Ridley Scott's 'Gladiator' was the first epic film on a Roman subject in 35 years and generated a far-reaching renewal of interest in Roman history and culture. This book analyses 'Gladiator' from historical, cultural and cinematic perspectives.

Ridley Scott's Gladiator was the first epic film on a Roman subject in 35 years and generated a far-reaching renewal of interest in Roman history and culture. This book analyzes Gladiator from historical, cultural, and cinematic perspectives. It comprises ten essays by experts, examining the film as a representation of history and as cinema. Subjects covered include Roman history and gladiatorial combat, the cinematic origins and traditions of Gladiator, and the film's modern social and political overtones. The book also includes translations of the film's most important historical sources.

List of Illustrations.
Notes on Contributors.
Editor's Preface.
1. Gladiator from Screenplay to Screen: Jon Solomon (University of Arizona).
2. Gladiator and the Traditions of Historical Cinema: Martin M. Winkler (George Mason University).
3. Gladiator in Historical Perspective: Allen M. Ward (University of Connecticut-Storrs).
4. The Pedant Goes to Hollywood: The Role of the Academic Consultant: Kathleen M. Coleman (Harvard University).
5. Commodus and the Limits of the Roman Empire: Arthur M. Eckstein (University of Maryland).
6. Gladiators and Blood Sport: David S. Potter (University of Michigan).
7. Gladiator and the Colosseum: Ambiguities of Spectacle: Martin M. Winkler (George Mason University).
8. The Vision of a Fascist Rome in Gladiator: Arthur J. Pomeroy (Victoria University of Wellington).
9. Gladiator and Contemporary American Society: Monica S. Cyrino (University of New Mexico).
10. The Politics of Gladiator: Peter W. Rose (Miami University of Ohio).
11. The Major Ancient Sources:.
Cassius Dio on Commodus.
The Augustan History: Commodus.
Herodian on the Death of Commodus.
Aurelius Victor on Commodus.
Chronology: The Roman Empire at the Time of Commodus.
Further Reading.
Index to Chapters 1-10