When we left Spartacus at the end of THE GLADIATOR, he had swept all before him, quelling rebellions from rival commanders within his slave army and defeating every force Rome could throw at him. Now, however, Crixus, the powerful leader of the Gauls, disagrees violently with Spartacus's strategy - to march north, over the Alps and thence home. Gaul for Crixus and Thrace in northern Greece for Spartacus. Crixus - over-confident after their stunning victories - wants to march on Rome itself, convinced that they can bring their former masters to their knees. This disagreement leads to Crixus splitting off with his men and being annihilated by the Romans. It perhaps also signifies the first fatal weakening of Spartacus's position. But his march north towards the Alps goes smoothly and the way looks open for escape - which makes all the more puzzling the decision now made by Spartacus to turn back and go south again. He settles for the winter near Thurii - thus really throwing down the gauntlet to Rome. He and his slave army have shredded the armies of three praetors, two consuls and one proconsul with apparent ease. The rebellion has become war - to the bitter end. Marcus L

Author Biography

Ben Kane was born in Kenya and raised there and in Ireland. He studied veterinary medicine and University College, Dublin, but after that he travelled the world extensively, indulging in his passion for ancient history. He lives in North Somerset with his wife and two young children.