Gladiator (2000 film)

Historical sources

The Roman emperors portrayed in the movie are Marcus Aurelius (played by Richard Harris), who ruled AD 161–180, and his son, the deranged Commodus, who ruled between 180–192, and scandalized Roman society by appearing in the Colosseum as a gladiator. The film's characterization attempts to reflect Marcus Aurelius's reputation for wisdom but does so by placing a modern democratic slant to his actions and beliefs. The representation of Commodus is extremely watered down, as Commodus was far more insane and bloodthirsty than he appears in the film.

Related Topics:
Roman emperor - Marcus Aurelius - Richard Harris - 161 - 180 - 192 - Colosseum - Gladiator - Modern - Democratic

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The quick death of Commodus and the supposed return of republicanism to Rome at the end of the film is entirely fictional, as is the character of the noble senator Gracchus (played by Derek Jacobi) who is apparently to lead the new regime. His name is derived from the Republican brothers the Gracchi, who lived centuries before the events depicted in the film. Indeed, many historians — beginning with Edward Gibbon — cite Marcus Aurelius' death as the beginning of the fall of the Roman Empire.

Related Topics:
Republicanism - Derek Jacobi - Gracchi - Edward Gibbon - Fall of the Roman Empire

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The character of Maximus is entirely fictional, though he is similar in some respects to the historical figures of Narcissus (the character's name in the first draft of the screenplay and the real killer of Commodus), Spartacus (who led a significant slave revolt), and Cincinnatus (the saviour of Rome who wished nothing more than to return to his farm).

Related Topics:
Narcissus - Spartacus - Cincinnatus

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