I, CLaudius & Claudius the God, br Robert Graves
Created | Updated Jan 28, 2002
These two books are a semi fictional account of the lives and reigns of many of the Augustan period of Roman emporers. The books are written in first person by an aging Emperor Claudius who is writing a candid history of his family from memory and mementoes and papers he has kept. His "history" begins midway through the reign of Augustus and continues through to Claudius' death when his adopted son Nero murders him and takes the throne. It tells of the scandal and intrigues within the family as they vie for power, glory, and ultmately the rule of Rome and her provinces.
Much of this work is based on Seutonius'(born AD 69) "The Twelve Ceasars". This work was written after the rule of Nero, and much of it is factual. There is much of it, however, that is not and is based in rumour and half remembered stories. The Claudius books also draw from other writers of the day and archeological knowledge.
Tbese books are fascinating to read, with or without previous knwoledge of the period, and can make your toes curl with some of the lurid detail of certain "intimate" moments. The books were dramatised by the BBC, and starred (Sir) Derek Jacobi as Claudius.
Much of this work is based on Seutonius'(born AD 69) "The Twelve Ceasars". This work was written after the rule of Nero, and much of it is factual. There is much of it, however, that is not and is based in rumour and half remembered stories. The Claudius books also draw from other writers of the day and archeological knowledge.
Tbese books are fascinating to read, with or without previous knwoledge of the period, and can make your toes curl with some of the lurid detail of certain "intimate" moments. The books were dramatised by the BBC, and starred (Sir) Derek Jacobi as Claudius.
