Gladiator, Level 4, Penguin Readers (2nd Edition) (Penguin Readers, Level 4)

Contemporary / American English (Available April 2008) 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.