ARCHIMEDES OF SYRACUSE
by
Monte R. Anderson
Based on the novel,
Archimedes of Syracuse: Leonardo da Vinci’s Mentor
By Monte R. Anderson
Monte R. Anderson 711 Wall Street
Elmira, NY 14905
(607) 215-4439
FADE IN:
EXT. SICILY - IN A GRAVEYARD - DAY
CICERO and the MAYOR of Syracuse stand with a group of men with garden tools.
MAYOR
Questor Cicero, Are you sure his tomb is here? I tell you I never heard of the man.
CICERO
Yes, I am sure. I read about it a history of the capture of Syracuse.
MAYOR
That was a long time ago. Perhaps the tomb was destroyed.
CICERO
Perhaps.
Cicero sees the top of a tomb surrounded and hidden by bushes of brambles and thorns. On top of the tomb is cylinder.
CICERO
(pointing)
There!
The Mayor orders some of the men to clear a path through the brambles with sickles. Cicero and the Mayor sit down on a large tombstone to wait.
MAYOR
Who was this Archimedes?
CICERO
Ah! Let me enlighten you. He was the most intelligent man who ever lived, and your city should be proud to claim him as a native son.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
INT. THRONE ROOM OF KING HIERON OF SYRACUSE - DAY
King HIERON is standing by a table looking at a gold crown. There is a gold bar on the table. ARCHIMEDES enters.
ARCHIMEDES
(bowing)
You sent for me, sire?
HIERON
Ah, Archimedes. Yes, I have work for you.
(sniffing)
When was the last time you took a bath? This is no way to present yourself to your king. Did not your father teach you anything about court manners? Even the gods in heaven would be offended.
ARCHIMEDES
Yes, sire. My father was very thorough. However, I seem to get absorbed in my work, and I forget about everything else. Sometimes I even forget to eat.
HIERON
Well, I do not care if you eat, but I would appreciate it if you took a bath more frequently and use some ointments or perfumes.
ARCHIMEDES
Yes, sire. Is that the nature of our business today?
HIERON
(angry)
Archimedes, do not forget your place!
(beat)
Here is the problem.
(holding up crown)
To celebrate my victories and being crowned king, I had commissioned to have this gold crown made. I intended to give it to the Temple of Zeus to thank the god for supporting me. However, I have reason to believe that I have been cheated.
ARCHIMEDES
Interesting. Why do you think you have been cheated, sire?
HIERON
I commissioned a certain goldsmith to make this crown and supplied the gold. The work is exquisite. I was informed that he frequently removes some gold and replaces the it with silver. Can you tell me if any of the gold is missing?
ARCHIMEDES
Do you know exactly how much gold you gave him?
HIERON
(handing the gold bar to Archimedes)
Yes, it was a gold bar like this one; exactly the same.
ARCHIMEDES
Well, sire, if you melt down the crown, any silver will separate from the gold, and you will know.
HIERON
No, Archimedes. This is a work of art. Look at it! What if we destroy it and it turns out to be solid gold? No, no, it must not be damaged in anyway. That is the problem. I want you to tell me if this is solid gold without destroying it. Can you do it?
ARCHIMEDES
I do not know, sire. Let me think about it. Lend me this bar of gold to study, and I will try to figure out a way.
Hieron hands to bar of gold to Archimedes and dismisses him with a wave of his hand. Archimedes bows and starts to back out of the room.
HIERON
Archimedes! I have another bar exactly like that one, and I expect to get every bit of that gold back.
Archimedes exits.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
INT. ARCHIMEDES’S WORKSHOP - DAY
Models and gadgets surround Archimedes. He tests the gold bar and takes notes.
A servant enters and places a tray of food on the bench by Archimedes. Archimedes ignores him and the food.
LAGUS, Archimedes’s personal servant, enters carrying a basket of towels and bath oils.
LAGUS
Sir, you must take a bath tonight before supper. I heard that you offended the King today with your body odor. I must insist.
ARCHIMEDES
Not now, Lagus. I am in the middle of looking for a solution to a problem for the King.
LAGUS
I knew you would say that, so I have figured out a way for you to continue to work while you bathe.
ARCHIMEDES
Oh? What have you done?
LAGUS
I made a box made, filled it with fine sand, and set the box next to the bath. You can draw your designs and calculations in the sand while I scrub you. Later, if you want, whatever you design in the sand, I will copy.
ARCHIMEDES
(standing and picking up the gold bar)
This I have to see.
Archimedes and Lagus exit.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
INT. PUBLIC BATHHOUSE IN SYRACUSE - DAY
Men are bathing and talking in the bath. Archimedes and Lagus enter. The BATH MASTER waddles over. They have a brief discussion and the Bath Master leads them into a private bath sunk into the floor with steps leading down into it. Next to the bath is a box of sand.
BATH MASTER
(pointing)
I have followed your instructions word for word.
LAGUS
Perfect!
ARCHIMEDES
Interesting! I think this will work.
Lagus and Archimedes undress and enter the bath. Lagus places his bath supplies within reach. Archimedes places the gold bar next to the box and starts making calculations in the sand. Lagus begins to scrub him. When Lagus climbs out of the bath to retrieve some oil Archimedes sees the change in the water level. As Lagus returns to the bath, Archimedes watches the water level rise.
ARCHIMEDES
(shouting)
Stop!
Lagus freezes. Archimedes waits for the water surface to settle, and draws a line at the water line.
ARCHIMEDES
(shouting)
Get out!
Lagus obeys. Again, Archimedes waits for the water to calm down, and draws another line at the new water level. Then Archimedes climbs out very slowly, trying not to disturb the water. He goes over to his previous marks, and marks the new water level. Then he reenters the water very slowly, and observes the rise in the water.
ARCHIMEDES
Come back in slowly.
Lagus obeys, imitating Archimedes’s slow movements. Archimedes watches the water rise.
ARCHIMEDES
Get me a large bowl! No, no! Bring two large bowls. One must fit inside the other. Hurry!
Bath Master enters. Lagus talks to the Bath Master who exits and then enters with two wooden bowls. Archimedes experiments with the bowls. Lagus starts to collect his things and puts them into the basket.
ARCHIMEDES
(shouting)
Eureka!
SERIES OF SHOTS – ARCHIMEDES DISCOVERS THE LAW OF BUOYANCY
A) Archimedes bolts out of the bath, heading for the door. Lagus grabs his own tunic, and pulls it on while picking up Archimedes’s clean tunic.
B) The Bath Master enters. Lagus yells something to the Bath Master and points at the bar of gold.
C) Archimedes running naked in the street followed by Lagus. People scream or laugh.
D) Lagus grabs Archimedes by his hair and stops. Archimedes loses his balance, falling backward onto his butt.
BACK TO SCENE
ARCHIMEDES
Lagus! What are you doing? Let me go! I have to tell the King. I know how to determine if the crown is solid gold.
LAGUS
Master, if you go like this, the King will have you arrested. You have no clothes on.
ARCHIMEDES
(looking down)
Oh! Oh! Where are my clothes?
LAGUS
(helping Archimedes get dressed)
Put on your tunic. Besides, the King is probably dining at this hour. Later, when you are properly dressed, you can tell the King.
ARCHIMEDES
Yes, yes, of course. I still have to test my theory on the crown.
LAGUS
That is right. We must be presentable for the King. Now let me help you up and get you home. We will get the gold bar from the bath on the way.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
INT. KING HIERON’S THRONE ROOM - DAY
King Hieron is sitting on his throne. Archimedes enters.
HIERON
Ah, Archimedes, did you find a way to determine if my crown is solid gold or not?
ARCHIMEDES
Well, sire, gold has a different density from silver. That is why gold is so much heavier than silver. I discovered that if I measured...
HIERON
(interrupting)
Archimedes! You do this to me all the time. Do not bore me with details. Just tell me if the crown is solid gold or not.
ARCHIMEDES
It is not. As you suspected, some gold has been replaced with silver.
HIERON
I thought so, but I had to be sure. I will have the goldsmith arrested. I will confiscate all his gold and cut off his thumbs.
ARCHIMEDES
But, sire. If you do that, he will not be able to ply his trade.
HIERON
So be it. He can beg in the streets for all I care. It will serve as an example for others to be honest with me. You have rendered me a great service. Thank you.
HIERON
I have another task for you. I know that you have been studying floating bodies. I want you to get with BARNACLE, the sea merchant, and build the greatest ship ever built.
ARCHIMEDES
What type of ship?
HIERON
It will be a gift for King PTOLEMY for the feast of his father, the first King of Alexandria. King Ptolemy has been a loyal ally, and has supported me in all my efforts. It must be a fitting gift. I was thinking of a merchant ship, perhaps, but something big. Make it the fastest and biggest ship ever built.
ARCHIMEDES
Your word is law.
Archimedes bows and exits.
MONTAGE
-- INT. ARCHIMEDES’S WORK SHOP - DAY -- Archimedes and Barnacle planning the ship with scale models.
-- EXT. BEACH - DAY -- Building on the shore begins.
-- INT. PUBLIC BATH – NIGHT -- Archimedes launches model ships while Lagus washes him. People gather to watch and laugh.
-- EXT. BEACH - DAY -- Construction on the ship continues. The ship has three masts and keels attached to each side. Archimedes installs a system of pulleys to help the crew to raise the sails quickly.
-- EXT. BEACH - DAY -- The construction is complete. The ship has five banks of oars, two towers on each side to ward off pirates. The towers double as platforms for the cargo cranes.
-- INT. INSIDE SHIP – DAY – Archimedes and Barnacle give King Hieron a tour of the ship. There are a dozen rooms: guest rooms, a bath, and a small temple.
-- EXT. BEACH - DAY -- Workmen try to pull the ship into the water, but it is too heavy for them. They add more slaves, but the ship is still too heavy.
-- INT. KING’S PALACE - DAY-- The King sees this from his balcony.
END MONTAGE
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
INT. KING HIERON’S THRONE ROOM - DAY
King Hieron sits at a table with a model of the new ship. Barnacle and Archimedes enter and bow.
HIERON
Archimedes, it is fine looking ship. I do not want to destroy it or damage it trying to float it. Perhaps we should dig a trench around it with dikes, and flood it until it floats.
ARCHIMEDES
Your highness, that is not necessary. I have figured out a way to launch the ship.
HIERON
But how? It is too heavy.
ARCHIMEDES
Sire, there is nothing on earth that cannot be moved. Given another earth, a lever long enough, and enough room, I could move the earth itself by myself.
HIERON
You are a pain in the butt sometimes, but I am not letting you get away with that remark. I want to have the ship floating in one week, and I want to see you pull it into the water by yourself.
ARCHIMEDES
Yes, sire. Your word is law.
Archimedes and Barnacle bow and back out of the room.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
INT. ON THE SEA SHORE NEAR THE NEW SHIP - DAY
A large CROWD has gathered to watch. On the beach is the apparatus to launch the ship. Dozens of ropes are tied to special loopholes along the deck, sides, and masts of the ship. Each rope passes through a series of compound pulley. One final rope goes to two thrones on the shore.
Archimedes stands at a table looking at drawings.
King Hieron and Queen PHILISTIS enter. Archimedes asks King Hieron and Queen Philistia to sit on the thrones. Grudgingly, King Hieron and the queen march to the throne and sits down, shaking sand out of their sandals.
SERIES OF SHOTS — ON THE BEACH—DAY
A) Archimedes picks up a rope and pulls the slack out of the rope.
B) Barnacle darts back and forth from one side of the ship to the other checking support beams, ropes, and pulleys. He trips and falls face first in the sand. The crowd roars with laughter.
C) Archimedes continues to pull on the rope. The crowd continues to laugh and snicker.
D) The ship starts to stir, slowly at first but as Archimedes continues to pull it picks up speed.
F) The crowd hushes and pushes closer. As the ship starts to move, they start to cheer.
G) The King leaps out of his throne in the excitement, jumps up and down, and claps his hands. He hugs Archimedes, and slaps him on the back several times.
BACK TO SCENE
HIERON
We have done it! We have done it!
BARNACLE
(mouthing the word)
We?
ARCHIMEDES
(handing the rope to the King)
Of course we have, sire. Here, you try.
The King takes the rope in both hands.
ARCHIMEDES
No, sire. Try it sitting down and just use one hand.
Hieron sits down and takes the rope in one hand. The crowd grows quiet again in anticipation.
ARCHIMEDES
(shouting)
Pull, sire!
The King pulls the rope. The crowd cheers as the ship resumes its journey toward the water. He pulls again, and the crowd cheers louder.
CROWD
(chanting)
Pull! Pull!
The King pulls one arm’s length after another, faster and faster. The ship comes up onto the ramp, and begins to slide into the water under its own weight, but the King keeps pulling the rope. The crowd rushes the King and Archimedes, patting them on the back and cheering. Finally, the King raises his arms to silent the crowd. He motions for Archimedes and Barnacle to stand next to him.
HIERON
Citizens of Syracuse, today you are witness to the greatness of Syracuse, and the wisdom of Archimedes. There is no other engineer in the world as great as Archimedes. From this day forth, we will believe anything that Archimedes says. When he says it can be done, it will be done. His word is law. This is a great day for Syracuse!
(to Archimedes)
Archimedes, I confess that I thought you had made an idle boast, but you were right. I was wrong. You have earned my trust and my friendship.
ARCHIMEDES
Thank you, my Lord.
HIERON
I am sending you to Alexandria as soon as this ship is ready to sail. I want Barnacle to go with you. He will train the crew from Alexandria. You can visit the Library and the Museum. Stay as long as King Ptolemy desires.
ARCHIMEDES
Your word is law.
PHILISTIS
Nephew, may I offer you a word of advice?
ARCHIMEDES
Of course, your Highness. I would welcome any advice from you.
PHILISTIS
Well, I think this trip to Alexandria is a great opportunity for you. You are not getting any younger, and I think you should consider taking a wife while you are in Alexandria.
ARCHIMEDES
Yes, aunt, but why Alexandria and not here in Syracuse?
