Spartacus: Gods of the Arena is a Starz television mini-series and prequel to Spartacus, which premiered January 21, 2011. The series follows the character Gannicus, the first gladiator representing Lentulus Batiatus to become Champion of Capua.
Batiatus seeks vengeance for all that has befallen him and retains his gladiators and Solonius in the cause. The opening of the new arena arrives, promising a spectacle of combat and blood.
Batiatus’ father announces a tournament to determine the worth of his stable of gladiators. Crixus, dedicated to proving himself, is drawn into the power play within the house.
The House of Batiatus is caught in the power struggle between father and son. Lucretia reluctantly agrees to her husband’s risky plan. Gannicus finds himself on unstable ground.
Just as his fortunes are on the rise and his future clear before him, Batiatus is stunned by the return of his father - which puts his attempts to gain rank by exploiting those above his class at risk.
Batiatus conjures up a devious plan and enlists Lucretia, Gaia and a clutch of gladiator recruits to see it through. Oenomaus longs to reclaim the top gladiator rank, but new challenges cross his path.
