by the army.
Later, helmets acquired a circular brim and cheek protectors which were
gradually lengthened and eventually joined together so as to protect the
entire face, leaving only two holes for the eyes, which became progressively
larger and were protected by grilles.
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