PHILISTIS
I am concerned for your wellbeing. The truth is, I have been seeking a suitable wife for you for a number of years since your father died, and I have had no success. The women in Syracuse know of you and your reputation, and, frankly, they consider you,-how shall I say this without offense-somewhat, well, eccentric.
King Hieron begins to chuckle.
PHILISTIS
I have even gone to other cities but to no avail. Suitable women soon find out about you. I am afraid I have not been able to find you a wife anywhere in Sicily.
ARCHIMEDES
I am sorry, your Highness. I did not mean to put you to so much trouble.
PHILISTIS
That is not the point. You are family. I think you may have the opportunity to find a wife. I should go with you to help, but I must stay here. You will have to be on your best behavior, and make an impressive appearance.
ARCHIMEDES
What do you mean?
PHILISTIS
Well, for example, do not go running down the streets naked and do not forget to bathe. Try to meet with people and socialize. Do not work so hard. Enjoy your visit and make new friends.
ARCHIMEDES
I have many friends in Alexandria already - many scholars.
PHILISTIS
I mean outside of the Museum.
ARCHIMEDES
I will try, aunt Philistis.
PHILISTIS
And another thing, shave your beard. It will make you look years younger. You are a good-looking man, but who can see it? Women are attracted to smooth faces.
ARCHIMEDES
But I will be meeting with scholars from the Museum. Surely…
PHILISITS
(interrupting)
You will not find a wife in the Museum or Library. You can discuss your mathematics with the scholars after you marry and let your beard grow, but for now, shave off your beard! That is a command!
ARCHIMEDES
Sire, please...
HIERON
(snickering)
Do not drag me into this. My advice is to do whatever she says. That is what I do. If you do not, you will never hear the end of it, and you probably will not ever get married. Just do it.
ARCHIMEDES
Yes, your highness. Your word is law.
HIERON
Archimedes, my friend, I think she may be right. You are representing Syracuse, and we want you to look your best. I have heard that the women in Alexandria are beautiful. Beside, it is a great opportunity for you. King Ptolemy himself has requested your presence. You can study at the great Library and meet the greatest minds in the world. Then you can return, and share that knowledge with Syracuse.
ARCHIMEDES
I look forward to it.
HIERON
You will sail for Alexandria in time for the Feast of Ptolemy I.
PHILISTIS
And shave off your beard!
ARCHIMEDES
(bows)
Your word is law.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
SERIES OF SHOTS: ARCHIMEDES ARRIVES IN ALEXANDRIA — DAY
A) The city of Alexandria seen from the sea. The lighthouse comes into view. It is built on an island in the center of a large bay. Behind the lighthouse is a long causeway connecting the island with the mainland, creating two harbors.
B) Closer view of lighthouse. The tower has three tiers; a lower tier that is a quadrangular, a second tier that is octagonal, and a third tier that is cylindrical. Near the top are statues of Zeus and Poseidon.
C) The ship sails past the lighthouse into the large main harbor. The sails are trimmed. The keels are raised and locked alongside as the ship glides past reefs on the left and docks on the right.
D) A view of the harbor crowded with ships from Spain and Africa and junks from China.
E) A long pier is crowded with spectators as the ship sails pass. The ship docks. The crowd cheers.
BACK TO SCENE
Archimedes and Barnacle stand at side rail of the ship overlooking the dock as the crew unloads supplies.
BARNACLE
(pointing)
There it is, the Queen of the Mediterranean.
A Greek OFFICIAL comes up the gangplank and approaches Barnacle and Archimedes.
OFFICIAL
I am here to collect all your scrolls and papyri.
ARCHIMEDES
Why? What will you do with them?
OFFICIAL
It is our law, sir. We collect all books and documents and take them to the Library.
ARCHIMEDES
I meant to keep them with me. These are the only copies I have of my work.
CONON (O. C.)
(yelling)
It is all right, Archimedes
CONON enters up the gangplank in a long robe using a walking stick coming. Conon quickly walks over to Archimedes
CONON (CONT’D)
It is I, my friend, Conon of Samos.
Conon seizes Archimedes in a bear hug that takes Archimedes’s breath away.
ARCHIMEDES
Conon! You are Conon?
CONON
Yes, my distant friend. Finally, we meet. You are pretty much as I expected, except I thought you would have a beard.
ARCHIMEDES
Yes, well, Queen Philistis suggested, or rather commanded me to shave. And you! You look much different from what I thought. Barnacle, this is Conon, the famous mathematician from the Museum. This is the person that I have been writing to for years, and you have carried all my letters to him.
BARNACLE
(grumbling)
We have met.
OFFICIAL
(interrupting)
Sir, if you please?
CONON
By decree of King Ptolemy, King of Egypt, all visitors to the city must surrender all books and scrolls to this official who will take them to be copied by our official scribes. The originals are put into the Library, and the copies will be returned to you. This is how we expand the Library. It is a simple system, but it works. Now, please tell one of your servants to get all your papyri and models too, if you have any.
ARCHIMEDES
I do, but please be careful! You say the copies will be returned to me. Why not the originals?
CONON
The scribes do not always understand what they copy. Many cannot read. Mistakes are made. It is better to have the originals. That was my idea.
ARCHIMEDES
When will I get them back?
CONON
In a day or two. We have many scribes. But you, my friend, are the guest of King Ptolemy. You will be staying in the palace for now. I will send one of my slaves to pick up all your baggage.
Archimedes instructs one of his servants to gather the documents, and the official follows the servant below deck.
CONON
Come. More people are waiting to meet you.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
EXT. THE ROYAL DOCK IN ALEXANDRIA - DAY
Archimedes and Conon enter walking down the gangplank onto the dock. At the end of the gangplank are THEON, STOBAEUS, and ERASTESTHENES on their knees, bowing with outstretched arms as if worshiping a god.
THEON, STOBAEUS, AND ERASTESTHENES
Oh great Archimedes. Oh great Archimedes.
CONON
(laughing)
Do you see the type of people I am forced to work with? No one can teach donkeys. Get up, you asses, before these guards arrest you all for impersonating members of the Museum.
Theon, Stobaeus, and Erastesthenes stand up grinning.
CONON (CONT’D)
Archimedes, allow me to introduce these clowns to you. Here we have Theon, Stobaeus and Erastesthenes. I believe you corresponded with all of them.
ARCHIMEDES
Yes, yes, of course. How great it is to finally meet the three of you. Conon, could I please see the Great Library? I have heard so much about it.
CONON
But of course. I knew you would want to. It is right next to the palace and Museum.
ARCHIMEDES
How many books and documents are in the Library?
THEON
Thousands and growing day by day. We have surpassed the Library of Pergamum. We not only collect books from people like you, but we also write them ourselves.
Conon leads Archimedes and the others through the cheering crowd. Archimedes Conon, Theon, Stobaeus and Erastesthenes exit.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
SERIES OF SHOTS – ARCHIMEDES VISITS THE LIBRARY - DAY
A) Archimedes, Conon, Theon, Stobaeus, and Erastesthenes enter the Library. White marble lines the walls.
B) Conon points out the various halls.
C) Archimedes sees the hall for mathematics and races into it followed by the others. Shelves fill the hall from floor to ceiling. Each shelf bares stacks of scrolls with the name of the scholar.
D) Archimedes pulls a scroll from a shelf, and unrolls it. Conon takes the scroll from Archimedes, and puts it back. Archimedes continues to read the names of great mathematicians of the world. He stops when he sees his own name. He opens one scroll after another, very excited.
E) Conon leads Archimedes and the others out of the Hall of Mathematics.
F) Conon shows Archimedes a botanical garden, a miniature zoo, a theater and a large workshop filled with artisans.
G) Conon leads Archimedes and the others down a covered marble colonnade to another building, also lined in white marble.
BACK TO SCENE
A large, circular room with a dome ceiling, surrounded by smaller classrooms. Lebanese cedar lines the walls. Men are sitting or standing and talking. Conon, Archimedes, Theon, Stobaeus, and Erastesthenes enter.
CONON
This is the Great Hall.
Everyone stands when Archimedes enters. Conon makes introductions. Many names Archimedes recognizes. Each in turn welcomes Archimedes. Some hug him. CALLIMACHUS enters. The room grows quiet. He walks with measured steps, using two wooden staffs for support. Half way into the room, he sees Conon and Archimedes and walks toward them.
CONON (CONT’D)
Archimedes, I would like to introduce you to the famous poet, Callimachus of Cyrene, and now the head of the Museum. Callimachus, this is Archimedes of Syracuse, who has written...
CALLIMACHUS
Conon, stop your endless patter. I am familiar with Archimedes’s works, and I do not need you to explain them to me. I may be old and feeble, but I still have a sharp mind. Now go and check that everyone is here while I talk to Archimedes.
CONON
(grinning and starting to count)
Yes, sir.
ARCHIMEDES
(bowing)
It is an honor to meet you at last, Callimachus.
CALLIMACHUS
(waving his hand)
Nonsense, Archimedes! You honor the Museum with your presence. I am sorry that I could not be at the docks to meet you when you arrived, but, as you can see, I do not get around very well.
ARCHIMEDES
I understand.
CALLIMACHUS
As Plato recorded Sophocles as saying, ‘I thank old age for delivering me from the tyranny of my appetites.’ I am glad you have arrived safely. Please, please, continue to meet all the members. We will talk at length later. We look forward to your lesson on the floating bodies tomorrow night.
Callimachus raps one of his staffs twice. Everyone makes a slight bow toward Callimachus, and remains standing as he exits the room. One by one, the scholars file by Archimedes and greet him as they leave. Eventually, the room is empty except for Archimedes, Conon, Theon, Stobaeus and Erastesthenes.
ARCHIMEDES
What did Callimachus mean when he said my presentation?
ERASTESTHENES
My dear friend, Now that you are in the Museum, in the flesh so to speak, we want to hear about your theories and works.
ARCHIMEDES
All of them? That would take months.
ARCHIMEDES
But I cannot stay here for months-a few weeks at most.
THEON
Do not be so quick to leave. Wait until you have seen Alexandria. It is like no other place on earth. For scholars like us, it is heaven. Wait a few months and then decide.
CONON
Tonight is a banquet, and you are the guest of honor. Let me show you to your quarters so you can get ready. King Ptolemy is most anxious to meet you. I will come at sunset to show you the way.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
INT. THE GREAT HALL OF KING PTOLEMY’s PALACE - NIGHT
People sitting on pillows or reclining around low tables fill the hall. King PTOLEMY, Queen ARSINOE, King EUERGETER, BERENICE and HELENA are at one table. The dog, Peritas sits nearby on a pillow. Conon enters with Archimedes and leads him to the head table.
CONON
(whispering)
The king is dressed like an ancient Egyptian Pharaoh to please the masses and the Egyptian priests.
CONON
(bowing)
Sire, may I present the famous…
PTOLEMY
(interrupting)
Conon, I do not think you can do justice to this man. Allow me to make the introductions.
CONON
(backing away)
As you wish, sire.
PTOLEMY
He loves to here himself talk. So, you are Archimedes. I have heard so many stories about you that I thought I would recognize you anywhere, but I thought you had a beard.
ARCHIMEDES
Yes, sire. I did have a beard, but Queen Philistis suggested that I cut it off for my visit.
PTOLEMY
Well, I think it makes you look younger. I am King Ptolemy. Welcome to Alexandria. Please, join me at my table tonight.
(pointing)
This is my wife, Queen Arsinoe.
Queen Arsinoe remains seated and does not extend her hand to Archimedes
ARSINOE
(smiling, revealing rotten teeth)
Welcome, Archimedes I do hope you will enjoy your stay with us. We are very proud to have you here.
PTOLEMY
(pointing with his flail)
And here we have my son, Euergeter, co-ruler of Alexandria.
Euergeter stands, extending a hand to Archimedes
PTOLEMY (CONT’D)
This is my niece, Berenice, daughter of the late Magus, former King of Cyrene, and my half-brother. Now she is the Queen of Cyrene. Berenice has one of the best chariot teams from Cyrene. She races them herself.
Berenice remains seated but extends her hand to Archimedes. He kisses it. Her smile reveals nice teeth.
BERENICE
Please, sire. It is nothing compared to what Archimedes has achieved.
(beat)
Archimedes, if you would be so kind as to let me have my hand back.
ARCHIMEDES
(letting go of her hand)
Oh! My apologies, your Highness. I forgot myself for a moment.
BERENICE
That is quite all right. It happens to me all the time.
PTOLEMY
Here we have my other niece, Princess Helena of Cyrene, Berenice’s younger sister. Helena is a great charioteer in her own right. She will also race this week. As she gains more experience, she might even surpass Berenice.
HELENA
(shaking hands)
Your Highness embarrasses me.
PTOLEMY
Nonetheless, it is true. Archimedes, I am going to give you the most desired seat in the kingdom tonight. Please, sit here between Helena and Berenice. They will take good care of you. Just do not make Euergeter jealous.
(winking)
He has his eye on Berenice.
Ptolemy moves toward the center of the stage and waits until he has everyone’s attention.
PTLOEMY (CONT’D)
(in a loud voice)
Tonight we start the celebration of the great achievements of my father who established our dynasty. We are especially honored to have as our guest, Archimedes of Syracuse.
All the people stand and applaud. King Ptolemy signals for them to sit.
PTOLEMY (CONT’D)
Tomorrow morning we will begin the festivities. You are all invited. Now, please, you are my guests tonight. Enjoy the feast and the entertainment, and be joyous as only Greeks can be.
Musicians to begin to play and a troupe of young women begin dancing.
HELENA
So you are the great Archimedes?
ARCHIMEDES
No, your Highness, I mean, yes, your Highness. That is, I am Archimedes of Syracuse, not the ‘great’ Archimedes.
HELENA
Come, come. You are too modest. We are not as formal as this banquet makes us appear. Call me Helena.
BERENICE
You look nervous.
