The “Real” Gladiator...

Marcus Aurelius: Emperor of Rome 161-180 CE Also a philosopher; Wrote “The Meditations” Really did wage battles along the northern frontier Had a co-emperor: Lucius Verus, who was his adoptive brother and also husband to his daughter, Lucilla (This was a period when Rome would have two consuls/emperors to avoid a dictator.) The real Aurelius did die during these wars, some believe by his son’s hand, but it is also believed he simply died of the plague.

Maximus: Not a real character Seems to be a composite of several historical figures, including: -Aurelius’ general Avidius Cassius, who really was involved in the battle you see in the opening scenes. The real Cassius declared himself emperor after Aurelius’ death. -There was later a general named Maximus who seemed to have “revolutionary” intentions. -Spartacus was a slave who led his fellow slaves in a battle against their captors. Maximus seems to also reflect some of that person.

Commodus: Really the son of Marcus Aurelius Proclaimed joint emperor at age 17 in 177 CE Was hated by the Senate and loved by the lower classes and the army Some accuse him of being “off in the head” He renamed Rome: Rome Colonia Commodiana He declared himself the “New Romulus” He claimed to be a descendent of Hercules Loved to fight as a gladiator His opponents would not really fight back He was assassinated by his wrestling coach He ruled for 12 years

Lucilla: Really was sister to Commodus She was married to Lucius Verus, co-emperor with Marcus Aurelius (her father) Commodus loved her, she hated him She conspired against Commodus, tried to have him assasinated For this she was banished to the island of Capreae Shortly thereafter she was executed It was Commodus’ other sisters he had sexual relations with, probably not Lucilla, as the movie portrays