Here's a more detailed breakdown of their role:
* Training: Lanistae were responsible for the physical and combat training of gladiators. This included teaching them swordsmanship, wrestling, and other fighting techniques.
* Management: Lanistae managed the gladiators' lives, including their housing, food, and medical care. They also arranged for gladiatorial contests and negotiated contracts with sponsors.
* Profit-driven: Lanistae were essentially entrepreneurs who made money by managing gladiators and putting on shows. They would purchase gladiators, train them, and then rent them out to fight in arenas for a profit.
* Social standing: While not always respected, lanistae were important figures in Roman society. They had a lot of influence over the lives of gladiators and were involved in a lucrative business.
In summary, a lanista was a complex figure who played a crucial role in the world of gladiatorial combat in ancient Rome.