The movie Gladiator tells the life of Maximus Decimus Meridas throughout his riches, rags, and then back to riches story line. Maximus, a general, is chosen to be heir of the Roman Empire, over the son of the Emperor himself. Such an arrangement was not agreed to lightly. Fighting for the future royalty position occurs, and Maximus eventually loses the struggle. He escapes immediate execution, but not before his loved ones are murdered.
Maximus begins to train as a gladiator in slave conditions. It is only through this road of trials that he is able to overthrow the corrupt leadership in Rome. He also calls upon the support of Lucilla, the movie's love interest. Maximus becomes an extremely popular gladiator. The climax of the movie is when Maximus fights Commodus (the son to the late Emperor) for the Roman Empire in the gladiator ring. Maximus is battling to avenge the death of his family members, and to "out" the corrupt leadership that is ruining traditional Roman values.
Just my luck, is it not? As the ghost of my father said, I must avenge his murder by committing the same act on my Uncle. I know, in my heart, this is my duty just as Maximus in Gladiator was convinced as well.
Oh how I feel for Maximus! He must feel positively horrendous knowing a cold-blooded killer is emperor of a great nation, and that only he himself can fix the mess. It is a giant weight on his shoulders much like I have been "prompted to my revenge by heaven and hell" (2.2.547). Of course, Maximus is a fighter, with his strength unmatched. Words, however, are my greatest weapon. How am I to remove the crown off Claudius' head? "Am I a coward?" (2.2.530) Am I truly capable of fulfilling the final wish of my perfect father? We shall hope I am, otherwise Denmark shall be permanently rotten.
I must be strong, not just for all involved, but for my own well-being. Maximus never wavered, never portraying himself to be in compromising situations. He struck ultimate fear in the eyes of his enemy, Commodus, when he stated, "I think you have been afraid all your life" before battle. I can learn from this great man! Instead I am acting like a weak individual,"Must, like a whore, unpack my heart with words" (2.2.548). Now is a time for action.
Perhaps the idea I have is correct. I shall make my Uncle sit through a play similar to my father's murder. "If he do blench, I know my course" (2.2.560-561). Then I know this man is truly a murderer, How ironic, a play originally designed to entertain Claudius could be used to incite fear against the power structure. Are you not entertained?
Of course, Maximus knew for a fact that Commodus is an enemy to the state, as he was around to know Commodus murdered his family. The only 'proof' I possess is anecdotal evidence from my father's ghost. For all I know, it "May be the devil, and the devil hath power T' assume a pleasing shape" (2.2.561-562). I need to be certain of my next decision and proceed with caution, so I do not join father in purgatory, or worse, hell.
Should I continue my pursuit in avenging father's death, similar to Maximus? Or is revenge a dish best served not at all? How should I respond in this crucial moment in my life? All comments and suggestions are greatly appreciated.
Evidence: "You could, for a need, study a speech of some dozen or sixteen lines which I would set down and insert in ’t, could you not?" (2.2.500-503).
Tweet:
@FirstPlayer You are very good actors...I expect a good performance tomorrow! #Denmark #ontheline
Evidence: "My lord, we were sent for" (2.2.250).
Tweet:
@myfriends Quit spying on me for others. I know you too well #notmad #justdisappointed
Evidence: "What, are they children?" (2.2.321).
Tweet:
@childactors Go back to coloring books and arithmetic! #AdultsAct
Evidence: "A goodly one, in which there are many confines, wards, and dungeons, Denmark being one o' th' worst" (2.2.230).
Tweet:
@mother Still not happy #yourfault #quitpartying
Evidence: "If he do blench, I know my course" (2.2.560-561).
Tweet:
@TheKing I am watching you #YouKnowWhatYouDid #prepareforwar
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