ARCHIMEDES
Yes, your Highness, I am. In Syracuse, women do not usually dine with men. One exception, of course, is the Queen. However, I see several women here.
HELENA
We do in this palace. Many of the Royal Family and even some of the wealthier families eat together. Do woman make you nervous?
ARCHIMEDES
Yes, but I do not see any wives eating with the scholars from the Museum.
HELENA
Well, rank does have some privileges.
BERENICE
I heard that. You speak too loudly. Pay no attention to her, Archimedes, because that would kill her. My little sister craves attention.
HELENA
Hush or I will tell Uncle Ptolemy to marry you to a warthog of a king and send you away.
BERENICE
As you wish, my dear sister, but when you are through with Archimedes, I would like to ask a few questions of my own.
HELENA
Now then, Archimedes, I understand you will be explaining your theory on floating bodies tomorrow night. I am eager to hear about it.
ARCHIMEDES
You plan to attend my presentation?
HELENA
Why, yes, of course. Berenice and I attend most of the presentations at the Museum. Do you not approve of women attending?
ARCHIMEDES
Yes, I mean no. I mean to say, that in Syracuse, women would not attend such a presentation, and I doubt would find it very interesting.
HELENA
Oh, my! Then Syracuse is not as advanced as I thought. You will find we do thing differently here in Alexandria. I think you have a lot to learn about the women of Alexandria.
ARCHIMEDES
So it would seem and about a great deal about other things too, I imagine.
BERENICE
Are you familiar with our cuisine?
ARCHIMEDES
No, not really. I recognize some of the more common dishes but not much else.
BERENICE
Very well then, tonight we will be your teachers, and you can be our pupil.
ARCHIMEDES
As you wish, your Highnesses.
HELENA
Oh, Archimedes, I told you, do not be so formal. Call us Helena and Berenice.
Servants serve the first course. They serve the King first, then the rest of the Royal Family, and then the other guests in the Great Hall. The King feeds scraps of food to Peritas. Berenice and Euergeter hold hands.
HELENA
(pointing)
Archimedes, I am sure you recognize eggs, salad, and shellfish, but are you familiar with these? These are snails.
ARCHIMEDES
No, I do not think so. I know what a snail is, but I have never eaten one.
HELENA
(tries to place a snail into Archimedes’s closed mouth)
Come now, do not make a face. You must first try everything then you can eat whatever suits you. Now try this.
Archimedes opens his mouth, and lets her drop the snail inside.
ARCHIMEDES
Hmmmm. Interesting!
HELENA
That was not as bad as you thought it was going to be, was it? Now what would you like?
ARCHIMEDES
I think I will stick to eggs and salad to begin with.
BERENICE
Archimedes, where is your sense of adventure? You come here to learn and to explore new ideas at the Museum, and here you sit with a closed mind ... and mouth. Tell you what; we will feed you things that we know you will like. You just relax.
The sisters began picking out items and feeding Archimedes When the last course is served, Helena takes Archimedes’s goblet and holds it up for a wine steward to refill but stops him when the glass is half-full. Using a special stick from a bowl, she drops a generous portion of honey into his glass, stirs, and hands the goblet back to Archimedes.
HELENA
Surely, you recognize this. You must have honey in Syracuse but try this with our excellent wine.
Helena makes two more glasses for herself and Berenice but with much less honey. Archimedes examines the glass goblet.
ARCHIMEDES
(drinking)
It is …
HELENA
(interrupting)
I know, interesting!
PTOLEMY
(standing)
I have some business to take care of. Please, enjoy your dinner.
(starts to go but stops and turns toward Archimedes)
Archimedes, I think it would be good for you to see something of our kingdom outside of the palace and Library.
ARCHIMEDES
But, sire, I would need a guide, someone who speaks the native language.
PTOLEMY
You are right.
(beat)
Helena will take you.
HELENA
Sire? Me?
PTOLEMY
Yes, of course. Who better than you?
HELENA
(bowing)
I am obedient to my god and my king.
Ptolemy exits. The dog, Peritas, follows him.
HELENA (CONT’D)
(standing)
I guess I will be your guide next week.
Helena offers her hand to Archimedes who kisses it. Helena and Queen Arsinoe exit.
EUERGETER
Archimedes, these laws of levers that you discovered, could they be used to build war machines?
ARCHIMEDES
Of course.
(beat)
Helena is very young.
EUERGETER
Old enough to marry if she desires, but right now, I do not think she wants to marry anyone. Could you please explain to me your laws of pulleys? I find this all fascinating.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
SERIES OF SHOTS: INSIDE THE HIPPODROME FOR THE CHARIOT RACES - DAY
A) Archimedes and Conon sit with members of the museum behind the Royal Family and members of the court. King Ptolemy, Helena, and Berenice are absent. Euergeter is there with Queen Arsinoe.
B) View of the track. It is wide with two straight-a ways and a semi-circle at both ends. In the middle is a low wall or a spine that divides the two straight-a ways. On top of the spine are lap counters in the shape of dolphins. Slaves work on the track.
C) The Hippodrome quickly fills with spectators.
D) At the sound of a trumpet, a roar goes up from the crowd. King Ptolemy leads a procession dressed as a pharaoh in a decorated war chariot driven by a bodyguard, followed by musicians and dancers. Behind them are chariots carrying statues of Zeus, Isis, Poseidon, and others. There is a statue of Ptolemy’s father. All the officials for the race follow the statues.
E) The crowd cheers as slaves place the statues on pedestals in the center spine.
F) The chariot teams follow next. Each chariot has four horses.
G) Close up of Berenice in the lead chariot. She is wearing a silver helmet and a tunic covered by a leather cuirass and trousers. She has wrapped the reins of the four horses around her waist. She moves and twists her hips as well as using her hands to steer the horses.
H) Close up of Helena following Berenice in a chariot. She is dressed the same as Berenice except with a plain leather helmet. Helena’s chariot is one of four in the line abreast behind Berenice.
I) The rest of the competitors, twelve in all, follow. The crowd cheers their favorite team.
J) The chariots for the first race enter their assigned stalls. Each stall has a hinged bar placed across the stall to keep the horses inside. Berenice enters the first stall reserved for the defending champion. Another trumpet sounds, and the crowd becomes quiet.
K) Close up of Ptolemy. All eyes are on him as he holds out a white cloth at arm’s length for a minute. He lets it fall.
L) Close up of stalls. A man on top of the stalls pulls a lever that opens all the stalls at the same time. The horses and chariots bolt out of the stalls into the straightaway, each in their marked lane.
M) After a short distance, the markings stop, and the chariots begin to change lanes, fighting for the inside lane occupied by Berenice.
N) The first accidents happen. One chariot is overturned, and the chariot breaks away from the horses. The driver cannot get out of his reins and the horse drag him half way around the track.
O) Another chariot loses a wheel.
P) A collision happens with one chariot losing a wheel, but the other charioteer maintains control and stays in the race. The crowd cheers with each collision or near collision.
BACK TO SCENE
ARCHIMEDES
Are you ill?
CONON
(holding his head)
Could you ask the crowd to keep the noise down? I had too much beer last night.
ARCHIMEDES
I do not think I can.
CONON
Then, please, kill me to take me out of my misery.
ARCHIMEDES
Have some more wine.
(pours a cup of wine)
I understand that it will take the sting out of your pain.
CONON
I do not think so, but I will try it.
(drinking)
SERIES OF SHOTS: INSIDE THE HIPPODROME. THE RACE CONTINUES - DAY
A) Berenice has the inside lane and takes the lead. She moves her horses as close as possible to the spine for the turn. As she enters the first turn, she shifts her weight to lean the chariot into the turn.
B) Shot of the inside of the chariot. There is no floor in the chariot. Berenice stands on the center yoke.
C) Young boys run out onto the track to remove the injured drivers and to clear the debris. The chariots nearly strike the boys.
D) Berenice keeps the lead position by blocking her challengers.
E) Helena manages to reach the inside track.
F) Helena’s chariot swings wide around the first turn and two chariots cut in ahead of her before she can move over.
G) The chariots approach the second turn. Berenice makes the turn easily. Helena slows the chariot slightly to hold the turn and cuts cut inside the chariot in front of her.
H) Ahead of her, another chariot loses a wheel and is out of the race.
I) Officials pull down one of the dolphin counters to signal one complete lap. Helena is in fifth place.
J) Helena ends up in a cluster of chariots. Two chariots trap her between them, hub-to-hub. One of the drivers tries to hit Helena with his whip, but she ducks. She twists her hips to jerk the horses into the offending driver, causing him to jerk his horses into the path of another chariot. The collision causes one chariot to overturn, and the driver of the other chariot to lose his footing, and to fall off his chariot.
K) Helena moves to the inside lane.
L) Officials pull down another dolphin counter.
M) As Helena makes the next turn, she sees a lot of debris on the track. She slows down to maneuver around it.
N) Berenice laps the competition and is now behind Helena. The two chariots enter the turn neck and neck with Berenice in the inside.
O) Berenice’s inside horse strikes the spine with his left shoulder. Her chariot jerks violently to the right into Helena’s chariot. The inside horse on Berenice’s chariot stumbles and falls, breaking the yoke of the chariot. Berenice’s chariot, boxed tightly in between the spine and Helena’s chariot, does not turn over. The pinched chariot abruptly slows down as three of the horses continue to gallop ahead, pulling Berenice out of her chariot. The yoke of her chariot digs into the track and flips end over end behind Helena. Her reins drag Berenice until the horses eventually stop.
P) The crowd stands.
Q) For several seconds, Berenice does not move. Finally, she gets up. The crowd cheers wildly.
R) Helena turns her chariot around, drives up to Berenice, and dismounts. The two meet face-to-face. Berenice embraces Helena. As Berenice climbs onto Helena’s chariot, the crowd yells their approval. Berenice re-enters the race, and leaves Helena standing on the track.
S) Officials pull down a dolphin counter.
T) The other chariots have caught up, and are charging right for Helena. Helena runs and leaps headfirst to get out of the horses’ path.
U) Officials pull down another dolphin counter.
V) Berenice passes chariot after chariot, and in the final stretch, wins the race by one chariot length.
BACK TO SCENE
ARCHIMEDES
(covering his eyes)
Are they safe? Is it over?
CONON
You can look now. The race is over. Berenice won.
ARCHIMEDES
Good! I am glad that they are safe.
CONON
And I am glad that Berenice won. I bet heavily on her team.
SERIES OF SHOTS: INSIDE THE HIPPODROME - BERENICE IS DECLARED WINNER - DAY
A) Berenice starts her victory lap and stops to pick up Helena. The crowd cheers.
B) Berenice stops her chariot in front of King Ptolemy’s throne and dismounts. When Helena stays in the chariot, Berenice turns and holds out her hand for Helena to join her. Hand in hand, they approach King Ptolemy.
C) They kneel on a cushion before King Ptolemy. He holds up a palm branch and laurel wreath and awards them to Berenice. The crowd pours out of their seats and mobs Berenice.
END OF SERIES
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
EXT. A COURT YARD OUTSIDE THE PALACE - DAY
Helena is waiting in a two-horse chariot with a Greek bodyguard. Two Nubian guards stand on either side of the chariot carrying spears but wearing only loincloths. They are barefooted. Archimedes enters led by Helena’s handmaiden.
HELENA
Come up here, Archimedes
Archimedes climbs onto the crowded chariot, next to the guard and behind Helena.
HELENA (CONT’D)
Hold on!
The way Helena is standing forces Archimedes to put one arm on either side of her to reach the front edge of the chariot. The chariot lurches forward as Helena cracks her whip, and her body sways backward, striking Archimedes. He nearly loses his footing. The two Nubian spearmen travel along either side effortlessly.
SERIES OF SHOT: HELENA GIVES ARCHIMEDES THE GRAND TOUR - DAY
A) Helena takes Archimedes through Bruchium, the Greek Quarter.
B) Helena takes Archimedes through the Jewish Quarter.
C) Helena takes Archimedes into Rhakotis, the original village around which Alexandria was built.
D) Helena takes Archimedes into the new Egyptian Quarter. The streets are crowded with two wheeled wagons, and people who move over when they recognize the royal seal on the chariot.
E) Helena drives the chariot out the west gate of the city and past olive groves where Egyptians are pressing olives for their oil.
END OF SERIES
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
EXT. ABOARD THE ROYAL BARGE - ON THE NILE RIVER - DAY
Helena and Archimedes stand at the railing as the barge travels up the Nile River. Helena points out various sights and landmarks and explains whatever she knows about them.
ARCHIMEDES
I am amazed that you know the native language, and you seem so comfortable among them. I have been admiring your necklace. What is that ornament hanging from it?
HELENA
It is called a scarab. It is like a beetle and sacred to the Egyptians.
ARCHIMEDES
Interesting! It is very beautiful.
HELENA
Thank you. Do women in Syracuse wear jewelry?
ARCHIMEDES
Not as much as the women in Alexandria. I do not think the women in Syracuse are as beautiful as those in Alexandria.
HELENA
(laughing)
Archimedes! I think that is a compliment for the Alexandrian women but not for the woman of Syracuse. You should be careful not to always speak your mind. It will get you into trouble.
(stepping back quickly)
Do you like my perfume?
ARCHIMEDES
Why, Yes. I have been admiring it all day.
HELENA
It is called Susinum. It is made from lilies, myrrh, and cinnamon with a base of balanos oil. It is very hard to make but smells wonderful when I wear it. Do you agree?
ARCHIMEDES
Yes, it smells wonderful.
HELENA
Well, you do not smell wonderful. Anyone that comes near you knows that you have not been to the bath since you arrived. Your hair smells like salt water. Your clothes smell like sweat. And your body…well, I am too refined to describe it. I will show you how we bathe here in Alexandria before we dine tonight.
ARCHIMEDES
Perhaps we should start back. It is getting late.
HELENA
We are not going to eat in Alexandria tonight.
The barge slows and docks at a pier next to a large palace. Steps lead from the water into the palace that is covered in pink marble. As the barge approaches, people began to gather on the dock.
