Marcus Numidius, a Roman tribune sent to Armenia to put down a gladiators' revolt, captures the rebels' popular leader, Aselepius. Princess Amira, with ambitions of being Queen and jealous of Asclepius' popularity, plans his death in the arena by substituting a lion for his human opponent

September 1943. After Italy surrenders to the Allies, most people in Naples believe the war is finally over, but soon realize Germans are still in control—and as ruthless as ever. Armed with makeshift weapons, the Neapolitan civilians spontaneously rise up en masse against their occupants—and overwhelming odds, driving them from the city after four days of fighting.