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Gladiator

David Franzoni

Gladiator tells the powerful story of Maximus Decimus Meridius, a Roman general betrayed by the corrupt emperor Commodus. After refusing to support Commodus's claim to the throne, Maximus is condemned to death, only to survive and be sold into slavery. As a gladiator, he rises through the ranks, driven by his desire for vengeance and justice. Maximus's legendary combat skills and unwavering integrity make him a symbol of hope for the people, while Commodus grows increasingly paranoid about his popularity. In a final confrontation in the Colosseum, Maximus defeats Commodus and fulfills his promise to restore Rome to a republic. His sacrifice and legacy of honor leave an indelible mark on history. Gladiator is a gripping tale of betrayal, revenge, and the enduring power of courage, showing that one man's fight for justice can change the course of an empire.

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Words you’ll meet

The words readers of this text looked up most, each with its meaning and the line it comes from.

commanding / kəˈmændɪŋ /adjective

Having or expressing authority or power; imposing

The general had a commanding presence.

authoritativeimposingimpressive

confides / kənˈfaɪdz /verb

To tell someone about a secret or private matter while trusting them not to repeat it to others

Marcus Aurelius confides in him regarding his secret concerns for the empire.

to trust with a secretto discloseto unburden oneself

resolve / rɪˈzɒlv /noun

The firm intention or determination to achieve a specific goal or course of action

His resolve to succeed never wavered despite the many obstacles he faced.

determinationfirmness of purposewillpowersteadfastness

assert / əˈsɜːrt /verb

To state a fact or belief confidently and forcefully

The witness continued to assert his innocence.

declaremaintainclaim

implores / ɪmˈplɔːrz /verb

To beg someone earnestly or desperately to do something

The emperor implores Maximus to accept this burden.

begbeseechentreatplead with

remains / rɪˈmeɪnz /verb

To continue to be in a specified state or condition

His hold on power remains unshaken.

staypersistcontinue

treachery / ˈtrɛtʃəri /noun

The act of betraying someone or something; a violation of allegiance or of faith and confidence

The alliance crumbled because of his treachery.

betrayalperfidydisloyalty

decisive / dɪˈsaɪsɪv /adjective

Having the power or quality of settling a question or dispute; conclusive

Maximus countered with one final, decisive blow.

conclusivepivotaldefinitive

determination / dɪˌtɜːrmɪˈneɪʃn /noun

The quality of being firm in one's purpose; resoluteness

Maximus leads with unwavering determination.

resolvetenacitysteadfastness

to thrive / tuː θraɪv /verb

To grow or develop well or vigorously; to prosper

Plants often thrive in warm, humid climates.

flourishprosperbloom

defiance / dɪˈfaɪəns /noun

Open resistance; bold disobedience

Maximus's defiance.

resistancerebellioninsubordination

a testament / ə ˈtɛstəmənt /noun

A fact, event, or object that proves or shows clearly that something exists or is true

The monument is a testament to the bravery of soldiers.

proofevidencewitness

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