ARCHIMEDES
What is this place?
HELENA
My home. My father built it many years ago before he was King of Cyrene. Berenice and I stay here sometimes when we visit Alexandria.
Servants enter and greet Helena. Helena and Archimedes walk up the steps and into the palace.
HELENA
(pointing)
This servant will show you to the bath. I will meet you there. We dine in one hour.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
INT. THE BATH IN HELENA’S PALACE - NIGHT.
Archimedes enters lead by a servant. The servant pours Archimedes a generous glass of wine and removes his clothes. Archimedes steps into the hot bath water. Helena enters leading four handmaidens. Helena and four handmaidens reach the bath, place their trays near the edge of the bath, remove their linen wraps, and enter the bath naked. Archimedes retreats to the farthermost corner of the bath. Led by Helena, the women pick up a small bottle from their tray and advance through the water toward Archimedes. Helena is first to reach him, and Archimedes starts to protest.
HELENA
(placing her fingers tips on Archimedes’s lips)
Do not talk. You are in Alexandria now. We do things differently here. You should honor our customs and enjoy yourself. Look but do not touch, and I will reward you later. Now just relax. You will like this. We will take good care of you. Here, chew on this.
(placing a sprig of mint in Archimedes’s mouth)
It will freshen your breath.
Helena and the handmaidens bathe Archimedes. When they are finished, Helena takes Archimedes by one hand and leads him out of the bath. The women use warm towels to dry his skin and wrap a warm towel around him. They lead him to a low table and remove his towel. The women massage his naked body. When they are finished, Helena helps Archimedes into a white tunic.
HELENA (CONT’D)
A gift from me to you. You are an important man in Alexandria, and you must look important.
SERIES OF SHOTS: HELENA SEDUCES ARCHIMEDES – DAY/NIGHT
A) Helena and Archimedes dinning. Helena sits up next to him while he reclines, and they talk. Helena picks up his head, and places it in her lap. She takes various pieces of a food and feeds Archimedes.
B) Archimedes and Helena board the royal barge just after sunset.
C) The Nile comes to life with all sorts of creatures such as crocodiles, waterfowl and other animals.
D) Helena and Archimedes sit on cushions as Archimedes points out all the different stars and constellations to Helena.
E) Villagers rush to the shore to wave at the barge. Helena throw treats to the children.
F) Alexandria comes into view with all the lights and fires reflecting off the water. Towering above the city is the Lighthouse of Pyros.
G) The barge docks in Alexandria and Helena says good night.
END OF SERIES
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
INT. A DINING ROOM IN THE MUSEUM - DAY
King Ptolemy and several members of the museum are eating breakfast as Archimedes enters. King Ptolemy approaches Archimedes
PTOLEMY
(sniffing)
I see that Helena has introduced you to her version of the royal bath.
(beat)
It is your fragrance! The eucalyptus gave you away. She tends to favor it. She likes her men to smell like eucalyptus.
ARCHIMEDES
Her men?
PTOLEMY
Yes! Did you think you were the first?
ARCHIMEDES
Your Highness, I assure you that…
PTOLEMY
(interrupting)
Come, come, Archimedes, please do not say anything, or you will sound like a fool. You are not her first, and you will not be her last. I am sure that right now your mind is on Helena and not mathematics, so we will talk of mathematics some other time. Please, enjoy your stay with us.
Ptolemy acknowledges Archimedes’s bow with a slight head nod, turns and walks away.
SERIES OF SHOTS: ARCHIMEDES AND HELENA SET OUT FOR THE GREAT PYRAMIDS FROM CAIRO - DAY
A) Archimedes and Helena are dressed in white. Camels are sitting on the ground. Helena’s Greek BODYGUARDS are there along with cohort of Nubians. Archimedes tries a couple of times to get on his camel before succeeding. Everyone chuckles. On a signal from Helena, everyone mounts their camel, and two of the Nubian riders start out to scout the route ahead. Helena’s bodyguards follow Helena and Archimedes and the rest of the cohort of Nubians ON camels loaded with tents, food and water.
B) The small caravan winds its way through the city to the west gate.
C) In the distance, Archimedes sees pyramids, not clearly at first because of the shimmering heat waves but as distinct points on the horizon.
D) As they get closer, the pyramids appear as three triangular red points floating on the horizon.
E) The Sphinx comes into view.
F) The caravan stops near the pyramids. Archimedes nearly falls in his haste to dismount. Everyone dismounts and the Nubians begin to set up camp.
G) Archimedes scampers off toward the pyramids. He darts back and forth, sometimes counting paces and sometimes holding his arms in different angles. He begins to climb one of the pyramids.
H) Helena and the Greek guards watch him in wonder while they make camp. The Nubians post lookouts, and set up a separate camp nearby.
END OF SERIES
FADE OUT
FADE IN
ENT. CAMPSITE WITH TENTS IS SET UP – DAY NEAR SUNSET
A cook is cooking. The BODYGUARDS and Helena sit around the campfire. The Nubians camp nearby. The commander of the Nubians trots over to FIRST BODYGUARD. He bows, and points off to the east.
FIRST BODYGUARD
(jumping up and shouting)
Dust storm!
HELENA
(yelling)
Archimedes!
(to one of the bodyguards)
Quickly, go get him.
SERIES OF SHOT: THE SAND STORM STRIKES – DAY
A) The bodyguard sprints, yelling to get Archimedes’s attention, but Archimedes is too absorbed in studying the pyramid to heed the calls or see the storm.
B) The other bodyguards hurry to tie down the tents.
C) The storm strikes with all its ferocity.
D) The sand stings Archimedes’s face, and gets into his mouth and eyes. He covers his face and tries to turn back. He stumbles and falls. He lies face down and tries to cover every opening he can with his clothes.
E) The bodyguard finds Archimedes. He pulls Archimedes half-upright, and drags him toward an opening in the side of the pyramid big enough for one person. The guard places Archimedes into the opening and helps him cover his face and hands. The guard covers his own face and presses up against Archimedes to protect him with his body.
F) The storm rages. Just as suddenly as it hit, it moves on. A layer of sand covers everything.
G) The bodyguard helps Archimedes out of the cavity, and together they begin to climb down the side of the pyramid.
H) They arrive in camp just after sunset.
I) Archimedes dusts off his robes.
END OF SERIES
FADE OUT
FADE IN
INT. INSIDE HELENA’S TENT - NIGHT
Helena is combing her hair. Archimedes enters covered in sand. Helena jumps up and runs to Archimedes and hugs him.
HELENA
Archimedes! I thought I had lost you.
ARCHIMEDES
I am all right, thanks to your guard.
Archimedes starts to kiss Helena, but she pulls away.
ARCHIMEDES
What is wrong?
HELENA
(laughing)
If you could see yourself. You have sand in your hair, in your eyebrows, all over your face except for a small area around your lips. Let me clean you.
Using a cloth and water, Helena cleans Archimedes. As she finishes one area, she kisses it and starts on another.
HELENA
Well, I washed the areas I could see. Now take off your robe so I can clean the rest of you. I will pour you some wine. The sand ruined dinner, but I did manage to save some fruit and salad.
ARCHIMEDES
It will do, thank you.
As Archimedes removes his robe, a scorpion falls to the carpet. Archimedes yells and leaps onto Helena’s bed. Helena is stunned for a moment.
ARCHIMEDES
(waving his arms and shouting)
Kill it! Kill it!
Helena laughs uncontrollably and falls to ground holding her sides. Two bodyguards enter the tent. They see Helena on the ground holding her sides, and breathless, unable to speak. They turn to see Archimedes standing on Helena’s bed. They draw their swords and face Archimedes.
HELENA
(yelling and pointing)
No! No! There!
One of the guards steps on the scorpion. They look at Helena and Archimedes and start to laugh. The guards exit.
ARCHIMEDES
Spiders! I hate them.
HELENA
Actually, that is much worse than a spider. It must have crawled into your clothes during the dust storm.
ARCHIMEDES
Well, it is not funny.
HELENA
(laughing)
Yes, it is.
Finally, Archimedes calms down, and he too begins to laugh. After Helena cleans the rest of Archimedes, they sit down and eat the small dinner. Archimedes begins to explain his theories on how the pyramids were built.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
INT. ARCHIMEDES’S TENT - NIGHT
Archimedes is sleeping in bed in the dark tent. Helena enters. A flash of moon light awakens Archimedes as Helena opens the tent flap.
ARCHIMEDES
Helena! What is it? What do you want?
HELENA
I am cold.
ARCHIMEDES
Do you want my blanket?
HELENA
No, Archimedes I want you.
ARCHIMEDES
Well, Helena, I do not think…
HELENA
(interrupting)
Now stop and listen to me. Whenever I get cold at the palace or on one of these trips, some of my handmaidens come to bed with me. Their bodies keep me warm. It is the only way I can sleep when I am cold. I did not bring my handmaidens this time. I want to get into bed with you so that you can keep me warm with your body.
ARCHIMEDES
But, Helena...
HELENA
Oh, quit complaining. I am not going to attack you. You do not have to do anything. I will just sleep close to you, and if it makes you feel better, we can put a blanket between us. I am freezing.
Archimedes relents, and holds open the covers for Helena. Helena drops her robe, and stands naked, silhouetted in the moon light from the tent opening. She climbs into his bed, and snuggles with her back close to his stomach
HELENA (CONT’D)
Put your arm around me.
Archimedes puts his arm around Helena.
HELENA
Today when I saw you disappear into that storm, I thought I had lost you. I was so afraid. Do not scare me like that again.
Helena turns around to face Archimedes, and wrapping her arms around his neck, begins to kiss him. Helena pulls him on top of her. They begin to make love. Suddenly, Archimedes screams, hops out of bed and hobbles around rubbing the backs of his legs.
ARCHIMEDES
Ow! Ow!
HELENA
Archimedes! What is wrong?
ARCHIMEDES
My legs! Cramps in both legs. Oh, that hurts.
HELENA
Come here, and I will massage them.
Archimedes climbs back into to bed, and Helena massages the back of his legs until the cramps go away. They resume their lovemaking. The cramps come back quickly, and they repeat the massage. They repeat this scene several times during the night.
FADE OUT
FADE IN
EXT. IN THE DESERT AT HELENA’S CAMP - DAY
A cook is cooking breakfast over a fire as the BODYGUARDS sit on the camel saddles. Nearby, the Nubia are singing and dancing. Archimedes and Helena enter and sit on camel saddles.
HELENA
What are they singing about?
FIRST BODYGUARD
I have not heard that song before. I will go and ask them what it means.
The First Bodyguard exits and returns after a few minutes.
FIRST BODYGUARD
(laughing)
It seems that they are singing about you two. It is a folk song about two young lovers who mate for the first time and all the pleasures they discover in each other. Apparently, they heard you two last night.
HELENA
(angry)
They do not know what they heard.
FIRST BODYGUARD
They have also bestowed a title on Archimedes. They now refer to him as the ‘Lion of Alexandria.’
HELENA
What does it mean, the Lion of Alexandria?
FIRST BODYGUARD
They intend to honor Archimedes by the title. It has nothing to do with the strength or courage of a lion. As the Nubian commander explained, the lion is known for sexual prowess. It seems that lions can mate frequently and for hours, many times with more than one lioness.
The other guards begin to giggle.
ARCHIMEDES
What do you mean? Did they think that my yelling was something sexual? I had leg cramps.
FIRST BODYGUARD
Apparently so. Anyway, that title is much better than the one we came up with.
HELENA
I am afraid to ask. What title did you dogs come up with?
FIRST BODYGUARD
We decided Archimedes’s title should be, The Scorpion King.
At this remark, two of the guards fall off their camel saddles laughing. Helena stands up and throws a piece of fruit at one of the laughing guards.
HELENA
(angry and pointing)
If anyone of you could bed a woman as well as Archimedes, your sons would be kings.
Helena walks over and straddles Archimedes, wrapping her arms around him and kissing him. Then she storms off to her tent. Before entering, she turns and makes an obscene gesture. The guards stop laughing and stare at Archimedes. Helena exits.
ARCHIMEDES
I hope you do not get into trouble over this.
SECOND BODYGUARD
No. She knows we are only teasing. We know all the Royal Family, and I can tell you that Helena is the best of the family. Berenice may be more beautiful, but no one else is as nice as Helena. Of all the women in Alexandria, you have chosen the best.
ARCHIMEDES
I did not choose her, she chose me, I think.
SERIES OF SHOTS: ARCHIMEDES AND HELENA HAVE A HAPPY LIFE- DAY
A) Archimedes and Helena working together. Archimedes looking at the stars with Helena writing down his observation
B) Riding in Helena’s chariot riding through the city and in the desert.
C) The wedding of Archimedes and Helena. It is a double wedding along with Euergeter and Berenice.
D) Archimedes and Helena leave Alexandria by ship.
E) Archimedes is welcomed back into King Hieron’s court.
F) Helen gives birth to a baby girl. They name her Arsinoe.
G) Arsinoe grows up.
H) Arsinoe falls in love with HIPPOKRATES and they marry.
I) King Hieron dies. Hippokrates becomes tyrant of Syracuse.
END OF SERIES
FADE OUT
FADE IN
INT. THE ROMAN SENATE IN SESSION - DAY
MARCUS MARCELLUS is seated among the senators. A debate is going on between two SENATORS. APPIUS and ZOIPPOS enter. CORNELIUS, head of the Senate, motions for the current debate to stop and for everyone to sit down. He nods toward Appius.
APPIUS
(whispering)
Stay here.
(moving toward the center)
Permission to address the Senate?
Cornelius nods with a condescending attitude.
APPIUS (CONT’D)
Senators, please hear me. I have come from Sicily with an urgent matter to report to you, and I have with me
(pointing)
Zoippos of Syracuse, son-in-law to King Hieron.
CORNELIUS
We are waiting.
APPIUS
Hostilities are about to resume on Sicily after many years of peace. Spies in Carthage tell me that Carthage has decided to invade Sicily. If they can conquer Sicily, they might be better able to support Hannibal. They are sending an army consisting of 25,000 infantry, supported by cavalry and elephants, to Sicily.
