Ep 1. A Touch of Murder

In the first episode of I, Claudius, titled "A Touch of Murder," we are introduced to the main character, Claudius, a historian for the Roman Empire who is looked down upon by his family due to his physical disabilities and stutter. The episode begins with the death of Emperor Augustus and the power struggle that ensues between his wife Livia and her two potential successors, Tiberius and Postumus.

As the intrigue and scheming unfold, Claudius finds himself caught in the middle of it all, with members of his own family attempting to use him for their own gain. Livia, who is notorious for her manipulative ways, takes a liking to Claudius and begins to confide in him, revealing her true nature and the lengths she will go to in order to secure power.

Meanwhile, Claudius' own mother Antonia and his sister Livilla are conspiring to overthrow Livia and create a more favorable succession for themselves. Claudius, who has underestimated his own family's thirst for power, finds himself in the middle of a deadly plot to poison Postumus, which ultimately leads to his own involvement in a murder investigation.

The tension and drama build throughout the episode, with each character vying for power and willing to go to extreme lengths to secure it. The viewer is left on edge as Claudius attempts to navigate this treacherous world, constantly struggling under the weight of his disabilities and his own sense of morality.

Overall, the first episode of I, Claudius sets the stage for a complex and thrilling drama filled with political intrigue and fascinating characters. With superb acting and intricate storytelling, it is clear that this series is deserving of its critical acclaim and devoted fan base.