Spartacus Summary
Howard Fast

Spartacus Summary

The parallel between imperialistic technological cultures, Rome and America, is apparent in Spartacus. Resisting oppression and committing oneself to action for others, even selfsacrifice, is diametrically opposed to the self-centered, solipsistic Roman attitudes. Against the Roman slave system, rebellion brings not only unity, but also equality between people, races, and even sexes. Spartacus's gladiators, dispossessed from all corners of the Empire: Thracians, Jews, Gauls, Egyptians, Spaniards, and black Ethiopians, work together equally, women alongside the men.

The promise of redemption and transformation exists not only for groups but also for individuals, illustrating the primacy of individual responsibility, moral revelation through action, and people's capacity for change. Not only the embittered, alienated gladiators but also some Romans are transformed by the example of loving sacrifice and human endurance.

The decrepit, fat, corrupt politician Gracchus, recognizing the moral superiority of Spartacus and Varinia and the bankruptcy of his own life...

(read more from the Short Guide)