Death of Claudius
Emperor Claudius lies dying in his bedchamber, poisoned by his wife Agrippina to secure her son Nero's succession. The physician and attendants hover nervously, aware of the gravity of the moment but
Setting
The imperial bedchamber in the Domus Tiberiana on Palatine Hill, Rome. The room is lavishly decorated with frescoes depicting scenes of Roman conquests and mythological figures. The large bed dominates the center of the room, surrounded by marble columns and draped with rich purple and gold fabrics.
Characters
Claudius
primary
A frail man in his early sixties, with thinning gray hair and a weak, pallid complexion. His face is lined with age and illness, though his piercing brown eyes still hold a glimmer of sharp intelligence. His hands tremble slightly, and his lips are dry and cracked.
Agrippina
primary
A striking woman in her early forties with a statuesque build, sharp features, and piercing dark eyes. Her pale complexion contrasts with her dark, intricately braided hair, adorned with golden hairpins. Her posture exudes confidence, though her hands are clenched slightly, betraying tension.
Physician
secondary
A middle-aged Greek physician with a lean, wiry build, his olive skin marked by deep worry lines around his dark, intelligent eyes. His short, curly black hair is streaked with gray, and his neatly trimmed beard shows signs of recent neglect. His hands are slender and precise, the fingers currently trembling slightly as they press against Claudius's wrist.
Slave Boy
background
A young boy of about 12 years, slight in build with short, dark hair and wide, fearful eyes. His skin is lightly tanned from exposure to the sun, and his hands are rough from menial labor.
Dialog
Claudius
Jupiter... preserve... the emperor...
Agrippina
My lord must conserve his strength. The physician assures us the fever will pass.
Claudius
Dis Pater... take you... Agrippina...
Agrippina
The gods have woven his thread, as they weave all men's. We must accept their will.
Claudius
Poison... in the... mushrooms...
Agrippina
The delirium speaks, not the emperor. Let him rest now.
Claudius
Rome... remember...