Gladiator Scene Analysis

This shot depicts Maximus's reaction to all the carnage around him after the battle is over. While the battle was won, Maximus is not celebrating as though he has won some great victory that will bring about a lasting peace. On the contrary Maximus looks appalled by the carnage that he see's all around him. His face appears darkened and even slightly mangled by the battle he just fought. He looks like a man who has suffered from the violence just like the rest of his men. In my opinion what this scene depicts is that Maximus is not a conflict first sort of a man. I think this scene tells us that he is an ordinary man who simply cares for his farm and his family. In addition it also shows that Maximus cares for his soldiers and men who are under his command and that he feels responsible for them. Overall the shot is used to portray Maximus as an ordinary man even though he holds the distinction of being one of Rome's best generals.