The Hindu : New Delhi News : The Romans are coming

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Friday, Nov 02, 2007
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New Delhi

The Romans are coming

Madhur Tankha

History Channel’s eight-part series from November 5

Viewers can now watch from Monday to Thursday
Rome: The First Empire — Caesar” goes on
air on November 6

NEW DELHI: Unravelling the secrets and mysteries surrounding one of the most powerful empires in the world is The History Channel’s brand new series titled “Rome: The First Empire” premiering on November 5.

Viewers can now watch from Monday to Thursday unfolding of historic events that led to the rise and fall of the mighty Roman Empire.

Roman life

Based on extensive research, this captivating series portrays Roman life as gritty, sordid yet magnificent.

To bring alive the historic places, people and events in an entertaining format, the eight-part series showcases some of the most powerful Roman rulers including Nero, Julius Caesar and Constantine.

Computer graphic imagery has been mixed with compelling drama, a stunning cast and spectacular live action battles to show how the empire was formed, how it achieved maximum power and why it eventually failed.

On November 5 the episode “Rome: The First Empire — Nero” showcases the journey of one of the famous rulers Nero who committed suicide after he was condemned to death by the Senate. Julius Caesar is probably the most famous Roman emperor of them all — a maverick, a soldier of genius, charming and brilliant. “Rome: The First Empire — Caesar” that goes on the air on November 6 will explain how he seized power.

How the 500-year-old Roman republic was bought down by a young man called Tiberius Gracchus, described as a brave soldier, is shown in the episode “Rome: The First Empire — Revolution” that will be aired the next day.

Jewish revolt

The Jewish revolt was the biggest rebellion by a province in Roman history. “Rome: The First Empire — Rebellion (Jewish Revolt)” beaming on November 8 tells the story of how Rome turned to the disgraced General Vespasian and his son Titus to put it down.

Revealing the story of how Constantine united Rome, using military might and a new religion, Christianity, is the episode “Rome: The First Empire — Constantine” on November 12.

In AD 410, the Goth hordes captured Rome.

\This event, more than any other, symbolised imperial decline. “Rome: The First Empire — Fall of Rome” on November 13 will show the fall of the empire.

Bringing alive the story of one of history’s greatest military leaders Hannibal is “Rome: The First Empire — The true story of Hannibal” (Part I) that will be aired on November 14.

Showcasing the story of the Carthaginian general who struck fear in all Roman hearts and wrought havoc with his masterful military tactics is the two-hour special episode “Rome: The First Empire — The true story of Hannibal” (Part II) on November 15.

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