Murmur among the senators.
CORNELIUS
(holding up a hand for silence)
Senator Marcus Marcellus, you are our best military strategist, what do you have to say about this new threat?
MARCUS
(standing)
Whoever controls Sicily controls the back door to Roma. Hannibal does not have the strength for a direct assault on Roma, but he is still a force to be reckoned with. If Carthage can seize Sicily, and if a few cities on the mainland shift their support to Carthage, they might be able to bring several fresh legions to the very gates of Roma.
Murmurs among the senators.
SENATOR ONE
(standing)
Marcus, what do you recommend?
MARCUS
We can contain Hannibal’s army in the field. He has no hope of reinforcements. I could lead an army to destroy the Carthaginian army on Sicily and end that threat for the last time.
SENATOR TWO
(shouting)
How much time?
MARCUS
Six months maybe, but less than a year.
SENATOR THREE
(standing)
But Marcus, instead of battling Carthaginian armies on Sicily, would it make more sense to attack Hannibal’s supply line in Spain?
MARCUS
Maybe, but Spain is far, and Sicily is near. If Hannibal does decide to attack, I can quickly return from Sicily. However, an army in Spain could not return for months.
CORNELIUS
How soon could you be ready?
MARCUS
Two weeks. The army is ready. We can gather supplies in Sicily from our allies.
Cornelius senses a consensus and calls for a vote. The vote is unanimous to send an army to Sicily. Senators rush to congratulate Marcus.
APPIUS
Yes, but there is another matter related to this that the Senate should now consider.
CORNELIUS
What is it now? We have much to discuss in support of Marcus. Make your case quickly.
ZOIPPOS
(interjecting and stepping forward)
It is the matter of restoring the throne of Syracuse to the rightful heir.
The senators return to their seats, and quiet down.
CORNELIUS
(sitting down with a flourish)
Of course! Since you have imposed yourself upon us, go ahead and speak.
ZOIPPOS
(bowing and moving toward the center)
I am Zoippos. My wife is Heraclia, daughter of King Hieron and rightful heir to the throne of Syracuse. Hieron and his son were co-rulers until Carthaginian supporters murdered them.
(beat)
The throne should have passed to Hieron’s heir, Heraclia. But a man by the name of Hippokrates has seized the throne and rules as a tyrant. He has renounced the treaty with Roma and has allied with Carthage.
More murmurs.
CORNELIUS
You just heard us decide to send Marcellus to Sicily. What more must we do?
ZOIPPOS
I can be of great assistance. I have friends in high places in all the cities that were loyal to King Hieron. At the very least, I can use my agents as spies.
CORNELIUS
In addition, I suppose, you want us to restore the throne of Syracuse to your wife?
ZOIPPOS
(bowing)
You will find her to be a loyal ally, but that is only the least of my request.
CORNELIUS
(sighing)
Let us hear the rest.
ZOIPPOS
I want to be governor of Sicily.
APPIUS
(angry, steps toward Zoippos)
Why you little snake!
Now the Senate is in an uproar. Several senators are shouting at Zoippos. Cornelius stands to assert authority. The Senate quiets down.
CORNELIUS
(sitting)
Appius, I do believe Zoippos wants your job.
MARCUS
(standing)
Sicily is much too important to have an outsider appointed governor. For years, it was divided between a Roman Sicily, now governed by Appius, and that part of Sicily ruled by Syracuse.
ZOIPPOS
Yes, Sicily is too big for one governor. Give me the portion that Syracuse now rules. It will continue as it has for the last fifty years.
CORNELIUS
(to Marcus)
What say you?
MARCUS
It seems reasonable to me. But he must deliver Syracuse to us and most of its former client cities, or he gets nothing.
CORNELIUS
So be it. It costs us nothing, and it is within our power. As you said, you might be useful to us. Go as advisor to Marcus Marcellus.
APPIUS
There may be a problem. Hippokrates is son-in-law to Archimedes. Archimedes is his chief engineer. He has been constructing the defenses of Syracuse for many years.
Murmurs.
CORNELIUS
Ah! We have many fine engineers too. I am sure Marcus can conquer Syracuse.
Appius and Zoippos bow and exit.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
EXT. STREETS OF ROME - DAY
Appius and Zoippos walk side by side.
APPIUS
I should kill you for not telling me your true plans. You fail to grasp the reality of the situation that you yourself have created. Do you really think that the senate will appoint you, a non-Roman, governor of half of the largest province in the Republic, the very breadbasket of Roma? You are naive. It will not happen that way.
ZOIPPOS
But they just voted to …
APPIUS
(interrupting)
Never mind what they voted. This is war. It is expedient to grant you small favors. After the war, there will be a different attitude. They will want to ensure the peace. A Syracusan governor of Sicily will not work.
ZOIPPOS
Perhaps, but at least my wife will be Queen of Syracuse.
APPIUS
No, that will not happen either. She is the daughter of Hieron who renounced the treaty with us. But you might become king.
ZOIPPOS
(stops walking, and stares)
How could I be king?
APPIUS
To be King of Syracuse you must first make sure there are no surviving heirs to the throne. If you can do this, the Senate may reward you with the kingship of Syracuse.
ZOIPPOS
What do you mean?
APPIUS
Zoippos, even you cannot be that stupid. I mean kill them. Kill them all. Kill every person that has any bloodline to King Hieron.
ZOIPPOS
My wife too?
APPIUS
Finally, you figured it out. Yes, everyone! If you do not, you will end up with nothing or even crucified for your troubles. Understand?
ZOIPPOS
(beat)
It is very clear.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
EXT. INSIDE THE WALL OF SYRACUSE - DAY
Archimedes, Hippokrates and several workers are installing a new war machine using two elephants to lift a huge stone. Once workers lift the huge stone, they tie the supporting ropes to an anchor in the city wall. The elephants are disconnected and tied to a large timber structure that is to be placed beneath the stone. Helena and Arsinoe enter. They bring a lunch of wine, bread, and cheese. All four sit in the shadow of the suspended stone on a blanket the women have spread upon the ground,
ARSINOE
What a nice day. I love this weather.
HELENA
Yes, so do I. In Cyrene, on a day like today, I would race my sister to the sea, and we would look for seashells.
ARSINOE
(teasing)
Really? I cannot imagine you running.
HELENA
Well, I was very fast when I was your age and could beat all the boys.
ARSINOE
Mama, you are making that up. I do not believe you.
HELENA
I bet I could beat you even now.
ARSINOE
Mama, stop. You are too old and fat to beat me.
HELENA
Why you little wrench!
Helena reaches for Arsinoe, but she dodges her mother’s reach, and races off. Helena starts after her. The men just continue eating and laughing. After a few minutes, Helena returns all out of breath.
HELENA (CONT’D)
Arsinoe may be right - I am too old to catch her.
HIPPOKRATES
(standing)
Well, I can catch her.
Hippokrates races after Arsinoe. Helena sits down, knocking over a basket of apples that roll down the slope.
ARCHIMEDES
(standing up and going for the apples)
I will get them. You sit and eat.
One of the ropes holding the stone races through a pulley attached to a crane. The stone begins to swing as all the weight shifts to the other pulley that finally tears loose from the crane. The stone crashes down and lands on one end near Helena. For a moment, it stands on end, teetering.
HIPPOKRATES
(shouting)
Run, Helena!
Helena is frozen to the spot, staring at the teetering stone. The stone stops teetering, and fall toward her, crushing her to the ground.
ARCHIMEDES
(running)
Helena!
Hippokrates runs toward the elephants. Archimedes finds a rock to use as fulcrum, grabs a beam and tries to leverage up the stone. Several men rush to help, but the stone is too heavy, and the beam breaks. Hippokrates and two elephant handlers quickly connect a fresh rope around the stone and to the elephants. Within seconds, they lift the stone. When the stone is removed, it is obvious that Helena is dying. Archimedes touches her, but she screams in pain. He backs off in despair. Arsinoe kneels down by her mother.
ARSINOE
Mother, can you hear me?
HELENA
(closes eyes)
Hmmmmm.
ARSINOE
We cannot help you. You have too many broken bones.
HELENA
(whispering with much effort)
Ohhhh, I know.
ARSINOE
You are dying.
HELENA
Ohhh, I know. I am so sorry.
ARCHIMEDES
(kneeling)
I am sorry. I should never have taken you away from Alexandria.
HELENA
No. I am not sorry for that.
(spitting blood)
My time with you were the best years of my life. I will always love you.
ARCHIMEDES
Do you want me to return your body to Alexandria?
HELENA
(opens her eyes and attempts a smile)
No! I belong here with you.
(beat)
This is my home now. Bury me near the sea. I so love the sea.
(coughing up blood)
Arsinoe?
ARSINOE
I am here, mother.
HELENA
I love you. Take care of your father. He is getting old now. He forgets.
ARSINOE
Of course, mother. I will.
HELENA
(coughing up more blood)
I hurt. Make the pain stop, Archimedes. I want to go now. I love you.
Hippokrates takes out his dagger and offers it hilt first to Archimedes.
ARCHIMEDES
No! No! I cannot do it.
ARSINOE
You will have to do it. Please! Quickly!
A mason steps forward, and offers Hippokrates his mallet. Hippokrates Takes the mallet, kneels down and places the dagger over Helena’s heart.
HIPPOKRARTES
(to Arsinoe)
Cover her eyes and say goodbye.
ARSINOE
(shielding Helena’s eyes)
Goodbye, mother. I love you.
With one blow of the mallet, Hippokrates drives the dagger to the hilt through Helena’s heart. Archimedes collapses in sobs as Arsinoe holds him. A worker shows Hippokrates that the rope had been cut. Arsinoe and Hippokrates help Archimedes to his feet and make their way through the crowd that has gathered.
MONTAGE
-- EXT. IN THE CITY – DAY -- Peasants follow the procession to Archimedes’s palace. Soon, hundreds of peasants are flowing toward the house.
-- EXT. OUTSIDE ARCHIMEDES’S PALACE – NIGHT -- A large crowd gathers to keep a vigil.
-- INT. ARCHIMEDES’S PALACE – DAY -- The Egyptian servants prepare Helena’s body for burial. They adorn her body with flowers.
-- INT. ARCHIMEDES’S PALACE – DAY -- Helena’s body is placed on public view for two days. Most of the city’s citizens file by, dressed in black, to pay their last respects. Many bring offerings of fruit and oil.
-- EXT. OUTSIDE ARCHIMEDES’S PALACE – NIGHT -- Before dawn of the third day, the servants carry the body to Helena’s chariot.
-- EXT. IN THE CITY – DAY – At sunrise, Archimedes rides in Helena’s chariot beside her body to his family tomb. King Hieron and the other male members of the court follow in their chariots while Arsinoe and the female members follow on foot. The women sing songs and dance as the procession moves along. Behind the chariot are hundreds of peasants following on foot.
-- EXT. CEMETERY – DAY -- Helena’s body is placed in the tomb. The servants kill Helena’s horses. The chariot and horses are placed in the tomb and the tomb sealed.
END OF MONTAGE
FADE OUT
FADE IN
EXT. ON BOARD MARCUS’S SHIP AT SEA - DAY
Marcus, Appius, Zoippos, BRUTUS FABIUS and all the legion commanders are standing on deck facing Appius. There is a map tacked to the mast.
APPIUS
(pointing)
Sir, we have taken most of the eastern cities. Carthage still controls many of the western cities of Sicily. The independent cities have declared their support for Roma. Carthage has not put up much of a fight and cannot support Syracuse.
Marcus motions everyone to gather around a sand table in the bow. On the table is a crude model of Syracuse. At a nod from Marcus, Zoippos begins to use his sword to point out the various features on the sand table.
ZOIPPOS
A wall encircles the whole city and is well defended. Along the beach, the walls extend near the water. Archimedes has placed various types of machines all along the wall. They have enough food and water stockpiles to last several months to a year. I recommend a siege and not a direct assault.
APPIUS
A siege will take too long and tie up too many troops.
MARCUS
What about the leadership?
ZOIPPOS
The dictator is Hippokrates. His chief engineer is Archimedes.
APPIUS
How is the morale?
ZOIPPOS
The morale and determination of the army the arm are good. However, the citizens tire of war.
LEGION COMMANDER
Can we count on any help from your supporters?
ZOIPPOS
Hippokrates has arrested many of my men, but we can still make limited attacks as needed.
MARCUS
Thank you, Zoippos. You are a loyal friend of Roma and we will amply reward you in time. You are dismissed.
ZOIPPOS
It would be better if I stay. If I know your plans, I can better support them.
MARCUS
Seize power in Syracuse, and I will welcome you to the war council.
ZOIPPOS
As you wish.
Zoippos exits in a small boat.
MARCUS
(pointing to sand table)
Our main attack will be from the landside of Syracuse. Appius, in three days you will march with four legions to attack Syracuse. I do not want the Syracusans to know you are in position until they are committed against my attack I will sail with the fleet to lead the diversionary attack from the sea and attempt to draw many of the defenders to the seaside of the fort. On my signal, you will start the main attack.
APPIUS
If the main effort is from the land, you should be there, not at sea.
MARCUS
No, I am sure there are spies among our ranks. If they see me with the seaward attack, they will conclude that it is our main effort. Besides, I know you Appius. You are as capable as any commander to plan this attack. I think the seaward attack may be the most difficult part of the plan. I should be there.
APPIUS
If the seaward walls go almost to the water, it will be difficult to get a footing on the land in order to breech the walls. How do you propose to do that?
MARCUS
The sea attack is a diversion, not the main attack. However, I have the engineers working on building three huge Sambuca, each aboard six ships lashed together. We also have several catapults. Now go and make ready.
(Author’s note: Sambucas are covered stairways used to protect soldiers as they climb up inside and then over a ramp to reach the walls.)
ALL
As you have commanded.
