Character: Marcus Aurelius

- Sorry, you weren't born a man - what would you make a Caesar. You would have been strong. But if you were fair?
- I would be what You would have raised me.

See this map? It is a world created by me. 25 years, I have conquered, spilt blood, expanded the Empire. Since I became Caesar I have known only four years without war. Only four years of peace. And for what? I brought the sword, nothing more.

Once Rome was a sacred dream. About it spoke in a whisper. We were afraid that the dream might disappear - she was so fragile.

- You wrote to me once... the four chief virtues. Wisdom, justice, fortitude and temperance.
I have read and understood that I don't have any of them. But I have other virtues, father. Ambition. Which is a virtue when it drives us to be the first. Resourcefulness. Courage. Perhaps not on the battlefield, but... there are many forms of courage. Dedication... to my family... and you. But my virtues were on your list. Thought you didn't want me to be your son. I sought the help of the gods... wanting to do something nice for you, so you can be proud of me. One kind word, one warm hug... when you hugged me to her breast, and my soul rose the sun. All I wished for... it to be worthy of you, Caesar.
- Your fault as a son... this is my failure as a father. Come to me.
The father. I would have destroyed the whole world... for your love!

The person in the end wants to know that his life had meaning.

- How long you've been home, Maximus?
Two years, 264 days and this morning.

- How can I reward the best generals of Rome?
- Let me go home.