A Roman General that has never been to Rome?
Roman historians may be able to clear up this puzzlement.
1. From the movie, Maximus even though he was a Roman General had never been to Rome until he was captured as a slave. Aurelius said as much to him when he offered him to lead Rome. I find it puzzling. Was it usual for Roman Generals or soldiers to have never visited Rome? It means that if Maximus had never been captured as a slave, it is likely he would never have visited Rome in his life.
2. And if Maximus had never visited Rome, how would he have had an affair with Commodos's sister who most likely would have spent all her life in Rome?