The primary purpose of the Roman gladiatorial games in ancient society was to entertain the public while serving as a demonstration of power and control by the ruling elite. These spectacles were held in large arenas, such as the Colosseum, where gladiators, often slaves or prisoners, fought each other or wild animals. The games were also seen as a way to honor the dead and were tied to religious festivals. They fulfilled social functions, providing the populace with distraction and excitement, while reinforcing the values of bravery and martial skill in Roman culture.