Steven Watts- Gladiator

In the film, Gladiator, the director provides a religious perspective, through the character Maximus, about the ideal of dedication and sacrafice for what is right and what he truly loves. Although Maximus was not being persecuted for a religious belief, his trials and hardships and very easily be related to that of the persecution of christians and other religions throughout history. In any religion, at some point in history, there has been some form of unwarranted persecution placed upon its people, but the ability to hold strong in the beliefs and faith has allowed for many religions to prosper. In the same way that Maximus was held captive because of selfish motives, he is a prime example of holding strong to his beliefs and desires and not letting anything get in the way of them. Even though this was not the intention of this movie from the outside, I believe that it conveys an important lesson that is relatable to all forms of religion. Hold fast to what you believe, and no matter what do not change in order to appeal to someone who stands in opposition to your beliefs.