Marcus Agrippa, Augustus’s loyal general, resents the young and arrogant Marcellus.
I, Claudius (1976) – Episode 1: "A Touch of Murder" The series opens in 54 AD with an elderly, frail Emperor Claudius. He is writing his secret history, fearing his wife Agrippina intends to poison him. He reflects on his family’s past to explain how he became the unlikely survivor of the Julio-Claudian dynasty.
Morose and reluctant, he feels like a pawn in his mother’s grand design. I, Claudius Season 1 - Episode 1
💡 If you'd like to continue with the series: Summaries for specific future episodes A breakdown of Livia's most famous schemes Historical accuracy comparisons Which would you prefer to explore next?
Livia manipulates Augustus into marrying his daughter Julia to Marcellus to solidify the succession. He reflects on his family’s past to explain
Claudius believes his survival is due to his perceived "idiocy," which makes him non-threatening to Livia.
Powerful but easily manipulated by Livia’s domestic "advice." Livia manipulates Augustus into marrying his daughter Julia
Augustus maintains the illusion of a Republic while wielding absolute power.