Ep 2. Waiting in the Wings

In I, Claudius season 1 episode 2, titled "Waiting in the Wings," the story continues to follow the Roman Emperor Augustus’ family members as they vie for power and position in the Empire. The episode starts with the death of Emperor Augustus and the mourning of his family members. Livia, Augustus' wife and a master manipulator, continues her machinations to get her son Tiberius chosen as the new Emperor, despite the opposition of Augustus’ granddaughter and Livia's own grandson, Postumus.

While the political ramifications of Augustus’ death play out, Claudius, the central character and narrator of the series, is relegated to the background, considered a weak and bumbling member of the family. However, he slowly becomes privy to the inner workings of the court, as he befriends the new Emperor Tiberius.

As the courtiers jostle for power, Livia continues her plans to secure her position as the most influential member of the family. She invites her granddaughter Julia to her villa, ostensibly to console her over Augustus’ death, but really to manipulate her into falling in love with her own son, Tiberius. Julia, who has a reputation for promiscuity, is initially amused by the idea of an incestuous relationship but eventually refuses Livia's proposal.

Meanwhile, Tiberius is away fighting battles in the east, and Livia sees this as an opportunity to further cement her power. She begins to plot against Postumus, who she sees as a potential threat to her own son's rule. She convinces Augustus' advisors to banish Postumus to an island, essentially exiling him from the court and rendering him powerless.

As Livia's plot unfolds, Claudius begins to realize the true nature of her actions. He is shocked and appalled by the ruthless way she manipulates those around her, and he begins to consider his own role in the court. He sees that Livia's machinations have made her the most powerful person in the family, and he begins to question whether Tiberius, who has been heavily influenced by Livia, will be a good Emperor.

As the episode draws to a close, Claudius is faced with a difficult decision. He has to choose whether to align himself with Livia and Tiberius, or try to resist their power and stand up for what he believes to be right. The episode ends on a cliffhanger, leaving viewers unsure of what Claudius will do next and how his actions will shape the future of the Empire.

Overall, "Waiting in the Wings" is a compelling episode that continues to build upon the complex relationships and political intrigue that define the series. It is a great example of the show's ability to balance historical accuracy with engaging storytelling and complex characters. Fans of historical dramas will love this episode and the series as a whole, which remains a classic of the genre.