‘Gladiator II’ exaggerates, but historians say the real-life Colosseum was plenty wild

As a history enthusiast who has spent countless hours poring over ancient texts and artifacts, I must say that “Gladiator II” is a captivating cinematic masterpiece that seamlessly blends historical facts with creative storytelling. The film’s portrayal of the Colosseum and its spectacles, though embellished for dramatic effect, offers a glimpse into the grandeur and brutality of Rome’s past.

Similar to its forerunner, “Gladiator II” draws inspiration from historical events. Yet, this doesn’t necessitate that the film adheres strictly to real-life historical facts.

Currently showing in cinemas is Ridley Scott’s sequel to his 2000 hit “Gladiator”. Titled, this new production focuses on Lucius, portrayed by Paul Mescal, who is the son of Maximus, the warrior character played by Russell Crowe. During the rule of twin emperors Geta and Caracalla, depicted in this film by Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger respectively, the story unfolds. The characters are a blend of real historical figures and fictional ones crafted specifically for this movie.

Just as its forerunner, “Gladiator II” revolves around thrilling gladiatorial matches taking place at the Colosseum, where prisoners such as Lucius are forced to fight other men and ferocious beasts. Intrigued by the fierce battles depicted in the movie, we sought insights from experts about the extravagant events that truly unfolded within the Colosseum’s walls.

There may not have been sharks, but there were sea battles

Although the Colosseum may seem unlikely now as a venue for water battles, scholars affirm that such events indeed took place.

As a cinephile delving into the ancient world, I can’t help but be captivated by Andrew Scott, a distinguished professor of classical studies at Villanova University. He reveals intriguing insights about the games, mentioning that on rare occasions, grand naval battles were staged as part of these events. Yet, while these epic clashes might not have been commonplace, there’s a wealth of evidence to support their existence.

It’s noted that when the Colosseum was initially opened under Emperor Titus’ rule, it hosted historical performances of battles from the 5th century BC at sea. However, long before this, it’s believed that the first Roman emperor, Augustus, had already organized grand sea battles with a large number of participants at another location.

It’s highly improbable that sharks would be found at these ancient naval battles known as naumachiae, as there seems to be no record of such wildlife in historical accounts. As historian Scott mentions, “I can’t recall any ancient source describing this kind of wild life.” The book “The Colosseum,” by Keith Hopkins and Mary Beard, notes that Cassius Dio documented that “horses, bulls, and other domesticated animals” were used during Titus’ aquatic spectacle.

In the coliseum, Dio recounts an account from Augustus’ time where 36 semi-aquatic creatures, similar to crocodiles, were part of a grand spectacle.

In fact, all sorts of animals were part of the show

Scholars often point out that a larger number of animals rather than people took part in performances held in venues such as the Colosseum. These animals were frequently used in mock hunts and public spectacles like executions, and they were sometimes made to fight one another as well.

As stated by Scott, these occurrences provided the emperor with opportunities to exhibit exotic animals from the distant corners of the empire, which were entirely unfamiliar to the people residing in Rome.

In Roman-era entertainment, one could encounter a diverse array of animals such as hippos, elephants, rhinos, bears, ostriches, and large felines like lions and tigers.

“Historian Cassius Dio talks about an animal that he refers to as a cameleopard,” says Scott.

A camel-like leopard might bring to mind an image of a mystical, faraway big cat, yet these creatures were actually referred to by the ancients as “giraffes” due to their resemblance.

Sometimes emperors were gladiators, too

Typically, emperors organized gladiator fights as a means to increase their popularity and display their power. However, at least one emperor took part in these events personally to further enhance his public image.

According to Scott, it’s mentioned that Commodus, the emperor portrayed in the 2000 film “Gladiator,” took part in real-life arena events. A Roman historian named Cassius Dio wrote extensively about Commodus participating in hunting games and even fighting as a gladiator.

The real-life counterparts to “Gladiator II’s” emperors were a slightly different story.

As I delve into the world of historical cinema, I find myself intrigued by the character of Caracalla, particularly in relation to chariot racing. Though we may not find direct evidence of his participation, the ancient texts are rife with tales of his fascination with this exhilarating sport. This leads me to ponder if there might be a blend of imperial grandeur and popular performer’s allure in portraying Caracalla on screen.

Hollywood has nothing on ancient Romans’ own Colosseum stories

It’s not surprising that movies like “Gladiator II” distort historical truths for entertainment purposes, but it’s worth noting that even ancient Roman historians and poets embellished accounts of the many people and animals involved in their arena events. However, some details they omitted might be more startling to modern sensibilities than the combat or hunting simulations themselves.

As stated in “The Colosseum,” it is said that the legendary Roman poet Martial wrote about the initial spectacles within this grand amphitheater featuring performances inspired by mythology. It is believed that one of the early shows depicted the origin story of the Minotaur, a creature half-human and half-bull. This tale was apparently enacted in the arena through a woman and a living beast playing their respective roles.

However, it’s open to interpretation by the readers whether Martial was being literal or merely employing a touch of poetic liberty in his writing.

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2024-11-23 01:01