Livia quotes from I, Claudius

Why do you allow Caligula such familiarity?

Livia

Because it pleases him. And because he will be the next emperor of Rome. You don't believe me?

If you say so, grandmother. You know I don't concern myself with higher politics. Still, what about Castor? And Caligula has two older brothers.

Livia

Castor is ill and Thrasyllus says he won't recover. He also says Tiberius will choose Caligula to succeed him.

Why?

Livia

Vanity. Tiberius wants to be loved, at least after his death if not before. And the best way to ensure that-

Is to have someone worse to follow him, naturally. He's certainly no fool.

Livia

He's the biggest fool in my family. I had always thought that that was you... but I think now I was wrong.

Caligula

I hear you're dying, great-grandmother.

Livia

You won't forget your promise, will you?

Caligula

To make you a goddess? And what makes you think that a filthy, smelly old woman like you could become a goddess? I don't need you anymore, you see, great-grandmother. My secret will die with you. You're going to stew in hell forever and ever. Let me tell you something: Thrasyllus has made another prophecy. He told Tiberius. He said, "One who is going to die soon will become the greatest god the world has ever known. No temples will be dedicated to anyone but him in the whole Roman world, not even to Augustus." Do you know who that one is? Me. Me. I shall become the greatest god of all. And I shall look down on you suffering all the torments of hell and I shall say, "Leave her there. Leave her there forever and ever and ever." [kisses her on the lips] Goodbye, great-grandmother.