Ep 1. The Orgy

In the first episode of Plebs, entitled "The Orgy," we are introduced to three young men living in ancient Rome who are determined to make a name for themselves in the big city. Marcus, Stylax, and their scribe friend Grumio are all looking for love, fame, and fortune, but their lack of resources and connections makes life in the city difficult.

The episode begins with a slow pan of the bustling streets of Rome, filled with people going about their daily business. A horse-drawn cart pulls up to a modest apartment building, and out step Marcus and Stylax, eager to start their day. They are roommates, and their shared living space is small and sparsely furnished. Marcus is a would-be lawyer who spends most of his time studying, while Stylax is perpetually on the hunt for women and a good time.

After a bit of banter between the two friends, they receive a visit from their wealthy neighbor, Rufus. Rufus is a successful lawyer who lords his success over Marcus at every opportunity, but he also invites the pair to an upcoming orgy being hosted by his wealthy friend, Julius. Marcus is hesitant, wanting to focus on his studies, but Stylax convinces him that this is their chance to get in with the upper class and make a name for themselves.

The rest of the episode follows the trio as they try to figure out how to get invited to the orgy, with Stylax and Grumio concocting a plan to dress up as slaves and infiltrate the party. Marcus is less enthusiastic about this idea but eventually gives in, and the three of them set off to Julius's villa.

Once they arrive at the villa, the true nature of the party becomes clear - it's not simply a casual get-together but a full-blown Bacchanalia, with people indulging in every vice imaginable. Drugs, sex, and excess are the order of the day, and the trio quickly become overwhelmed by it all. Stylax becomes enamored with a mysterious woman who claims to be the sister of the host, while Grumio samples some of the food and drink on offer. Marcus, meanwhile, is horrified by the whole affair and tries to leave, only to be caught by the host and forced to partake in the festivities.

As the night wears on, the trio become more and more embroiled in the debauchery, with Marcus eventually losing his cool and causing a scene. The group is thrown out of the party, with Stylax and Grumio making a quick escape while Marcus is left to face the wrath of the partygoers.

The next day, the fallout from the party continues, with Marcus refusing to speak to his friends and Stylax and Grumio trying to convince him that the night was worth it. In the end, they all come to some sort of understanding, but it's clear that their pursuit of fame and fortune in Rome will continue to be a bumpy road.

Overall, "The Orgy" is a fast-paced and irreverent introduction to the world of Plebs, showcasing the show's unique blend of slapstick comedy and historical satire. While the humor can be crude at times, the character dynamics are strong, and the show's infectious energy makes it easy to get swept up in the adventures of Marcus, Stylax, and Grumio.