Gladiators were active during the time of the Roman Empire, particularly from around 3rd century BC to the 5th century AD. They were trained fighters who would engage in combat in arenas for the entertainment of the public. Gladiatorial games were a popular form of entertainment in ancient Rome and were often held as part of public spectacles and festivals. **

Gladiators were not necessarily fearless, as they were human beings who experienced fear like anyone else. However, they were trained to be skilled fighters and to face the possibility of death in the arena. Many gladiators were slaves or prisoners of war, and they fought in the arena as a means of survival or to gain fame and fortune. While some may have displayed bravery and courage in the face of danger, it is likely that many experienced fear and anxiety before entering the arena. **

Gladiators received a form of payment known as a "stipendium," which was essentially a wage for their services. The amount of money varied depending on the skill and popularity of the gladiator, with some earning more than others. In addition to their stipendium, successful gladiators could also receive bonuses or gifts from wealthy patrons or sponsors. However, the life of a gladiator was still harsh and dangerous, with the potential for injury or death in the arena. **

Slaves were individuals who were owned by others and forced to work without pay. They had no freedom and were considered property. Gladiators were typically slaves or prisoners of war who were trained to fight in arenas for entertainment. They were often forced to fight to the death or until they were severely injured. **

There is no historical evidence to suggest that gladiators were castrated. The idea that gladiators were castrated likely stems from a misunderstanding of the term "eunuch" in ancient Roman texts, which was used to describe certain types of entertainers but not specifically gladiators. Gladiators were typically slaves or prisoners of war who were trained to fight in the arena, and there is no evidence to suggest that castration was a common practice among them. **

Yes, there were female gladiators in ancient Rome. While they were not as common as male gladiators, there is evidence to suggest that women also participated in gladiatorial combat. These female gladiators were known as "gladiatrix" and would fight in the arena, often against other women or sometimes even against men. However, their presence in the gladiatorial games was not as widespread as their male counterparts. **

No, not all gladiators could buy their freedom. Only those who had earned enough money through winning fights or had a wealthy patron who would pay for their freedom could potentially buy their freedom. Many gladiators were slaves and did not have the means to purchase their freedom, so they remained in servitude until they were either released by their owner or died in combat. **

Yes, there were gladiators who were pardoned. In some cases, if a gladiator fought with exceptional bravery or skill, they could be granted their freedom by the emperor or the owner of the gladiator school. This was a rare occurrence, but there are historical records of gladiators being pardoned and allowed to live out the rest of their lives as free men. **