Julius Caesar: The Making of a Dictator
PBS WESTERN RESERVE (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Tuesdays, April 2–16, at 9 PM
Wednesdays, April 3–17, at 2 AM
A story of a brazen power grab that saw Julius Caesar consolidate the vast Roman Republic in his own hands, this three-part series is told through the eyes of an expert cast of British and American historians, scholars and political operatives. Illustrated with artful dramatic moments and packed with contemporary resonances, JULIUS CAESAR has all the elements of the best political thrillers, with complex power dynamics playing out for enormous stakes.
High Priest
Tuesday, April 2, at 9 PM
Wednesday, April 3, at 2 AM
Trace Caesar’s ambitious rise as he seeks to become consul, the highest political position in Rome. He forms dangerous alliances and bends the rules of the Roman Republic, courting the popular vote, exploiting division and using bribery and intimidation to get his own way. However, his unconventional approach to politics and disregard for established customs sets him at odds with the conservative elite within the Senate. One man — Cato — is determined to bring him down.
Veni Vidi Vici
Tuesday, April 9, at 9 PM
Wednesday, April 10, at 2 AM
Caesar has brokered an uneasy alliance with the two other most powerful men in the republic, Pompey and Crassus, and the trio dominates the political system. Caesar leaves Rome to take the governorship of Gaul (modern-day France) to conquer its people and win greater power and prestige. Events beyond his control, however, threaten to unravel his plans and leave him isolated. Backed into a corner, he makes a decision that will change the course of the republic — and Western history — forever.
Ides of March
Tuesday, April 16, at 9 PM
Wednesday, April 17, at 2 AM
As Caesar takes control of Rome and consolidates his grip over the republic, he awards himself ever-greater powers. Appointed dictator for one year to restore peace, he soon extends this to 10 years and becomes “dictator for life.”
His ambition turned to tyranny, Caesar has become untouchable, and Rome is now essentially a dictatorship. A handful of senators, including some of his closest allies, plot to end his rule in the only way they can: by taking his life. But will that be enough to save the republic?