This acclaimed BBC series, based on the novels by Robert Graves, follows the history of the Roman Empire from approximately 24 B.C. to 54 A.D. The series begins grimly with "A Touch of Murder", as Claudius’ grandmother Livia poisons Caesar A ugustus’ heir Marcellus. Next, "Family Affairs" go badly, as Tiberius’ banishment to Rhodes threatens Livia’s ambitions for her son. In "Waiting in the Wings" bloody competition for the throne intensifies, and a favorable p ortent ushers in young Claudius. Series director Herbert Wise; stars Derek Jacobi, Siân Phillips, Brian Blessed, Patrick Stewart, John Hurt.