All except Marcus exit.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
EXT. ON BOARD MARCUS’S SHIP AT SEA - NIGHT
Marcus is standing with Brutus, his deputy, at the rail looking at a dark silhouette of the walls of Syracuse. The city is black; there are no fires or lights of any kind. An aide stands nearby. A standard bear and a bugler lay on blankets nearby.
MARCUS
This is a good sign. We may still have the element of surprise.
BRUTUS
Sir, we should anchor here for the night. We should be safe. We can lash the ships together in groups of four for security and post sentinels in every group.
MARCUS
Fine! And tomorrow?
BRUTUS
At sunrise, we can consult the priests and read the omens. If the weather holds and the omens are good, we can attack with the tide about mid-morning. The sun will be toward our backs and in the defenders’ eyes.
MARCUS
Do you believe in the gods, Brutus?
BRUTUS
That is not the point, is it? Many of our soldiers do believe in the gods and omens. So does the Senate. Tomorrow at sunrise, we will bring the chickens on deck and feed them. If he chickens eat, it is a good omen.
MARCUS
Brutus, I plan to attack tomorrow no matter what the chickens do.
BRUTUS
I know that, sir. That is why I ordered the cooks not to feed the chicken today.
Marcus and Brutus chuckle. A light appears from behind the wall.
MARCUS
(sees the light)
Something is going on. They know we are here!
BRUTUS
It does not matter. We are out of range.
MARCUS
(pointing)
Look!
From behind the fortress wall comes a glow of fire, small at first but growing with each passing second. Suddenly, there is the sound of “thump, thump, thump” in rapid sequence. A band of light rises, clears the wall, and turns into a band of fire. As it comes closer, it separates into individual balls of fire heading toward the Roman fleet.
MARCUS
Curse the Gods; they are going to hit us!
BRUTUS
No, sir! We are out of range.
MARCUS
What in Hades are they throwing at us? Fire bolts?
SERIES OF SHOTS - THE ROMAN FLEET IS ATTACKED – NIGHT
A) Fire balls fall among the fleet. Some pass harmlessly overhead, but some explode among the sails and riggings of the ships. Many fall into the water between and around the fleet.
B) Fire balls hit Marcus’ flagship. The crew scrambles around putting out fires with sand from buckets placed around the deck. Marcus yells at the bugler who stands and blows his bugle. Marcus yells at the ship’s centurion to turn the ship around and head out to sea.
C) Bugles on ships in each legion begin to echo the command to withdraw. The ships come alive with activity and shouting. Some ships cut loose their burning sails to keep their ships from catching fire.
D) Men scramble to get into place at their assigned oars. Oars pop out of the sides of the ships and enter the water.
E) On Marcus’s flagship, under the direction of the ship’s centurion, one side of the ship’s oarsmen row forward while the other side rows backward, spinning the ship in place. The ship, now pointed seaward, slowly begins to make headway toward the open sea.
F) The other ships follow Marcus’s example. The sound of catapults launching stones is heard again.
G) A huge stone strikes a ship. The stone is as long as the ship is wide. It snaps the ship in two. Only a few men on deck survive.
H) Another large stone hits the water behind Marcus’s ship. The stone creates a giant wave that rocks the ship and sends a couple of men overboard. The wave splashes cross the deck and knocks Marcus and Brutus to the deck.
I) Large stones continued to fall for a few minutes more.
J) Marcus turns to see one of the Sambuca war machines struck two or three times. Stones tear away part of the Sambuca from the top to half way down. The part falls into the sea. Men jump from the sinking ships onto other ships.
K) A few survivors floating in the water cry out for help. Soon, the cries are too faint to hear. Then they fall silent.
M) As the fleet begins to make headway out to sea, the shower of stones subsides, and no more ships are lost.
BACK TO SCENE
Marcus stands in the stern of the ship. The ship’s centurion and an AIDE are with him.
MARCUS
(to the ship’s centurion)
I think we are out of range, and no longer in danger. Anchor here for the night.
(to his aide)
Find out what damages we suffered, and report to me.
Centurion and aide exit. Brutus enters carrying one of the extinguished fireballs.
BRUTUS
Sir, here is a fireball we recovered. It is a gourd. It has been hollowed out and filled with some type of oil. I think it was intended to float in the water as a marker.
MARCUS
You idiot! Not markers! They provided the light for Archimedes to see us. Have you ever seen a catapult throw a stone that large?
BRUTUS
No, sir. The largest stone we can throw is around five talents.
MARCUS
And at what range and with what accuracy?
BRUTUS
About half the distance that we were engaged tonight. We are lucky if we hit anything moving. Catapults are best when used against fixed fortresses with troops massed inside.
MARCUS
Tell that to Archimedes who found our range quickly and fired accurately. It was not luck.
The aide enters.
AIDE
(saluting)
Sir we lost three ships with their crews. Several other ships were damaged and had a few crews killed or wounded, but I do not know how many. One of the Sambuca machines was badly damaged. The damaged ships managed to rejoin the fleet and are making repairs.
MARCUS
That is all for tonight. In the morning, get a full accounting.
The aide salutes and exits.
MARCUS
Three ships lost with their crews, and we did not even get a chance to attack, yet we have been forced to retreat. It is a bad start for the campaign.
FADE OUT
FADE IN
EXT. ON BOARD MARCUS’S SHIP AT SEA - DAY
Marcus, Brutus, and several Roman officers, the ship’s crew and the HEAD PRIEST are standing on desk with crates of chickens. The head priest steps forward and scatters grain for the chickens. The priests release the chickens on deck, but refuse to eat.
HEAD PRIEST
This is a terrible omen. The gods are not pleased. The battle will not go well today. We should not attack today and should make a sacrifice to the gods.
A murmur begins to flow through the crew and onto the other ships.
MARCUS
(shouting)
Throw those chickens overboard!
Officers and crew catch the chickens and throw them overboard.
MARCUS
See that! The chickens will not eat, but they do drink. It is a good sign. We will be victorious today.
The head priest starts to protest.
BRUTUS
Priest, can you swim?
HEAD PRIEST
(beat)
No, I cannot.
BRUTUS
Then consider your next words carefully, or you will drink with the chickens.
HEAD PRIEST
(beat)
It is as Marcus has said. It is a good omen.
FADE OUT
FADE IN
SERIES OF SHOTS - THE ATTACK ON SYRACUSE AT SEA — DAY
A) A view of Marcus’ fleet: an armada of sixty galleys, each galley with five rows of oars. The fleet is divided into three waves of roughly twenty galleys each.
B) Close up of first wave of marines.
C) Close up of second wave of archers and slingers.
D) Close up of third legion of siege machines and catapults including two huge Sambucas.
E) Close up of Marcus’s ship as he orders the bugler to sound the call to attack. Buglers on the other ships echo the signal. Marcus orders a single fire arrow fired high into the air.
F) Observers on land see the arrow and ride off.
G) A view of Appius’s legions behind ridges and out of sight of Syracuse but within an easy march.
H) Overview of all three waves of ships moving forward. As they approach Syracuse, the first wave breaks off for the harbor by going between the main walls of Syracuse and a fort on an island. The second wave heads straight for the small fort.
I) Close up of the lead ship in the first wave striking something in the water. It gives a little initially but then stops the ship dead in the water. The sudden stop throws all the oarsmen forward on top of the rowers in front of them. Crewmembers on deck are all knocked down or thrown overboard across the bow. The weight of their armor sends them to the bottom of the sea.
J) The ship’s commander rushes to the bow, peers over and sees a chain just under the water surface.
K) A minute later, the second ship strikes the chain.
L) A third ship strikes the chain and then a fourth. The trailing ships are alerted and are able to slow down enough that when they hit the chain they were not going very fast. At least two thirds of the leading legion is now strung out in a line along the chain.
M) Ships that are hung up on the chain shift the weight toward the stern and row backward to get off the chain. Then the crews all hear the telltale sound of catapults. “Thump, thump, thump”. The stones strike the ships along the chain with deadly effect. Two ships on either side of the lead ship take direct hits, break apart, and sink. Three others are slightly damaged. The ships begin to turn around.
N) The crews hear the sounds of a second volley being launched. Oarsmen begin to panic and scream with some marines throwing off their armor so they will not drown. Those that can swim drop their oars, and dive overboard. Most just watch helplessly to see if a stone is heading their way.
O) The second volley strikes two ships directly, and damages a third. Bodies begin floating in the water.
P) Some ships from the second row collide with ships trying to turn around or row backwards.
Q) The ship centurions grab whatever they can and begin beating the oarsmen to row faster at the same time swearing to kill anyone who does not row.
R) The defenders launch a third volley. The crews hear the sounds and turn to watch as the tiny specks grow bigger to become huge stones.
S) This volley strikes one ship directly while tearing off the masts of two others. The damaged ships begin to take on water.
T) The crews hear the sounds of another volley. This is too much for the oarsman. Many more jump overboard. All eyes turn toward the shore to try to spot the huge stones in the air. One, two, three seconds pass but nothing happens. Everyone stops to watch and to listen. Still nothing happens.
BACK TO SCENE
CENTURION ONE
They mock us by throwing nothing at us. They know that by now the mere sound will panic our men.
SERIES OF SHOTS - THE RETREAT FROM BATTLE AT SEA - DAY
A) One by one each ship gets their oarsmen back into position, and begins to make headway, moving out of range.
B) The first wave gets under sail again to attack the southeast corner of the city wall. The attacking fleet uses a staggered line formation consisting of two rows of ships with the second row filling the gaps behind the first row.
C) Archimedes and Hippokrates watch the Roman fleet from the top of a tower. A huge mirror mounted on wheels is nearby. On all sides of the large mirror are smaller mirrors on hinges. Turning a small crank, Archimedes adjusts the mirrors and sends out a beam of light toward a Roman ship.
D) On board the Roman ship, the soldiers look up at the sail and see a circle of light on the sail. The sail begins to smolder. Finally, it bursts into flame. The soldiers scramble to fight the fire. The soldiers are able to put out the fire but the sails are lost.
E) A second ship catches on fire. The soldiers are able to put out the fire again but lose the sails. On a third ship, the fire gets out of hand, and the ship burns to the water line
F) Archimedes and Hippokrates return inside the tower.
G) Brightly painted gourds indicating different ranges float in the water. They are anchored to the bottom by a long line. The lead ship reaches the first gourd.
H) Archimedes turns over an hourglass and notes how long it takes to reach the second gourd. Archimedes tells an aide near the rear window of the tower to raise a small flag that is the same color as the gourd being approached.
I) The catapult crew on a large catapult gets ready. All eyes are on the aide in the tower. On Archimedes’s signal, the aide rapidly brings the flag down, signaling the catapult crew to trip the trigger.
K) The large stone flies over the wall and strikes the water just in front of a ship, sending a wave that nearly swamps the ship.
L) The catapult crew cheers loudly.
M) Two other catapult crews get ready. At Archimedes’s command, the aide drops one color and a few seconds later, the other.
M) The first stone rips the mast off a ship. The second stone crashes through the deck of a ship and through the hull, immediately sinking the ship.
N) The two catapult crews break into wild cheers and jeer the first crew with their near miss.
O) As the legions come into range of Archimedes’s machines, great stones begin to fall amongst the ships but with less accuracy this time. Some ships are struck and the masts torn off. Other stones fall a little short but push up great waves that rock the ships and cause some minor collisions. Two ships take direct hits and sink. With each sound of the catapults, crews panic and jump overboard.
P) As the ships get closer to the wall, the Syracusans employ smaller catapults. While many ships are hit and damaged, none sinks.
Q) As the second legion comes into range of the walls, the Romans launch arrows and missiles at the defenders.
R) On board his ship, Marcus watches as a large stone strikes one Sambuca midsection. The Sambuca falls into the sea pulling the center two boats with it.
S) The second Sambuca is not struck but two of the boats supporting it are. The crews quickly cut the lashing to save the boats.
T) As the lead boats near the shore, giant pikes pierce their hulls, and they start to sink. The ships are dead in the water and easy targets for the catapults. As stones rain down upon the ships, water gushes in through the holes made by the spikes. The crews immediately abandon ship. Those who have not taken the time to remove their armor sink to the bottom. The ship centurions in the second line drive their ships up to the rear of the damaged ships to take on as many survivors.
U) The second line of ships stays in the path of the damaged ships as much as possible and head for the shoreline. Near the beach, the ships sail head long into large spikes embedded along the shore just below the water line. Though impaled, their momentum carries them near the shore, and the soldiers begin to disembark. Slower ships that fell behind run their bows into the sterns of the impaled ship. Using the front ship as a bridge, they begin to unload their soldiers. A few of the soldiers stop to kiss the ground.
V) As the first echelon reaches the shoreline, the terrain causes the Roman formations to bunch up, creating targets.
W) Inside Syracuse, workers use elephants to lift huge stones onto catapults and machines with a series of compound pulleys and levers.
X) On the shore, a deadly rain of arrows comes from small slits in the wall striking nearly every Roman soldier who had made it to the shore.
Y) The soldiers begin to fall back toward their ships. As the soldiers start to climb back onboard the few ships that are not damaged, large beams swing out from behind the wall. Suspended from each beam is a large claw, like a giant hand. Once a claw is positioned over a ship, it suddenly drops and crashes down with great force. Upon contact with a ship, the claw snaps shut, seizing the ship. Then the claw is drawn up, lifting the ship up on end. Soldiers and crews fall out of the ships into the water. After a few minutes the claw is released, and the ship lands in the water stern first. Very few survive the fall.
Z) Every ship still afloat is trying to escape the deadly conflict. As the ships pull away from the shore, they come under attack from the smaller catapults and then the bigger ones.
AA) Marcus calls off the attack and orders a withdrawal out to sea and out of range of Archimedes’s deadly machines.
BB) Appius now begins his assault of Syracuse from the landside. The Romans form in a broad front using the standard checkered formation. The Syracusans have marked the various ranges with painted rocks. Huge stones begin to fall on the Roman formations.
