... of the late emperor Marcus Aurelius. Maximus is motivated by the desire to defend his family and the prosperous way of life that Roman imperialism provides. Whereas Commodus proves that the masses enjoy bread and circuses, Maximus in the end gains support from the masses by displaying ... is for the people by the people. With a central character grounded by family, religion, and a pledge of loyalty to the dream of a Roman Republic, the film allows time for thematic and moral issues to draw attention to themselves. It does eventually boil down to a fairly conventionally war resolution in ...

• Word Count: 1374
• Approx Pages: 5
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

My name is Maximus; I am a general in the Great Roman Army. We are currently at war. I serve the Great Caesar. I have not seen my family in 264 days. My family consists of my wife and my wife and my son ... a battle against the barbarians. I told my men that the only way we could win is if we were to function as a unit. We did and we won. We defeated the Roman soldiers. After the victory Emperor Commidus asked to meet me. I turned my back to the Emperor when he asked me to reveal myself. Then I revealed myself and when I showed my ... her friend the senator. We arranged for me to meet up wi...

• Word Count: 1383
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: High School