Gladiator 2 is the direct sequel to Ridley Scott’s Best Picture-winning epic Gladiatorpicking up several years after the conclusion of the original and following Máximo’s son LĂşcio on his quest for revenge and justice. The film explores Lucius’ journey back to Rome, following in his father’s footsteps and calling for a revolution within the walls of the gladiatorial Colosseum. It’s a fitting and exciting continuation of the original story, using several key callbacks and returning Gladiator characters to give extra weight to the story.
Despite taking place many years after the conclusion of the original film, Gladiator 2 does a great job of staying connected to this original narrative. Maximus’ legacy plays an important role in the storygiving Lucius something to aspire to and continuing the “dream of Rome” which was first spoken by Marco AurĂ©lio in the first film. These callbacks also often come in more subtle forms, with brief quotes and references to Gladiator which take on a new meaning in this context.
“What we do in life echoes in eternity” is said by Maximus in Gladiator 1
The quote is spoken in the opening sequence of Gladiator
Gladiator is known for his iconic quotes and memorable lines, and several of them manage to shine through in the sequel. One of Máximo’s most profound and important lines is said at the beginning of Gladiatoras the Roman Legion prepares for battle against the barbarians in Germania. Speaking to his soldiers, Maximus assures them that “what we do in life echoes in eternity,” teaching them not to fear death as they will be rewarded for their bravery in the next life.
Maximus’ quote comes from Marcus Aurelius
Maximus is not the first to speak the words
Although it is Maximus who speaks the phrase Gladiatorin real life, the quote is often attributed to the immensely popular book by Marcus Aurelius Meditations. The book is a collection of the Emperor’s most private and philosophical thoughts, often reflecting on his own legacy and the importance of one’s purpose in the universe. His words are now the basis of the philosophical movement of Stoicism, which explains why Maximus decided to present them to a group of soldiers potentially facing their own death.
How Maximus’ Quote Connects to Gladiator 2
The words take on a different meaning for Lucius
Maximus’s quote returns in Gladiator 2carved above his cemetery in Rome and found on the lips of several different characters throughout the film. His presence in the story is not just a reference to Marcus Aurelius’ persevering legacy, but rather a commentary on the politics and injustice on display. Words are used as a symbol of democracy and a reminder that the characters are fighting for something bigger than themselves, a trait Lucius clearly shares with his late father.
Although the film is not strictly based on reality, there are several real-life historical figures in it. Gladiator 2 whose presence in the story gives it a much more grounded and authentic sense of scope. Marcus Aurelius was perhaps the most notable example from the first film, so it’s no wonder that his presence is still felt in the immediate sequel – his words are a reminder that almost everyone in the film Gladiator 2 is still working for his “dream of Rome”, a city built on democracy and justice for all.