Each of the four gladiators that Spartacus defeated in the arena, fought in a different gladiatorial style. Arkadios (the "Red Serpent" fighter) was a Murmillo. Among the other three fighters was a Retiarius, a Secutor (Axe-wielding) and a Hoplomachus.
Historically speaking, The Province of Thrace put up the longest and most formidable resistance to the rapidly growing Roman republic before being overtaken. The events of Spartacus occur years later, which is supported by Glaber's opening statement, "Thrace and the Republic have not always been as brothers... ."
According to some historical accounts, Spartacus' wife (who's actual name is unknown) was a Priestess in their tribe. Sura's vision of the "Red Serpent" was loosely based on an actual occurrence of the real Spartacus' wife; who, after they were taken as slaves, once saw a snake coiled on the forehead of her sleeping husband. This she took to be an omen of both great power and misfortune. This was incorporated into the show, as Sura tells her husband that if he goes to war, he is "destined for great & unfortunate things."
In the episode, it is shown that the Getae are savage monsters and that the Maedi are a noble people when in fact, the Getae were considered one of the most noble of all Thracians and the Maedi were a minor barbarian tribe.
Spartacus' real name is never revealed. Whenever he is asked for his real name, he is interrupted.