Hail Who?

The episode begins with Claudius at Calpurnia's house. He receives a letter from his long-time friend, Herod. Included is a special gift. Claudius also receives a late night call from Caligula. He is to be the official bouncer at Caligula's latest Palace fundraiser. Always the creative one, Caligula has come up with another way of filling the coffers.

Claudius attempts to appease his nephew, but ends up busting up things, ironically, with the help of Caligula, who enters the scene and pretends to be shocked at the sight of his own creation ~ Gambling at Rick's, I'm shocked. Shocked!

Another early scene involves Claudius entering Caligula's camp in Germania. When Caligula asks for the carts he ordered, Claudius makes a big mistake and tells the truth. This scene is particularly humorous and revealing at the same time. I love Claudius' ability to ad lib and appease Little Boots with his corny recitation as the old Vulcan. He kisses Caligula's butt big time here, but saves some lives including his own.

There is much much more. This is definitely my favorite episode. There are so many reasons why and not all of them are quaff related. Thank Jove!

Herod's gift to Claudius
A madman's war
Discontent with the Senate
The spoils of war
Dance of the Dawn
Marriage to Messalina
etc.

My favorite line this episode: "If you only had one neck, I'd hack it through."