Abstract
<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title> <jats:p>This chapter considers how the popular anime One Piece uses culturally specific elements from Roman antiquity to further the plot and characterize places and people in the Dressrosa narrative arc, so named after the fictional kingdom where this arc takes place. The anime version elaborates an Occidentalist trope found in the original manga that has a long tradition in Japanese animation: that of ancient Rome as a society characterized by excess and violence, destined for an inevitable downfall. A gladiatorial-inspired tournament drives the plot, which the anime interprets in positive terms, thereby challenging the stereotypical trope. However, these interpretations are aligned with traditional Japanese bushido ideals, while the corrupt power structure of the kingdom of Dressrosa does indeed crumble and fall at the end of the arc. The chapter analyzes the interplay between Occidentalist stereotypes and innovation in the reception of Roman antiquity in this highly successful contemporary anime series.</jats:p>