The Emperor's Club

Professor William Hundert, a dedicated Classics history teacher, begins yet another academic year at St. Benedict's Academy for Boys. As part of introducing themselves, students share their names and aspirations, setting the tone for a year of growth and learning in the classroom.

Hundert reflects on the inscription above his classroom door, which recounts the remarkable legacy of Shutruk Nahunte. He emphasizes the importance of ambition paired with meaningful contribution, challenging his students with poignant questions about their own legacies.

Professor Hundert establishes a budding friendship with his colleague, Elizabeth. She presents him with a snow globe of the Parthenon upon her return from Greece, symbolizing their shared passion for history and culture.

A new student named Sedgewick Bell joins the class, quickly revealing his arrogant disposition. His behavior creates tension in the classroom as Hundert struggles to connect with him and guide his moral growth amidst his privileged background.

After observing Sedgewick's troubling conduct, Hundert seeks the counsel of Senator Bell, Sedgewick's father. However, the senator's nonchalance about his son’s character development leaves Hundert feeling frustrated and helpless in his role as an educator.

Back at St. Benedict's, Hundert prepares for the prestigious 'Mr. Julius Caesar' contest, evaluating student essays to determine finalists. Among the top scorers are Deepak Mehta, Louis Masoudi, and an unexpectedly dedicated Sedgewick Bell, leading Hundert to alter his assessment rules.

On the day of the 'Mr. Julius Caesar' contest, tensions run high as Masoudi struggles under pressure, leaving Bell and Mehta to contend for the title. Hundert grows suspicious of Bell's behavior, sensing that he may be cheating to gain an unfair advantage.

Hundert's suspicions are confirmed during the contest as he witnesses what appears to be cheating. Consulting with the headmaster, Hundert struggles with the ethical implications of overlooking the misconduct, but ultimately decides to confront the issue and protect the integrity of the contest.

Using his knowledge of Hamilcar Barca, a topic outside the textbook, Hundert successfully thwarts Bell's attempts at deception. Through clever questioning, Mehta emerges as the deserving winner, while Hundert grapples with the ruins of his trust in Bell.

A quarter of a century later, Hundert finds himself married to Elizabeth and facing professional disappointment when he realizes he will not be appointed headmaster. He receives an unexpected invitation from the wealthy Sedgewick Bell for a rematch of the 'Mr. Julius Caesar' contest.

Hundert visits Bell's lavish estate for the rematch of the 'Mr. Julius Caesar' contest. Bell expresses gratitude for what he learned from Hundert and presents the opportunity of funding for the school, but Hundert remains cautious and maintains his role as an educator.

As the rematch contest proceeds, Hundert notices a suspicious earpiece in Bell's ear, suggesting he may be cheating once more. Determined to test Bell's knowledge, Hundert queries about Shutruk Nahunte, which exposes Bell's unpreparedness and allows Mehta to win again.

After the rematch, Hundert confronts Bell about his cheating and moral ambiguity. The conversation reveals Bell's true character when he dismissively states that in his world, people do what they must to get what they want, shocking his son who is present during the exchange.

The next day, Hundert prepares to leave and finds a heartfelt note from his students wishing him well. However, they surprise him with a farewell party, leading to a reflective moment where he discusses his past decisions regarding Sedgewick's advantage in the previous contest.

Determined to start anew, Hundert returns to St. Benedict's after the school becomes co-ed. He feels joy witnessing a new generation of students, including the son of Martin Blythe, as he encourages the boy to read the same plaque that guided him years before.