Spartacus: Gods of the Arena premiered on January 21, 2011 on Starz. It is a mini-series, which showcases the life of the first gladiator turning into Capua’s champion, Gannicus (Dustin Clare). Spartacus: Gods of the Arena is a prequel of Spartacus: Blood and Sand. The roles of several members have been reprised in this series like Batiatus, whose character is played by John Hannah, Lucretia played by Lucy Lawless, Oenomaus played by Peter Mensah and Crixus by Manu Bennett.

Spartacus: Gods of the Arena tells the story of a time before the entry of Spartacus in the House of Batiatus. It gives a beautiful illustration of history in the city of Capua when Quintus Lentulus Batiatus holds the position of lanista (manager) and he wishes to make his own identity. He dislikes the fact that people know him only for his father and his deeds. His only ambition is to get all the power and gain greatness on his own. He is helped by his supportive and strikingly beautiful wife named Lucretia, who stands by her husband at every stage of life. She is ready to pay any cost to let her husband achieve his ambitions.

Gannicus is the best gladiator and Batiatus is ready to try his luck in order to attain glory and fame. He relies on Gannicus because he is a skilled warrior. He fights as if it is his last day of survival. However, not everyone supports Batiatus and talks in his favor. There are several people, who seek the fall of Batiatus and keep on planning the demise of his power.

Another gladiator is Gaul Crixus, who has been tolerating the death threats and mockery of people to have his name as a great gladiator after Gannicus. On the other hand, Gannicus appreciates the strength of Crixus but he also harbors fears about his own failure. The opponent of Batiatus, Tullius makes many attempts to get Gannicus with him but he always fails in his endeavors.