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. As Tiberius’ empire declines, Claudius learns from Livia, the "Queen of Heaven", of her crimes - a nd his future as emperor. Claudius helps remove Sejanus as a threat to Tiberius, but the bloodbath in "Reign of Terror" almost destroys him. Then Caligula promises prosperity as emperor but descends into madness in "Zeus, By Jove!". Serie s director Herbert Wise; stars Derek Jacobi, Siân Phillips, Brian Blessed, Patrick Stewart, John Hurt.