About this season
This stylish mix of documentary and historical epic chronicles the reign of Commodus, the emperor whose rule marked the beginning of Rome's fall.
Episodes (6)
1. Born in the Purple
6.7Aired 11 November 2016 • 49 min
Fighting an implacable enemy in Germany, Marcus Aurelius trains his decadent son Commodus to succeed him, while rumor and intrigues brew back in Rome.
2. The Making of an Emperor
7.0Aired 11 November 2016 • 44 min
The Germanic tribes strike as Marcus Aurelius succumbs to disease, leaving a skeptical Emperor Commodus to prosecute a war that doesn't interest him.
3. Enemy of the Senate
6.9Aired 11 November 2016 • 49 min
Commodus rises to power as Rome's new emperor, but not everyone supports his ascent. Among those conspiring against him: his older sister Lucilla.
4. Rome is Burning
6.9Aired 11 November 2016 • 45 min
Commodus defeats his sister's coup but withdraws from governing, allowing other to amass power while he engages in an affair and banishes his wife.
5. Fight for Glory
7.4Aired 11 November 2016 • 49 min
A disastrous grain shortage reaveals Cleander's treachery and leaves Commodus isolated, inspiring him to trains as a gladiator in a bid to unite Rome.
6. 14 Days Of Blood
7.3Aired 11 November 2016 • 45 min
Lavish imperial games at the Colosseum are highlighted by the emperor's bloody victories, but his paranoid abuses of power lead to a final betrayal.