Marcus Agrippa, Augustus’s loyal general, resents the young and arrogant Marcellus.
The narrative shifts back to 24 BC during the reign of Augustus. The Emperor celebrates the anniversary of the Battle of Actium, but tension simmers beneath the surface. Augustus favors his nephew Marcellus as his heir, much to the silent fury of Livia, Augustus’s wife. Livia is determined to see her own son, Tiberius, take the throne at any cost. Key Plot Points
💡 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? I, Claudius Season 1 - Episode 1
The deadliest threats to the Roman elite come from within their own dining rooms.
Livia manipulates Augustus into marrying his daughter Julia to Marcellus to solidify the succession. Augustus favors his nephew Marcellus as his heir,
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.
Livia begins a cold, calculated campaign to eliminate anyone standing in Tiberius’s way. The deadliest threats to the Roman elite come
Morose and reluctant, he feels like a pawn in his mother’s grand design.