Was Gladiator's Maximus A Real Person? Historical Influences Explained
Released in 2000, Ridley Scott's Gladiator is an epic film about revenge, loss and justice. It tells the story of Roman general turned gladiator Maximus Decimus Meridius (played by Russell Crowe) who seeks to avenge the death of his family after they were killed by the malicious son of the emperor, Commodus (played by Joaquin Phoenix). Though the film is based on historical events and even features real historical figures, the lead character Maximus was an amalgamation of several Roman historical figures.
Set in 180 AD, Gladiator showcases a well of historical depth. The film demonstrates the world of gladiators and the political games and the military campaigns that were common during that time. The movie's key historical figures include the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius, his aforementioned son Commodus, and daughter Lucilla. The main character Maximus is completely fictional, however. Instead, the creation of this character is influenced by several different historical people, particularly Roman generals, as well as by the gladiators themselves and the life they led.
Related: Gladiator: Why Maximus Has A Wolf In Battle (& What Happened To It?)
One of the biggest influences for the character of Maximus was Roman general Marcus Nonius Macrinus. Marcus was a general, statesman, and advisor during the time of Marcus Aurelius' reign, similar to how Maximus was a general and advisor of Marcus Aurelius in the film. In addition, both Maximus and Marcus were admired and well-liked by the emperor. Another influence is Avidius Cassius, a Roman general who gained prominence under Marcus Aurelius and at one point, declared himself emperor after receiving reports — albeit false — of Aurelius' death. A third influence, though minor,
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