Ep 6. I, Claudius: The BBC Makes an Anti-Epic

A Historian Goes to the Movies: Ancient Rome is a documentary series that explores how Hollywood and television have depicted ancient Rome in popular media. In the sixth episode of season one, titled "I, Claudius: The BBC Makes an Anti-Epic", historian Dr. Peter Frankopan examines the acclaimed television series I, Claudius and its unique approach to depicting the decline of the Roman Empire.

Frankopan begins by discussing the traditional Hollywood approach to ancient Rome, which often focuses on big-budget epics with extravagant sets and grandiose battles. He notes that these films often romanticize Rome and simplify its history, painting a picture of a powerful, prosperous empire that eventually fell due to outside forces.

In contrast, Frankopan argues that I, Claudius takes a more nuanced and realistic approach to ancient Rome. The series, which aired on the BBC in the 1970s, tells the story of Rome's decline from the perspective of the historian Tacitus. It portrays the emperors and other historical figures as complex and flawed individuals, rather than one-dimensional heroes or villains.

Frankopan notes that I, Claudius was groundbreaking in many ways, including its use of a primarily British cast and its frank depiction of sexuality and violence. He also discusses how the series explores themes such as political corruption, social inequality, and the role of women in ancient Rome.

Throughout the episode, Frankopan speaks with a variety of experts on Roman history, including classicists, archaeologists, and authors. Together, they analyze scenes from I, Claudius and discuss how accurately the show portrays various aspects of Roman life.

At the same time, Frankopan also acknowledges some of the criticisms leveled at I, Claudius over the years. For example, some have argued that the show perpetuates negative stereotypes about disability through its portrayal of the stuttering, crippled emperor Claudius. Others have criticized the series for downplaying the role of slavery in ancient Rome.

Despite these criticisms, Frankopan ultimately argues that I, Claudius remains a landmark achievement in the history of television. By challenging traditional views of ancient Rome and presenting a more complex and realistic portrayal of its history, the series helped to shape our understanding of this fascinating period of human history.

As with previous episodes of A Historian Goes to the Movies: Ancient Rome, "I, Claudius: The BBC Makes an Anti-Epic" is engaging and thought-provoking, offering viewers a deeper appreciation of both ancient Rome and the art of filmmaking.