"What we do in life echoes in eternity."
Gladiator - Movie Quotes
Memorable Quotes
My name is Maximus Decimus Meridius, commander of the Armies of the North, General of the Felix Legions, loyal servant to the true emperor, Marcus Aurelius. Father to a murdered son, husband to a murdered wife. And I will have my vengeance, in this life or the next.
— Maximus Decimus Meridius
Context:
After winning a battle in the Colosseum, Maximus is ordered by Commodus to reveal his identity. He removes his helmet and delivers this powerful speech directly to the shocked emperor, in front of all of Rome, sealing his own fate while simultaneously becoming a legend to the people.
Meaning:
This is the film's most iconic quote, encapsulating Maximus's entire identity, loss, and unwavering purpose. It is a declaration of defiance and a vow of vengeance that transforms him from an anonymous slave, "the Spaniard," back into the powerful figure he once was. It signifies the moment his private war becomes public.
Are you not entertained? Are you not entertained? Is this not why you are here?
— Maximus Decimus Meridius
Context:
After effortlessly slaughtering several opponents in the arena in a provincial town, Maximus throws his sword into the stands in disgust as the crowd cheers wildly. He confronts them directly with these questions, showing his contempt for the spectacle of death.
Meaning:
This quote is a powerful indictment of the audience's, both in the film and in the cinema, thirst for violence. Maximus expresses his disgust for the bloodsport he is forced to participate in, challenging the Roman crowd's morality. He has just killed for their pleasure, and he throws their celebration back in their faces, exposing the brutal nature of their entertainment.
What we do in life, echoes in eternity.
— Maximus Decimus Meridius
Context:
Maximus says this to his troops just before the opening battle against the Germanic tribes. It's a line meant to inspire them to fight with honor and courage, knowing that their deeds will be remembered forever.
Meaning:
This line speaks to the film's central theme of legacy. Maximus believes that a person's actions have lasting significance beyond their mortal life. It serves as his guiding principle, influencing him to fight not just for personal revenge but for the future of Rome, ensuring his life and death have a meaningful impact.
Today I saw a slave become more powerful than the Emperor of Rome.
— Lucilla
Context:
Lucilla says this to Senator Gracchus after Maximus wins the crowd over by sparing the life of his defeated opponent, Tigris of Gaul. The crowd's adoration for "Maximus the Merciful" forces Commodus's hand, revealing the emperor's weakness and Maximus's growing influence.
Meaning:
Lucilla articulates a key turning point in the film. She recognizes that Maximus, through his honor and connection with the people, has seized a form of power that Commodus, despite his title, can never possess. It highlights the theme that true power comes from the will of the people, not from tyrannical decree.