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I, Claudius

By: Robert Graves
Narrated by: Derek Jacobi
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Summary

Here is a major new recording and the riveting account of Ancient Rome in all its madness and debauchery.

The politics of empire-building and the hypocrisies, back-stabbings, and corruptions of Rome's first family come to light. First published in 1934, the book retains a marvelously modern and often comic tone, and is written in the form of Claudius' autobiography. This is gripping stuff, read by one of our finest actors, who also starred as Claudius in the classic television series.

©2007 CSA Telltapes Ltd. (P)2007 CSA Telltapes Ltd.
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What listeners say about I, Claudius

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Of course

It's Derek Jacobi, of course it is brilliant. I wish I had the background knowledge to know what proportion is true history, but it doesn't matter. The tale stands on it's own.

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Abridged but still a pleasure

I would have preferred the whole thing and length be damned but having Derek Jacobi read these is just so good.

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Splendid!!!!

I loved this book decades ago when I read it first -
BUT THIS TIME I LOVED IT EVEN MORE :-)

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Engaging narration

This is a great book, even if Mary Beard suggests that Graves' account is not accurate. Derek Jacobi delivers a riveting performance

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Understandably a classic.

A human and in depth look at the Julio-Claudian reigns, and some behind-the-scenes storytelling bringing mysteries to light, in a greatly entertaining way. Some parts and details are from my knowledge not fact, but a great deal is, and a lot of the mysteries and unanswered questions of the time explained with great logic. Considering the times of the writing, it’s amazing, and from the point of view of good old Claudius, you get a sympathetic yet reasonable storyteller. I cant wait to read the sequel.

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A classic work superbly narrated

A classic work superbly narrated. Glad I finally got round to this one. First class.

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Fantastic

Wish I’d read this years ago. Best book I’ve read all year - makes sense now why it’s such a classic!

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Jacobi reading Claudius, what could be better?

What made the experience of listening to I, Claudius the most enjoyable?

Grave's story of Claudius' life is extraordinary in many ways but for those who grew up with the BBC version, Jacobi's voice is inextricably linked. I can't imagine it being done in any other way.

What was one of the most memorable moments of I, Claudius?

Claudius' interview with his poisonous grandmother Livia has the power to chill but I always enjoyed the story of his childhood encounter with the eagle and wolf cubs more.

Have you listened to any of Derek Jacobi’s other performances? How does this one compare?

His version of Claudius the God is an absolute must if you enjoyed this.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

If I could take this all in one go, I certainly would. I'd say you need to listen to it in largeish chunks to appreciate it at it's best.

Any additional comments?

It is abridged but so well done that I didn't miss any of the in included detail.

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Excellent tale

Loved it! Beautifully read by Derek Jacobi who really brought the whole historical story to life.

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I, Claudius

Very enjoyable and the perfect length for an audiobook. I look forward to Claudius the God.

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