The Pugilist At Rest is a sculpture made by G. Ruggeri in 1st Century B.C. It shares the same name with one of Thom Jones’ books. In Mr, Jones’ story, the protagonist Theogenes, the greatest of gladiators, was a boxer who served under the patronage of a cruel nobleman (Lindemans). Unlike modern-day boxing, the ancient boxing was a fight to the death (Lindemans). Fourteen hundred and twenty-five times Theogenes had fought and fourteen hundred and twenty-five times he emerged a victor (Lindemans).
Perhaps it is Theogenes who is depicted in this famous statue. The statue depicts a muscular athlete sitting quietly and meditating with his forearms balanced on his thighs. He has a thick beard and a full head of curly hair. His forehead is piled with scars. As being expected, the pugilist has the characteristics of a strong fighter. His neck muscles are well developed. His shoulders are enormous, and his back is muscular. Also, he has sturdy legs, which are the symbols of a boxer. It is clear to see that he was perfectly proportioned.
It seems like that the boxer is saving his energy by himself besides the arena. His head is turned as if he were looking at the audience, including cheerful supporters, rude scoffers, and the neutral fans. He noticed these people’s presence and might be thinking of himself while looking at them. There is a look of confusion on his face, but there is no trace of fear. His life will soon be on the line. As a boxer, he feels pressure and needs to see it as the motivation for the win. At this very moment, he is isolated, and really needs to calm himself down and succeed for the glory.
Lindemans, Micha F. "Theogenic Myths." Encyclopedia Mythica: Mythology, Folklore, and Religion. Encyclopedia Mythica, 08 Jan. 1999. Web. 27 Apr. 2011. http://www.pantheon.org/articles/t/theogenic_myths.html.
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