Quintus Claudius

A trireme approaches the coast of Campania at dawn, carrying Caius Aurelius toward Rome. While his freedman Herodianus argues with the steersman over geography, language and social rank, the young master quietly watches the sea. These exchanges open the first volume of Ernst Eckstein's historical novel, translated from German by Clara Bell, and bring the setting into focus through shipboard routines, personal pride and the landscape along the route.

Within the imperial household, a different contest takes shape. Domitia wants Stephanus to disgrace an enemy, and he considers how Quintus Claudius might be connected with an escaped slave. Ambition and unequal power link these scenes of private conversation to wider court intrigue. Readers interested in historical fiction can follow the tensions between masters and servants while observing the customs surrounding them. Eckstein's preface also explains his use of notes to provide sources and complete the historical picture.