I was struck by the same impression - one of those details about ancient life that is logical but one just doesn't get in the books. Rome's done that to me several times already!

So far, I'm caught three ways, especially after Episode IV - the first episode where Caesar the Man starts coming through. But I'm also just fascinated both with Antony and with Octavian - the actor playing Antony I'd never seen before, but I think so far he's been just magnificent and very thought-provoking. One often sees Antony portrayed as a big lug who drinks too much, and this portrayal is SO much more nuanced! Also, although Octavian is still young, watching his development - his political education, if you will - is increasingly fascinating.