087799
Harmondsworth etc.
1985
11×18
meki
443
engleski
Cijena: 10,00 EUR
The book (1935) is a historical novel by Robert Graves and a sequel to his famous work I, Claudius. Written in the form of a fictional autobiography, the book follows the life of the Roman emperor Claudius from his unexpected ascension to the throne in 41 AD to his death in 54 AD. Claudius, who was considered the "fool of the family", proves to be a surprisingly capable administrator. He focuses on reforming the laws, building the port at Ostia, and stabilizing the finances after Caligula's tyranny. The central military event of the novel is Claudius' invasion of Britain, which Graves describes in great detail, from the battle strategy to his triumphant return to Rome. A significant part of the book is devoted to Claudius' friendship with the Jewish king Herod Agrippa, who secretly conspires to unite the East under his rule, believing himself to be the Messiah. Claudius's rule is undermined by his third wife, Messalina. While he is busy with state affairs, she leads a dissolute life and eventually participates in a conspiracy against him, which leads to her execution. In old age, a disillusioned Claudius resigns himself to his fate. He marries his niece Agrippina, knowing that she will appoint her son Nero as his heir, which will mark the end of Claudius' dream of restoring the Republic. Graves writes in the "first person" using ancient sources such as Suetonius and Tacitus, creating the impression of an authentic historical document. Claudius is portrayed as a tragic, wise, but often naive character who uses his supposed weakness (a stammer and a limp) as a shield in the dangerous world of imperial politics. Both novels were adapted into the cult BBC series I, Claudius in 1976, starring Derek Jacobi.
