As a history enthusiast and a connoisseur of epic films, I must say that “Gladiator” is a cinematic masterpiece that leaves one spellbound with its grandeur and action-packed sequences. However, as a devoted student of ancient Rome, I can’t help but feel a pang of disappointment when it comes to the film’s historical accuracy.
The sequel to the acclaimed movie “Gladiator” has arrived, and it’s been brought into being by the majesty of its predecessor. This epic film took the world by storm, raking in a staggering $498 million worldwide, and even garnered five Oscars, with Russell Crowe winning for Best Actor among them.
The movie’s storyline follows Maximus Decimus Meridius, a Roman general portrayed by Crowe. Tragedy strikes when Commodus, the intellectually-challenged son of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, murders his father to seize power. As a result, Maximus is reduced to slavery. However, rather than giving up, he transforms into a gladiator, fueled by his desire for vengeance against those who caused the deaths of his loved ones and the emperor.
Despite the movie’s outstanding quality, there are some inconsistencies regarding the portrayed period and characters. These discrepancies could be intentional, a creative license choice, or oversights by Ridley Scott. Regardless, historical experts likely took issue with these factual modifications.
10 Marcus Aurelius Never Banned Gladiator Games
In much the same way a proficient actor transforms themselves, Richard Harris doesn’t simply portray an emperor; he embodies one, making it effortless for spectators to admire the character and support his choices. His interpretation of Marcus Aurelius is presented as a conscientious ruler. One of the things that instantly stands out is that while the gladiatorial games are widely enjoyed, Aurelius abhors them. Consequently, he outlaws them in Rome, driving every Ludus Magnus to the outskirts.
Gladiators Were too Popular to Be Outlawed
We recognize that Scott’s film portrays Marcus Aurelius as having an extreme aversion to violence, but in reality, his antipathy towards bloodshed was more nuanced. Although he disliked war and gladiatorial contests, he did not outright prohibit them. Instead, he chose to withhold imperial financing, preferring to allocate funds towards more crucial matters. There are also accounts suggesting that he proposed the use of wooden swords in the arena, allowing skilled gladiators to survive and potentially be deployed in actual battles.
9 Commodus Didn’t Kill His Father
As a once-admired figure of Roman nobility, I was Commodus – charismatic yet troubled. My irrationality and sharp words became my downfall, pushing people away. In time, I took actions beyond comprehension. A moment of horror came when I learned that my father viewed me as unfit to rule and planned to appoint Maximus instead. In a shocking twist, I ended up taking my father’s life.
The Patricide Is Imaginary
In Commodus, Joaquin Phoenix delivers one of his finest performances, making the audience empathize with the character despite his unlikable, somewhat cynical demeanor. This portrayal makes the character worthy of our compassion. Additionally, the depiction of Commodus’ maliciousness through the murder scene serves to further develop his villainous character.
In contrast, it was not Commodus who took the life of his father; instead, Marcus Aurelius passed away in 180 AD during a battle against northern Germanic tribes. Some historians speculate that he may have died from the plague due to his deteriorating health.
8 Romans Didn’t Speak Italian
In one of the film’s emotional (yet sad) scenes, Maximus’ young son runs towards a group of men riding horses, thinking they were part of his father’s team. Excitedly, he cries out, “Mama, i soldati” (which means “Mother, the soldiers!” in Italian). However, this scene is heartwarming yet unfortunately mistaken.
Italian? No Chance
As a passionate movie enthusiast, I can’t help but sing praises for the captivating blend of historical depth and action-packed spectacle that is Gladiator. If you’re a history buff like me, it’s an absolute must-see, except if you’re an etymology whiz. You see, while many languages were spoken within the vast expanse of the Roman Empire, Italian was not among them. The intricate tapestry of speech was primarily woven with Latin threads. Modern Italian was yet to be spun from those yarns during that era.
7 Marcus Aurelius Never Intended to Return Rome to a Republic
In keeping with his character, Marcus Aurelius aspired to transform Rome back into a republic (the empire had been ruled as an empire since 27 BC), as he thought that such a change would enhance the efficiency of the government. However, it’s important to note that Ridley Scott’s portrayal of Marcus Aurelius’ actions may not align with what historians have recorded.
His Actions in the Movie Even Prove Otherwise
In the movie, the character portraying Marcus Aurelius expresses discontent with the current ruling system, but historical evidence points towards a man who was more deeply embedded in the empire’s expansionist traditions. His ambition to extend Roman rule over Germanic territories suggests that he might have been an even more ardent imperialist than his son Commodus, who had pledged to curtail his father’s expensive northern campaigns. Furthermore, by grooming his son to assume the imperial throne, it seems Marcus Aurelius himself never truly harbored a genuine intention to resurrect a republic.
