Gladiator 2’s Real-Life Villains, Explained

Gladiator 2's Real-Life Villains, Explained

Summary

Gladiator II
focuses on Lucius Verus, not Maximus, and introduces historical figures Geta and Caracalla as sibling co-emperors.
The trailer hints at a promising ensemble cast, with Denzel Washington as Macrinus playing a key role in Caracalla’s assassination plot.
Ridley Scott may take creative liberties with history in
Gladiator II
, potentially exploring Caracalla’s tyrannical reign and dramatic downfall.

As a history enthusiast with a particular fascination for the Roman Empire, I’ve always been intrigued by the stories of its most notorious rulers – and few can compare to the Cain and Abel-like relationship between Caracalla and Geta. Having studied their lives in depth, I find myself deeply captivated by this tragic sibling rivalry.

I’m thrilled to share some exciting news with you all! After much anticipation and speculation, Ridley Scott is set to treat us once more with the long-awaited sequel to his iconic 2000 Best Picture winner, “Gladiator.” This Thanksgiving, prepare yourselves for another epic journey as we delve back into the captivating world of ancient Rome.

The movie is anticipated to have an engaging cast, with previews suggesting potential stellar acts from actors such as Pedro Pascal and Denzel Washington. However, two actors whose roles are shrouded in mystery are Joseph Quinn as Emperor Geta and Fred Hechinger as Caracalla. Historically, they were briefly co-rulers of Rome, but based on the first film, it appears that Ridley Scott may deviate from historical accuracy if the plot requires it for the portrayal of these characters as antagonists.

Who Were Emperors Geta and Caracalla?

Geta and Caracalla Formed a Sibling Rivalry

I’m a huge history fan, and let me tell you about an intriguing period in Roman history. In the year 188 and 189 AD, two remarkable brothers, Geta and Caracalla, were born to Septimius Severus. At that time, Septimius was serving as a provincial governor under Emperor Commodus.

In the year 209 AD, before his passing, he named his two children as joint emperors of Rome, an act he performed prior to his death. However, this last decision led to a resurgence of the unrest that characterized the reigns of their predecessors. Despite being alive, Caracalla and Geta had difficulty getting along, and when they were granted the most prominent position in the land at a young age, they proved unable to co-rule effectively. Their power struggle intensified.

The Imperial Palace became split between two brothers, Geta and Caracalla, each claiming a half for their residence. Their respective servants were barred from crossing into the other’s territory. The siblings only interacted in the presence of their mother, Julia Domna, who acted as a peacemaker. However, both brothers brought armed guards with them due to fear of assassination attempts. At one instance, they suggested partitioning the empire into two parts for co-rule, but their mother swiftly vetoed the idea.

Over time, the bonds between the two brothers deteriorated irreparably. Caracalla attempted several times to eliminate Geta, but his plans failed each time. Towards the end of 211, Caracalla arranged a peace meeting at Julia Domna’s residence, where Geta was tragically betrayed. With his mother’s permission and his bodyguards absent, members of the Praetorian Guard entered the room and took Geta’s life in her arms. Caracalla then claimed sole power, leaving an indelible mark on history as the Roman Empire’s Cain and Abel.

Caracalla Was a Tyrannical Leader

Gladiator 2's Real-Life Villains, Explained

Caracalla, who ruled the Roman Empire alone, gained an infamous reputation as a tyrant. He frequently ordered mass killings not only in Rome but also throughout the empire. Following Geta’s murder, Caracalla ordered the removal of his brother’s image from all city paintings and had loyalists executed. Despite some legislative achievements during his reign, such as the Antoine Constitution granting Roman citizenship to all free men, Caracalla is mainly remembered in history for his cruelty.

During his rule, the Roman Empire experienced unexpected collapses as early as 216. In an attempt to broaden Rome’s influence, he initiated a disastrous campaign against the neighboring Parthian Empire. Battle after battle resulted in defeat for his troops. Frustrated by his emperor’s reluctance to promote him to centurion, one soldier named Justin Martialis decided to take matters into his own hands. With the support of praetorian prefect Macrinus (portrayed by Denzel Washington in “Gladiator II”), Martialis assassinated his leader. However, his reign was short-lived as he was soon killed in retaliation. Consequently, Macrinus seized the opportunity and ascended to the throne as the new Roman emperor.

How Will Gladiator II Depict Them?

Ridley Scott Could Change History

Having worked as a historian for several years, I’ve come to appreciate the art of storytelling while also maintaining historical accuracy. However, when it comes to Hollywood and movies like “Gladiator,” I’ve learned that sometimes, creative liberties must be taken in order to craft an engaging narrative.

In this week’s preview, the two brothers appeared scarcely, yet their brief appearances hinted at their shared imperial power. Their contentious relationship, which appears ripe for exploration, is an engaging prospect for director Ridley Scott. However, the sneak peek also focuses on Denzel Washington’s portrayal of Macrinus, who allegedly had a role in Caracalla’s murder. The film seems to deviate from historical facts as the real Macrinus was never enslaved. Nevertheless, Macrinus’s thirst for power and control over Rome is an intriguing representation that rings true.

Could the movie possibly depict the murder of Caracalla, even if it’s an imaginative retelling? It’s uncertain at this point, but what a rich historical context Ridley Scott could exploit to create “Gladiator II,” expanding upon the foundation laid by the initial film. We’re excited to discover more when it hits theaters on November 22.

2024-07-16 01:01