![spartacus gods of the arena spartacus gods of the arena](https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_QcYf_8sBCik/TEQV-g9g_LI/AAAAAAAAF3A/6nkdJLu4peA/s1600/spartacus-Gods+of+the+Arena.jpg)
With only six episodes of Gods of the Arena to work with, the story moves swiftly, assuming we're already familiar with the darker side of Capua, "Past Transgressions" focuses on setting the stage for Batiatus' rise to power and introducing us to a few new, key characters. Seeing a man, not decapitated completely, but having the upper portion of his head cut off at the mouth, is probably the showrunners' way of saying "Welcome back." A warm welcome, indeed. If there was any doubt, we're also reacquainted with both the sex and violence that this show has become famous for. The opening moments of " Past Transgressions" quickly reacquaint us with the story thus far before jumping back into Batiatus' past. But Batiatus has a lot to learn about dealing in the seedy underworld of the gladiator. With his father away, Batiatus hopes to see their family ludus prosper in Capua, thus beginning a quest that will change his life forever. Spartacus: Gods of the Arena takes a step back and presents a younger Batiatus whose thirst for power is just manifesting. Most notably, Batiatus' corrupt scheming in his quest to rise beyond his current station and ascend into Rome's higher political circles.
![spartacus gods of the arena spartacus gods of the arena](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BMTc2NDQwNTg3OF5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwNjk4NjExNA@@._V1_QL75_UX500_CR0,47,500,281_.jpg)
As much as Blood and Sand was touted for it's graphic sex and violence, by far it's most notable strength was in its strong, character driven story. As we learned more about the inhabitants of Batiatus' ( John Hannah) ludus, the world of Blood and Sand grew into a fascinating, stylized and candid look at the lives of these gladiators and those who wish to rise to glory upon their backs. An awkward combination of 300 and Gladiator, Blood and Sand struggled to find its own identity.
![spartacus gods of the arena spartacus gods of the arena](https://i1.wp.com/tvtonight.com.au/wp-content/uploads/SPARTACUS-GODS-OF-THE-ARENA.jpg)
Spartacus: Blood and Sand stumbled out of the gate.