ARENA´RII
ARENA´RII are mentioned in inscriptions as formed
into
collegia (Orelli-Henzen, Nos. 2773, 4063).
The meaning of the name is variously explained as gladiators fighting in the
arena, persons who swept it and looked
after it (Orelli), or diggers in an
arenaria or
sand-pit (Muratori). The first of these three senses is the most probable;
they are named in connexion with
lanistae, scenici,
venatores, &c., and Tertullian calls them
amentissimi and
infames
(
de Spect. 22, cf. Petron.
Sat. 126; Capitol.
Aurel. Philosoph., 100.19;
Rein, ap. Pauly, i.2 s. v.).
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W.W]