“Spartacus: Gods of the Arena” (2011) is a historical drama television series that serves as a prequel to “Spartacus: Blood and Sand.”

Set in ancient Rome, the series explores the origins of the House of Batiatus and the gladiatorial arena in which Spartacus, the series’ titular character, would later fight.

The story takes place before the rise of Spartacus and focuses on the lives of the gladiators and the scheming political machinations of the Batiatus family.It follows the rise of the ambitious Batiatus (John Hannah), the owner of the gladiator school, and his efforts to gain power and prestige.

The series delves into the brutal world of the gladiatorial games and the personal dramas of both the fighters and their masters. Key characters include Gannicus (Dustin Clare), a renowned gladiator who becomes a central figure in the arena, and Lucretia (Lucy Lawless), Batiatus’s scheming wife.

The series is known for its intense action, dramatic storytelling, and exploration of themes such as power, betrayal, and honor in the context of ancient Roman society.