The Stolen Eagle facts for kids

The Stolen Eagle is the very first episode of a cool historical TV show called Rome. This show was made by HBO and the BBC, and it's all about ancient Rome. The episode first came out in the United States on August 28, 2005. It featured actors like Ciarán Hinds, Kevin McKidd, Ray Stevenson, and Polly Walker.

What is "The Stolen Eagle" About?

This episode kicks off the story of Rome, a TV series that takes you back to the time of ancient Rome. It shows what life was like for people during a very important period in Roman history. The show focuses on real historical events and people, but it also tells the stories of two ordinary Roman soldiers.

Setting the Scene in Ancient Rome

The story of The Stolen Eagle begins in the year 52 BC. This was a time when the Roman Republic was very powerful but also facing many changes. Julius Caesar, a famous Roman general, was leading his armies in a war far away in Gaul (which is now France). He had been fighting there for many years and was about to finish his conquest.

The Main Characters Introduced

The episode introduces us to two Roman soldiers: Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo. Vorenus is a serious and disciplined officer, while Pullo is more impulsive and likes to have fun. They are both part of Caesar's army. The story also shows us important Roman leaders like Caesar himself, played by Ciarán Hinds, and his family members.

The Missing Eagle Standard

The "eagle" in the episode's title refers to the Aquila. This was a very important symbol for Roman legions. Each legion had its own eagle standard, which was like their flag. Losing an eagle was a huge dishonor and a terrible sign for the army. In the episode, Caesar's eagle goes missing, and it's a big problem that needs to be solved quickly.

Why the Eagle Was So Important

The Aquila was more than just a symbol; it was believed to hold the spirit and honor of the entire legion. Soldiers would fight to the death to protect it. If an eagle was lost in battle, it was a massive defeat, and the legion would often be disbanded. Finding the stolen eagle is a crucial mission for Caesar's army in this episode.

The Story of the Episode

In "The Stolen Eagle," Caesar is finishing his war in Gaul. He is preparing to return to Rome, but there are many political problems waiting for him there. His enemies in the Roman Senate are trying to stop him from gaining too much power.

Caesar's Political Challenges

Caesar is a very popular general, and he has a lot of support from the common people and his soldiers. However, some powerful senators in Rome, like Pompey, are worried about his growing influence. They fear that Caesar might try to take over the Republic and become a dictator. This tension is a big part of the episode's background.

The Mission to Find the Eagle

Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo are given the difficult task of finding the stolen eagle. Their journey takes them through dangerous situations and helps us understand the harsh realities of military life in ancient Rome. Their adventures show how different their personalities are, but also how they learn to work together.

What Happens Next

The episode sets the stage for the entire series. It introduces the main characters, the political conflicts, and the historical period. It shows how the lives of ordinary soldiers are connected to the big events happening with powerful leaders like Caesar. The search for the eagle is just the beginning of many adventures and challenges for Vorenus and Pullo.

Who Are the Actors?

The show features a talented cast who bring the characters of ancient Rome to life.

• Ciarán Hinds plays Julius Caesar. He shows Caesar as a smart and powerful leader who is also dealing with many personal and political challenges.
• Kevin McKidd plays Lucius Vorenus. He portrays Vorenus as a loyal but often troubled Roman officer.
• Ray Stevenson plays Titus Pullo. He brings a lot of energy to the role of the adventurous and sometimes reckless soldier.
• Polly Walker plays Atia of the Julii. She is a strong and clever woman from a powerful Roman family, connected to Caesar.

Images for kids

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  Ciarán Hinds played Julius Caesar in the series.

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  A Roman Aquila, the "eagle" from the episode's title.