If we used the function of the poet or of art in general
in the Aristotelian sense with Scott's film, much can be evoked. Aristotle defines the
purpose of art as the following:
Aristotle is careful to stress that the job of
“the poet” (which later critics have expanded to mean the author of any form of
imaginative literature) is to present portraits of humankind as a means of helping
audiences learn something about
themselves.
Aristotle differs
from Plato in making the argument that art is not a "lie," but rather serves as a
looking glass where empathy and understanding can be aroused through being able to
identify with a particular character. Consider the situation of Maximus as a
representation of this and one can see how Aristotelian conceptions of art is met.
Maximus is shown as an honorable character who must deal with deceit and suffer as a
result of such cruelty. Yet, he does not surrender. Rather, the vision of Maximus as a
survivor is a portrait that allows the viewer to understand how important survival is
and how individuals can overcome in some form the most horrific of events. While
Maximus seeks vengeance, he also understands that his loyalty to Marcus Aurelieus
compels him to bring Rome back to the Senate, driving him towards the end to fulfill
this dream. In this light, the rendering of Maximus' character is one that fulfills
Aristotelian ends in that the viewer understands how to live one's life; that the need
to be loyal and pure of heart, to possess "strength and honor," is a part of human
identity.
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