Cornelius is a name that can refer to various historical and fictional figures. One notable Cornelius is Cornelius the Centurion, a character in the New Testament of the Bible. He is recognized as the first Gentile convert to Christianity, symbolizing the expansion of the faith beyond Jewish communities. In popular culture, Cornelius is also a character in the Planet of the Apes franchise. He is an intelligent ape who plays a significant role in the storyline, often representing the themes of evolution and the struggle for freedom. Both figures highlight important aspects of their respective narratives.