CC) The Syracusans target the Sambucas. One by one, the Sambucas are destroyed before they ever get near the walls.
DD) Some Roman catapults are destroyed when they stop to set up.
EE) As the Roman legions advance toward Syracuse in an orderly fashion, they encountered thickets of thorn bushes and piles of rocks. These cause them to bunch up and slow down as they make their way around these obstacles. Whenever the soldiers bunch up, large stones thrown from behind the walls of the city immediately hit them.
FF) Arrows attack the soldiers who escape the rocks once they get within range.
GG) Huge cranes with giant claws suspended from them swing out from the walls over the heads of the Romans. The giant claws fall upon the Romans and seize whoever is not able to get out of the way. The cranes then lift the helpless victim into the air and drop them from a fatal height.
HH) The soldiers abandon all their siege equipment in a desperate attempt to get back out of range of the catapults and machines.
BACK TO SCENE
EXT. ON BOARD MARCUS’S SHIP AT SEA - DAY
Marcus holds a council of war aboard his galley. There are some new faces. Several of the old commanders have wounds. In the background, the head priest is sacrificing a bull. Zoippos and Appius are there.
MARCUS
Our plan was fundamentally sound. It would have worked against any other city in Sicily except Syracuse and Archimedes’s machines. Does anyone here have a plan that might have chance of success?
Silence answers his question.
MARCUS
(shouting)
I am surrounded with idiots! The machines of one man-Archimedes stop the entire might of Roma. His machines toss our ships and soldiers about like toys. Can anyone here tell me if we actually inflicted any casualties on the Syracusans?
Again, his question is met with silence.
MARCUS
Very well! It is apparent that our siege machines cannot get close enough to inflict any damage to the city walls. An all-out attack would result in many more losses. I see no other option but to stop the attacks for the time being and start a blockade. We will defeat the other rebel cities one by one until Syracuse remains mains alone. By then the city may be compelled to capitulate.
ZOIPPOS
It is also possible that my agents inside the city will gain the upper hand and open the city gates.
Marcus is so angry that grabs a wine cup from the table and throws it at Zoippos, hitting him in the chest.
MARCUS
(shouting)
You did not tell us about the chain!
ZOIPPOS
(wiping wine off his face and chest)
Had you included me in your war plans, I would have. If you remember, I recommended a blockade in the first place.
MARCUS
(shouting)
Your brains are in your ass! You know nothing of tactics.
Marcus moves toward Zoippos, but Brutus is already behind Zoippos and seizes him with his dagger at his throat.
APPIUS
Do not kill him yet, commander. We might need him.
Marcus thinks about Appius’s warning. He places his face in Zoippos’s face.
MARCUS
If you ever withhold information from me again, I will have you crucified. Do you understand me?
Brutus releases Zoippos.
ZOIPPOS
(trembling)
Yes, sir.
MARCUS
(to Appius)
However, something must be done about the soldiers who panicked and ran in the face of Archimedes’s machines.
APPIUS
It is impossible to determine who had run and who had not. Many who stayed and fought bravely, died.
MARCUS
You are all so quick to remind me of our Roman customs. I want to decimate the ranks.
APPIUS
Then the Syracusans will have caused the death of one tenth of our army without throwing another stone.
Several commanders protest.
MARCUS
The whole of the army ran, but only a few must die for it. The honor of the rest is still intact. Brutus, you know the Senate’s state of mind. What do you say?
BRUTUS
If you do not do this, the Senate will banish the army to Sicily, never to return home.
MARCUS
(to Appius)
Which is better? You tell me!
APPIUS
(hanging his head)
You are right of course. It is better to sacrifice a few men to save the honor of the others.
SERIES OF SHOTS - THE DECIMATION OF THE ROMAN RANKS - DAY
A) The entire Roman army in formation
B) The centurion (leader of 100) of each unit walks through the ranks and selects every tenth soldier. When the centurion taps each selected soldier on the shoulder, the soldier steps forward three steps and takes off their armor. Each Decurion (leader of eight soldiers) steps behind each selected soldier.
C) On a signal from Marcus, each Decurion thrusts his sword through the man’s back and into his heart.
D) One Decurion refuses to kill his soldier. The centurion orders another Decurion to kill all eight soldiers in that unit.
E) The Romans gather the bodies into a large pile and burn them.
F) The fleet sets up a blockade of the harbor.
G) The army sets up a siege of the land portion of Syracuse by digging trenches and erecting guard towers.
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
INT. MARCUS’ TENT - NIGHT
Marcus sits alone at a desk working with maps. CENTURION TWO enters and salutes.
CENTURION TWO
Excuse me, sir.
MARCUS
(continues to work)
Yes, what is it?
CENTURION TWO
Sir, two days ago, we captured a small ship trying to leave the Syracuse harbor. There were two people onboard that we thought you might want to question.
MARCUS
(stops working and looks up)
Why?
CENTURION TWO
The skipper of the ship is a Lacedaemonian, by the name of Damippus. The other is a woman who says she is his daughter.
MARCUS
He seems innocent enough. What are you not telling me?
CENTURION TWO
Well, sir, I used to patrol along these shores, and we stopped this person more than once. Each time he had a different story; he was a Phoenician, or a Carthaginian, or a Syracusan. But he always carried letters from King Hieron or King Ptolemy of Alexandria and letters to and from Archimedes.
MARCUS
Where are they now?
CENTURION TWO
Outside, sir. I brought them in case you wanted to question them.
MARCUS
You did right. Bring them in.
Centurion Two exits and enters in a few minutes with Barnacle and Arsinoe. Their hands are bound behind them.
MARCUS
(studies Barnacle and Arsinoe for a minute)
We caught you trying to leave the Syracuse harbor. Where were you going?
BARNACLE
Yes, sir, my daughter and I were just trying to get back to our home in Alexandria.
MARCUS
(slapping Barnacle)
Do not play games with me. You are not in Alexandria now, and I will crucify you for spy you are.
ARSINOE
(shouting)
No! He is telling the truth. We were going to Alexandria.
MARCUS
I believe you were headed to Alexandria, but you were not returning home. You probably carry a message to the King.
Marcus glances at the centurion who shakes his head no.
MARCUS (CONT’D)
Or … you were trying to escape. Who are you?
ARSINOE
I am Arsinoe, niece of King Ptolemy, and he will be angry to hear that you have stopped me.
MARCUS
You are both lairs!
(to the centurion)
Go get Zoippos.
Centurion Two exits. Marcus directs the guard to tie the prisoners to separate supporting poles. Zoippos and Centurion Two enter.
ZOIPPOS
You sent for me?
MARCUS
(pointing and pouring two cups of wine)
Yes. Can you identify these prisoners?
ZOIPPOS
(looking at the prisoners)
Yes, of course. You have Damippus, also called Barnacle, shipping merchant and close friend of Archimedes. This one is Arsinoe, daughter of Archimedes and the wife of Hippokrates, tyrant of Syracuse.
MARCUS
(hands Zoippos a cup of vine)
Have some wine, and stick around. You might be useful yet. Now then, what do we have here? We have before us an old sailor who is a personal friend of Archimedes and a young, beautiful woman who claims to be the niece of King Ptolemy but who is really the daughter of Archimedes and the wife of Hippokrates, tyrant of Syracuse and enemy of Roma. I am guessing that your husband has asked Barnacle to smuggle you out of Syracuse. Yes! That is it.
Marcus sips his wine, and smiles toward Zoippos who nods in agreement. Arsinoe and Barnacle do not answer.
MARCUS
Are you the only child?
Arsinoe does not answer. Marcus looks at Zoippos who nods yes.
MARCUS (CONT’D)
I see. Archimedes wanted to spare his only daughter, so he asked his closest friend to smuggle her to Alexandria, or was it Hippokrates who arranged for your escape? No matter, you are my prisoners now. I imagine that your father and husband will pay a handsome ransom to get you back. Zoippos, I want you to get a message to Hippokrates. Tell him that I have his wife and the Laceaemonian spy, Barnacle. If they would like to negotiate for their return, I am a reasonable man.
ZOIPPOS
Yes, sir.
MARCUS
Tell them that if they will guarantee my safety, I will conduct the negotiations myself. I will leave the meeting place up to them as an act of trust. Now hurry.
Zoippos drains his wine cup and departs.
FADE OUT
FADE IN
EXT. INSIDE THE WALL OF SYRACUSE - NIGHT
Marcus, Brutus and Zoippos enter into the city of Syracuse with a small party, wearing capes over their armor and weapons. A cohort of soldiers who provide escort meets them inside the gate. Zoippos leads the way to the palace. Marcus walks next to Zoippos and Brutus is behind them.
ZOIPPOS
(to Marcus)
Why are you here? Hippokrates could capture or kill you. I could conduct the negotiations.
MARCUS
You forget that Arsinoe is my prisoner. Nothing will happen to me. Besides, I need to see the defenses for myself. I also do not trust you.
ZOIPPOS
Then it is foolhardy to bring Brutus, the second in command. What will happen if you both are captured?
MARCUS
Appius is quite capable of taking command if anything happens to us.
They walk the rest of the way in silence until they reach the palace. Hippokrates meets them outside by a side door to the palace and dismisses the cohort.
FADE OUT
FADE IN
INT. HIERON’S PALACE - A SMALL ROOM. - NIGHT
There is a table with several chairs in the center of the room. Oil lamps dimly light the room. Archimedes is already in the room with two Syracusan soldiers. Hippokrates enters with the group.
HIPPOKRATES
This room will give us more privacy. I am Hippokrates, dictator of Syracuse, and this is Archimedes, my father-in-law and chief engineer. These others are my bodyguards.
Archimedes tells one of the soldiers to bring a lamp closer to the group. As the light illuminates everyone’s faces, Archimedes recognizes Zoippos. He takes his staff into both hands and raises it to strike Zoippos. Hippokrates grabs the staff to stop Archimedes. He grabs Archimedes in a bear hug.
HIPPOKRATES
(whispering)
Not now, Master. We will get Zoippos later. Right now, we have to try to save Arsinoe.
ARCHIMEDES
(sighing)
You are right. I am sorry.
Marcus salutes Hippokrates as the others follow his example except for Zoippos. Marcus glares at Zoippos who takes the hint and salutes. As Hippokrates acknowledges the salute, Marcus turns to Archimedes and uses Brutus as translator.
MARCUS
Archimedes, it is good to meet you.
Marcus extends a hand, but Archimedes refuses to shake hands.
MARCUS (CONT’D)
Without you, Syracuse could not withstand my attacks for more than a month. But you have delayed my campaign for more than a year. As a soldier, I admire your skills and your machines. Congratulations.
ARCHIMEDES
(waving his hand)
They are nothing. They have no scientific value. They are merely toys, nothing else.
MARCUS
I am Marcus Claudius Marcellus, commander of the Roman army in Sicily. On my left is Brutus, my second in command. Apparently, you already know Zoippos.
HIPPOKRATES
If you mean the traitor, yes, we know him. Please, be seated and have some wine.
As the men sit, Brutus remains standing directly behind Zoippos. One of the soldiers passes out wine bowls while a second soldier pours wine from a jug. Everyone takes a wine bowl except Archimedes and Brutus, but no one drinks. They watch Hippokrates to see if he will drink the wine.
HIPPOKRATES
(noticing the stares)
Yes, of course.
(drinking wine)
See! No poison.
MARCUS
One must be careful these days.
(sipping wine)
HIPPOKRATES
If I wanted to kill you, I would not have to resort to poison as some traitors do.
(nodding toward Zoippos)
I understand that you have taken my wife and good friend as prisoners.
MARCUS
Not as prisoners but as my guests. I mean them no harm, and I will let them go.
ARCHIMEDES
Just like that? No deals or trades?
MARCUS
Well, I did not say that. The opportunity exists to end this war between us. Our mutual enemy is really Carthage, and they are losing. You should consider all the options.
HIPPOKRATES
Return Arsinoe and Barnacle first.
MARCUS
No! If I do, you will not negotiate. That would leave me with nothing to bargain with.
ARCHIMEDES
What is it you want?
MARCUS
I want you to stop this war and sign a treaty with Roma. If you do, I will lift the blockade and not occupy your city. If you refuse, I will conquer this city. You cannot win. In time, I will defeat you. You are isolated from the rest of Sicily and Carthage cannot help you.
ARCHIMEDES
If you are going to win eventually, then why not ask for terms of surrender instead of a treaty?
HIPPOKRATES
Archimedes is right. Thanks to him, you cannot defeat us. You have suffered the most casualties. We have enough food to last for ten years.
BRUTUS
Then we will conquer Syracuse in the eleventh year.
MARCUS
(raises a hand to silence Brutus)
It is Roman custom that once our battering ram touches your gate, we show no mercy. But it does not have to end this way. Syracuse was a good ally for many years. It could be again. However, thanks to Archimedes and his machines, you could hold out for another year or more and tie down many soldiers that I can use to fight Hannibal. Be certain of this, we will win in the end. Carthage cannot help you.
ARCHIMEDES
What of my daughter? Is she all right?
MARCUS
I will not let any harm come to her. If you desire a treaty, I will let her go immediately. If not, I will let Barnacle take her to Alexandria, out of harm’s way. I do not want her to be a factor in making your decision. I just wanted to use her to start the negotiations.
(to Hippokrates)
I am also prepared to offer you the kingship of Syracuse.
Brutus moves closer behind Zoippos and removes his dagger under his cloak. Zoippos starts to speak, but he feels the point of Brutus’ dagger pressed into his back. He stiffens as he feels Brutus’s hot breath on his ear.
BRUTUS
(whispering)
One word and you are a dead man. Let Marcus do all the talking.
Once he is sure that Zoippos heard and understood, Brutus takes one step back.
MARCUS
You have only to sign a treaty with Roma, and the Senate will forgive this unfortunate affair and crown you King of Syracuse.
HIPPOKRATES
I do not believe you. How do I know my wife is all right?
MARCUS
I will send Barnacle at this time tomorrow under escort. You may talk to him about her. Before he arrives, you can discuss your options with your war council. Send your answer back with Barnacle.
