Maximus is a general in the Roman army. After his last battle he wants to return to his family. But the new Emperor Commodus hates Maximus, and kills his family. Soon Maximus is a prisoner, then a slave, and finally a gladiator. When Emperor Commodus joins Maximus in the arena they fight for their lives. Level 4 (Intermediate, 1700 headwords). Penguin Readers are simplified texts which provie a step-by-step approach to the joys of reading for pleasure. Anglický text.