Ep 3. What Shall We Do About Claudius?

In I, Claudius season 1 episode 3, titled "What Shall We Do About Claudius?", the family of Emperor Augustus is in turmoil as they try to figure out what to do with Claudius, the stuttering and physically disabled grandson of Augustus. Claudius has always been seen as the family joke, someone who is unable to fulfill his duties due to his disabilities. However, when Tiberius and Germanicus both die suddenly, Claudius finds himself next in line for the throne.

At the beginning of the episode, Claudius is seen wandering around the palace, lost in his thoughts and trying to avoid the political scheming of his family. His mother, Antonia, is worried about him and tries to convince him to leave Rome for his own safety. Meanwhile, Livia, the devious wife of Augustus, is trying to come up with a plan to get rid of Claudius once and for all.

As the episode progresses, we see the inner workings of the family as they try to figure out what to do with Claudius. Augustus is torn between his love for his grandson and his duties as emperor, while his wife Livia is constantly plotting to ensure that her own son, Tiberius, takes the throne. Other family members, including Augustus' granddaughter Julia and her husband Agrippa, are also involved in the scheming and plotting.

As the family tries to come up with a plan, we see Claudius slowly beginning to come into his own. He realizes that he has information that could be useful for his own survival and begins to use it to his advantage. Through a series of flashbacks, we see Claudius' past experiences and how they have shaped him into the person he is today.

One of the most interesting aspects of this episode is the exploration of Claudius' disability. We see how his stutter and his limp have made him the target of ridicule and humiliation, but we also see how he has used his intelligence and his wit to survive. In one scene, he outmaneuvers his cousin Postumus, who is trying to get him to confess to a crime he didn't commit. In another scene, he reveals a hidden talent for writing and storytelling.

As the episode comes to a close, the family comes to a decision about what to do with Claudius. Without giving away any spoilers, it's safe to say that the decision is not what anyone expects. The episode ends with a cliffhanger, leaving us eager to see what happens next.

Overall, "What Shall We Do About Claudius?" is a fascinating episode that delves deep into the political intrigue of ancient Rome. It's also a powerful exploration of disability and the ways in which society can both support and reject those who are different. With strong performances by the entire cast, this episode is not to be missed.