HIPPOKRATES
Very well then, we will meet Barnacle at the same gate tomorrow night at the same time.
Hippokrates stands up and everyone follows his lead.
FADE OUT.
FADE IN:
INT. INSIDE SYRACUSE ON A STREET NEAR THE EXTERIOR WALL - NIGHT
Zoippos leads the small party back toward the city gate. They walk in silence for a few minutes.
ZOIPPOS
(to Marcus)
The Senate offered the throne of Syracuse to me. You do not have the authority to crown Hippokrates king.
MARCUS
I have the authority to do whatever I want to conquer this city. Beside, you forget that I was there when the Senate made a deal with you. Not to you, to your wife.
ZOIPPOS
She died. Now the throne should pass to me.
MARCUS
Yes, she was. How convenient. If you recall, I said that you must deliver Syracuse to us or you get nothing. The Senate went along with that. I will remind the Senate of that agreement and hold you to it. Help me now, and you may still be king. Betray me, and I will kill you. Do we understand each other?
ZOIPPOS
(reluctantly)
As you have commanded.
(beat)
Do you really think they will sign a treaty?
MARCUS
No, of course not. They have not suffered enough. Besides, it is too late for that.
ZOIPPOS
Then why did you come into the city?
MARCUS
I wanted to see their defenses for myself. Do you see that tower over to the left there? The soldiers do not seem very alert. Do you think you can get some soldiers loyal to you assigned to that tower and the nearest gate?
ZOIPPOS
Yes, sir. That should be no problem. The soldiers are always looking for someone to stand their post for them.
MARCUS
Why does Archimedes hate you so much? I figure you poisoned King Heiron, but his anger seems more personal.
ZOIPPOS
My agents tried to kill Archimedes and Hippokrates but killed Archimedes’s wife instead.
MARCUS
That would explain it.
ZOIPPOS
Sir, I will slip away now a stay in the city. I have a plan to kill Hippokrates.
MARCUS.
Farewell. May the Gods aid you in your mission.
FADE OUT
FADE In
EXT. INSIDE SYRACUSE – DAY
Archimedes and Hippokrates are standing on the city wall watching a crew of elephants maneuver a stone into place on one of Archimedes’s machines. Zoippos enters wearing a cape over his weapon. He hides his face with the cape.
Archimedes sees a soldier approaching wearing a cape, unusual in this heat. Archimedes keeps an eye on him as he moves to a position behind Hippokrates. Suddenly, Zoippos throws off his cape and attacks Hippokrates.
ARCHIMEDES
Look out, Hippokrates!
Archimedes uses his staff to trip Zoippos. Two more assassins emerge from behind a corner of the wall and rush at Hippokrates. Hippokrates is the better swordsman and kills them. Archimedes keeps Zoippos on the ground.
HIPPOKRATES
Archimedes, you have once again proved that the lever is mightier than the sword.
Hippokrates raises his sword to kill Zoippos but hesitates. He has another idea. He signals his bodyguards to pick up Zoippos. The bodyguards take Zoippos over to a smaller stone and force him face down onto the stone. Hippokrates motions for one of the elephant handlers to bring his elephant over to Zoippos. The handler guides the elephant into position at Zoippos’s head. Guards on either side of hold his arms, and place a foot on his back. The elephant handler taps the elephant behind his knee, and the elephant raises his foot over Zoippos’s head. The handler looks up at Hippo and Archimedes standing on the wall above.
ZOIPPOS
(pleading)
In the name of Mars, no! Kill me with a sword! Cut off my head but not this! This is no way for a soldier to die.
ARCHIMEDES
You killed people not in battle but by trickery. You are not a soldier.
HIPPOKRATES
I avenge the deaths of all the people you killed including Helena.
ZOIPPOS
Let me live, and I will tell you everything.
HIPPOKRATES
It is too late for that. You should have come to me before you killed my father and the rest of the royal family.
Hippokrates points to the elephant handler who then taps the foot of the elephant. With a thud, the huge foot falls on Zoippos's head, which explodes with a crack, splashing blood and brains on the elephant, the guards and the walls. The guards drag his body and the bodies of the other two assassins upon the wall and throw them into the harbor.
HIPPOKRATES
(to Archimedes)
You saved my life. How can I repay you?
ARCHIMEDES
Save my daughter. Save Syracuse.
SERIES OF SHOTS – THE CITY WALL IS TAKEN – NIGHT/DAY
A) Marcus releases Arsinoe and Barnacle to sail on to Alexandria in their small boat.
B) Barnacle sails toward the open sea on a heading for Alexandria. After sunset, Arsinoe convinces Barnacle to return to Syracuse under the cover of darkness.
C) A small band of Roman soldiers lead by Zoippos makes their way to the base of the city wall undetected. Each soldier wears only a loincloth, and carries a dagger. Charcoal blackens their skin.
D) At the gate nearest the tower, the small band meet men loyal to Zoippos, and are led into the tower where the guards are also loyal to Zoippos. The guards welcome the Romans into the tower.
E) Once the Romans control the tower, they signal to soldiers below to scale the wall with ladders.
F) Inside the tower, the Romans put on Syracusan armor and helmets, and wait until the next hour for the changing of the guards.
G) As the relief shift enters the tower, the Romans, who greatly outnumbered the relief guards, attack them from concealed places, and kill them all, quickly and quietly.
H) A number of the Romans with Syracuse supporters form up on the wall and march to the next tower. The Syracusans in the next tower, thinking them to be their relief guards, are caught off guard and quickly killed.
I) The Romans repeat this ruse for the remaining towers that have not been relieved. One by one, the Romans seize all the towers on the northern walls during the night.
J) Once the north wall is under Roman control, a runner is sent back to inform Marcus.
K) Two hours before sunrise, Appius orders his army to advance toward the city. They leave the wagons and catapults behind so that their noise will not alert the city. They use cloth to muffle the hooves of the few horses. Every soldier has wrapped his sword in cloth to prevent noise or reflection of moon light. They stop within arrow’s distance from the walls and await the signal to attack.
END OF SERIES
EXT. ON A BALCONY OF ONE TOWER, OVERLOOKING SYRACUSE WALL - NIGHT
Brutus is there with a soldier holding a signal flag. Other Roman officers are present. Marcus enters. His officers congratulated him as if the city has already been taken. He looks over the sleeping city of Syracuse as the twilight light begins to light the panorama below.
MARCUS
It is more beautiful than I thought. I have only seen it at night. It is obvious that this city has enjoyed many years of peace. Look at it.
BRUTUS
Yes, sir. As in all Greek cities that I have seen, they value all the arts except the art of war.
MARCUS
Still, it will be a shame to destroy all this. In a few hours we will plunder, steal treasure, rape women, and for what? Oh, well. Remind the men that the royal treasures belong to Roma. Give the signal to start the attack.
BRUTUS
Yes, sir. We are prepared.
Brutus points to the soldier who raises a signal flag on a long pole.
SERIES OF SHOTS – SYRACUSE IS CAPTURED - DAY
A) Soldiers raise signal flags on all the north wall towers.
B) Outside the wall, Appius’ army can see the signal flags. Without orders, every soldier silently stands and prepares for battle.
C) Once all the towers signal that they are ready, Brutus points to the soldier again. This time, the soldier quickly waves the flag back and forth. The other signal flags follow.
D) Buglers all along the wall sound the signal to attack.
E) The sound of the bugles awakes the citizens of Syracuse from their stupor and panic begins to spread.
F) Romans succeed in releasing the harbor chain from its anchor inside the city.
G) After the chain is dropped, the Roman fleet sails into the harbor.
H) Barnacle’s small ship with Arsinoe aboard sails unnoticed into the harbor behind the Roman fleet.
I) The Romans capture the city and begin looting.
END OF SERIES
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
INT. KING HERION’S THRONE ROOM – DAY
Hippokrates and his bodyguards are fighting with several Roman soldiers. Barnacle enters unseen and hides behind the throne. When Hippokrates kills the soldier he is fighting, Barnacle steps out.
BARNACLE
(shouting)
Hippokrates!
Hippokrates turns and sees Barnacle. He runs over to him.
HIPPPOKRATES
What are you doing here? You should be in Alexandria.
BARNACLE
Arsinoe made me come back.
HIPPOKRATES
Arsinoe? Where is she?
BARNACLE
She went to find her father. I have a ship in the harbor. We can escape.
HIPPOKRATES
(looks around at the losing battle)
Good. I will find Arsinoe and Archimedes and meet you at your ship. Make ready.
Hippokrates and Barnacle exit.
FADE OUT
FADE IN
INT. ARCHIMEDES’S PALACE - DAY
Roman OFFICER enters with SOLDIER ONE and SOLDIER TWO with swords drawn. One Soldier One admires a vase and picks it up for booty. The Officer hits him on his helmet. The vase shatters on the floor.
OFFICER
Not now! We have work to do. Find Archimedes!
With his sword, the Officer motions for Soldier One to go upstairs and Soldier Two toward the rear of the house while he searches the courtyard. After a few minutes, Soldier One calls from the workshop. The Officer races up the stairs and finds the workshop.
SOLDIER ONE
In here.
The Officer enters and sees Archimedes sitting at his workbench drawing figures.
OFFICER
Are you Archimedes?
(beat)
Are you the one called Archimedes?
ARCHIMEDES
(without looking up)
Yes.
OFFICER
I have orders to take you to my commander, Marcus. You are to come with me. On your feet!
ARCHIMEDES
Not now. I am working.
OFFICER
(to Soldier One)
Keep an eye on him. I will gather up these drawing and models.
The Officer finds a large rug, and begins to place various drawings and models in the center. Soldier Two enters, pulling Arsinoe by her hair.
SOLDIER TWO
Look what I found hiding, sir.
The officer stops collecting items, and looks at Arsinoe.
OFFICER
Who are you?
SOLDIER TWO
(grabbing Arsinoe by the throat)
Sir, this one is a pretty one. It would be a real pleasure to rape her.
Arsinoe tries to flee but Soldier Two grabs her hair, and pulls her to the floor. Ignoring Archimedes, Soldier One runs over, and pins Arsinoe’s arms down while Soldier Two starts to pull up her tunic. The Officer removes his sword and helmet. Arsinoe screams.
ARCHIMEDES
(now aware of what is happening)
Helena!
Archimedes grabs a short beam from his workbench; he starts to strike the officer. Before he can deliver a blow, Soldier Two stabs him with his sword, and Archimedes falls to the floor. Realizing what they have done, the soldiers release Arsinoe.
ARSINOE
Abba! Abba!
Arsinoe rushes to her father. She tries to protect him from another blow with own body. The soldiers raise their swords to kill her.
OFFICER
Stop! Put down your swords!
The soldiers comply. Arsinoe attempts to stop the flow OF BLOOD.
ARCHIMEDES
(0pening his eyes)
Helena?
ARSINOE
No, father, it is me, Arsinoe.
ARCHIMDES
(recognizes his daughter at last)
Arsinoe?
ASIMNOE
Yes, father. These soldiers attacked you.
ARCHIMEDES
I sent you to Alexandria.
ARSINOE
Yes, Abba, but I could not go. My place is with Hippokrates.”
ARCHIMEDES
And the city?
ARSINOE
Romans have taken the walls, and are inside.”
ARCHIMDEDES
Then all is lost. I cannot defend the city when the enemy is inside.
ARSINOE
Do not talk, Abba. We’ll get a doctor.”
ARCHIMDES
I tried to save you but I failed, just like I failed your mother. All is lost: Syracuse, your mother, and you!
ARSINOE
Be still! Do not try to talk.
ARCHIMDES
No! I have not been a good father. I should have saved you. I should have sent you with your mother months ago. Now all is lost.”
ARSINOE
(crying)
No, father, you did save me. I chose to come back. I must be with my husband, just like mother stayed by your side. You could not send us away. We are strong women who belong with our husbands. You are not to blame.”
ARCHIMEDES
Yes, you are a lot like your mother. Bury me with her.
(choking on blood)
I cannot see the stars.
ARSINOE
It is daylight, father. There are no stars to see.
Archimedes closes his eye and dies in his daughter’s arms. Arsinoe holds his head to her buxom and strokes his hair, crying softly. Hippokrates enters. He quickly kills the soldiers and the officer.
HIPPOKRATES
Your father?
ARSINOE
He is dead. Just now.
HIPPOKRATES
Quickly. We must go. The Romans have captured the city.
Hippokrates drags a reluctant Arsinoe out of the room. Hippokrates and Arsinoe exit
FADE OUT
FADE IN
SERIES OF SHOTS – HIPPOKRATES AND ARSINOE ESCAPE - DAY
A) Hippokrates and Arsinoe exit Archimedes’s palace and make their way through the streets of Syracuse. Hippokrates has to fight off attackers.
B) Hippokrates and Arsinoe arrive at the harbor and desperately look for Barnacle’s ship. Arsinoe leads the way to the ship. Barnacle helps them board.
C) Barnacle sails the ship out of the harbor.
D) Hippokrates and Arsinoe stand at in the stern and watch as Syracuse burns.
END OH SERIES
FADE OUT
FADE IN:
EXT. IN A GRAVEYARD IN SICILY - DAY
Cicero sits on a stone with the Mayor of Syracuse. Workers are cutting brush in the background. One of the workers approaches and speaks to the Mayor.
MAYOR
We have a path cut through the underbrush. You can walk up to the tomb now.
Cicero and the Mayor walk through the underbrush to view the tomb.
CICERO
I remembered having heard of some simple lines of verse that inscribed on his tomb, referring to a sphere and cylinder modeled in stone on top of the grave.
(pulling away some vines)
There! The verses are still visible, though the second half of each line has worn away. So one of the most famous cities in the Greek world, and in former days a great center of learning as well, would have remained in total ignorance of this tomb of the most brilliant citizen it had ever produced, Archimedes, if a man from Arpinum had not come and pointed it out!
FADE OUT
THE END
