4. It Makes The Romans Look Like Complete Dicks
Granted, this isn't the most original approach to depicting the ultimate old-school Evil Empire; the old movie epics did it all the time, often contrasting Roman brutality with the subversive saintliness of early Christians. Yet Spartacus is admirably committed to the principle of making the sons (and daughters) of Mars look like the most smug, hateful, bloodthirsty pack of oppressive bastards ever. No sly references to their excellent sanitation or the Pax Romana here, just blood and cruelty. Its a brilliant use of an entire civilization, pumped up with arrogance by its successful expansion, as a powerful, threatening, despicable villain. Theres a scene in the penultimate episode of Season 1, when a semi-naked Spartacus, armed only with wooden practice swords, proves his abilities by brutally wiping the floor with five fully-equipped Roman soldiers. Its one of the most awesome things I've ever seen, and its awesomeness is enhanced by the gleeful sight of seeing this put-upon slave humble the best fighters of the people who have exploited, brutalised and humiliated him all season. The all-pervasive scale of Roman power and ruthlessness is constantly emphasised, nicely setting up the unleashed vengeful fury of Spartacus rebellion.