6 Commodus Wasn’t Slain In the Arena
The main highlight of the movie is the thrilling final battle in the arena, a stunning display of choreography that alone elevates this gladiator tale to its peak. In this sequence, Maximus ultimately seeks justice for his loved ones and his guide, Marcus Aurelius, by defeating Commodus. This moment is legendary, though it’s essential to note that the portrayal might not be historically accurate.
Commodus Paid for His Sins, But in Other Ways
Indeed, it’s accurate to say that due to his actions, Commodus earned many adversaries. However, Maximus wasn’t the one who ultimately took his life. In the year 192 AD, Commodus’ mistress, Marcia, attempted to poison him, but he was able to expel the poison from his system. Unfortunately, Marcia’s co-conspirator later ended Commodus’ reign of tyranny by murdering him while he was bathing.
5 “Spaniards” Didn’t Exist In Ancient Rome
In the grand cinematic spectacle I recently witnessed, our protagonist, Maximus, is affectionately known as “The Spaniard.” This moniker stems from his roots in Roman Spain, a detail that might be subtly overlooked given his immersion in the English-speaking world throughout the movie. Despite the lack of overt Spanish influences, Maximus leaves an indelible mark with profound utterances such as “Are you not entertained?” Yet, it’s challenging to disregard this intriguing tidbit about his origins.
Cool Name, But It Shouldn’t Be Used Here
Although Rome had taken over the Iberian Peninsula by the 2nd century, there was no country called Spain at that time. Instead, the region was known as “Hispania,” and it wasn’t an independent entity. Consequently, neither the term “Spaniard” nor Spain existed during this period. The first recorded use of the term “Spaniard” can be traced to the 15th century.
4 The Name “Colosseum” Wasn’t Used During the Era
As a moviegoer immersed in the world of ancient Rome, I’ve always referred to the grand arena where the epic gladiatorial contests unfold as “The Colosseum.” But let me correct myself – during that period, it was officially known as “The Flavian Amphitheatre.” This is due to the fact that the three emperors who oversaw its construction (Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian) were part of the Flavian dynasty.
The Name Would Come Much Later
It wasn’t until the Middle Ages that people started calling the structure the Colosseum. Its seating was arranged according to social status and gender during this time. However, the film depicts both male and female spectators mingling, though this was a reflection of patriarchal society where women were assigned specific areas to sit.
3 Commodus Ruled Together with His Father
Marcus Aurelius attempts to exclude Commodus from the line of leadership, a move that seems entirely justifiable given the circumstances. Initially, he thought he was nurturing a serious and courageous individual, but instead found himself dealing with an imprudent jester whose ideas were at best amusing. However, Marcus Aurelius’ decision to disinherit his son couldn’t have been enacted as they had shared the rule for several years.
Power Wasn’t that Easy to Block
In the movie, Marcus doesn’t actually make that choice until 180 AD, but historically speaking, Commodus had been sharing power with his elderly father since 177 AD. Such a move to dismiss Commodus would have gone against the established order and could have provoked public discontent. Additionally, it’s worth noting that Marcus, in this fictional portrayal, is depicted as a spoiled son who resorted to whining, lying, and screaming to get his way. This contrasts with the historical Commodus, who had already been wielding significant power by 177 AD.
2 Romans Didn’t Go By Their First Names (Like Maximus)
Gladiator could be considered one of Ridley Scott’s finest works, yet it is heavy with historical inaccuracies. For instance, the main character is often called “Maximus” throughout the film. In a memorable scene, he reveals his complete name: “Maximus Decimus Meridius.
Roman Names Had a Particular Pattern
In ancient Rome, most people had three names: a given name, a family name, and an additional name. High-ranking Romans often used their second or third names because they were less common, so Maximus might have been called Decimus or Meridus instead. For instance, Gaius Julius Caesar was more commonly known as “Caesar” rather than “Gaius,” which was a common name. As expected, Commodus’s full name was Lucius Aurelius Commodus, and he too went by his less-common name, Commodus.
1 Commodus Was Obsessed with Mistresses, Not with His Sister
Gladiator overlooks a common understanding in history: while it portrays Commodus as preoccupied with his sister and not interested in concubines, historically, Commodus was known more for his hedonistic lifestyle and numerous mistresses, resembling Caligula more so. The film omits the storyline of the traitorous mistress who played a significant role in Commodus’ life.
A True Roman Playboy
Commodus, known for his fondness for parties and admiration of power, may have had personal struggles, but he was a skilled charmer who often attracted attractive women. His sister held little significance in his life.
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2024-11-16 22:32