Ancient rulers often did not ride into battle themselves; however, sometimes the battle would come to them. To ensure his safety in life-threatening situations, a king or emperor surrounded himself with bodyguards who would shield him from the dangers of the ancient world. These stern guardians were often equipped with the finest armour and weapons, and many of them were willing to do (almost) anything to protect their lord.

Theme: Swords around the throne - Bodyguards of kings and emperors

• Séan Hussmann, 'Introduction to the theme'
• Michael J. Taylor, 'Laughing at the Praetorian Guard: Juvenal XVI'
• Nick Sekunda, 'Cavalry about the court: The Ptolemaic horse guard
• Ilario Lorusso, 'Portraying Praetorian guardsmen'
• Sidney Dean, 'Crethi and Plethi and Mighty Men: The bodyguards of King David'
• Scott Rusch, 'Protecting Sparta's kings ...and the role of the hippeis'
• Cezary Kucewicz, 'Protecting Alexander: Alexander's bodyguards in times of war and peace'
• Ross Cowan, 'Peculiar Praetorian pila'