By: Amanda Wininger
Maximus the main character in Gladiator expresses many values. One of the core values throughout the movie he displays is family. The characters in the movie Gladiator have different ambitions and motives, and it is obvious that Maximus is motivated by honoring his family and his ancestors. In the movie, Maximus is motivated by his son and wife, shown by the figurines that he prays to each night. During his nightly prayers, he also prays to his ancestors to watch over his family and himself. The corrupt Roman Emperor, Commodus is motivated by his personal glory and jealousy. We witness this while Commodus tries to seduce his sister and longs for his father's approval.
In the opening scene right before the battle, from Gladiator, Maximus is dragging his hands through a wheat field. This is a recurring image throughout the movie, the audience is would eventually see this image again, but the second time would be viewed more as a symbol of Maximus reuniting with his family. This image appears again following the death of Commodus' father, when Maximus is told his wife and son would be executed, just like him. We see the image for the last time while Maximus is dying in the arena. In the distance, Maximus can see his wife and son, demonstrating that Maximus achieved his final victory by reuniting with his family.