An exploration of the public and private lives of six rulers of ancient Rome: Julius Caesar, Augustus, Nero, Hadrian, Constantine and Justinian. Their careers were defined by bloody battles, far-reaching innovations and profound corruption.
EPISODE 1
Julius Caesar: I Am Not King But Caesar
Julius Caesar's ambition creates a colossal empire, and he gives his name to the rulers who succeed him. He has been a symbol of power and majesty for 2000 years.
EPISODE 2
Augustus: First Of The Emperors
The story of Augustus, who went from little-known statesman and relative of Julius Caesar to Roman emperor.
EPISODE 3
Nero: The Power And The Madness
He is 17 when he takes the throne and, during his capricious 14-year rule, Nero almost brings the empire to ruin. He is unable to quell rebellions and has many political enemies killed.
EPISODE 4
Hadrian: Within These Walls
Hadrian overturns centuries-old policies, declaring an end to expansions and abandoning far-flung territories. He is an enthusiastic patron of the arts, a champion of the common Roman, and a tireless diplomat who tours the entire empire.
EPISODE 5
Constantine: Bearing The Cross
An exploration of how Emperor Constantine embraced Christianity and unified a Roman world deep in crisis.
EPISODE 6
Justinian: Last Of The Romans
He lived more than 500 years after Caesar and ruled from Constantinople, not Rome, but Justinian restored the empire to its former glory one last time.
Brian Cox
Phil Grabsky
Peter Nicholson
