King Claudius was once a ruler of Varrock, the capital city of the kingdom of Misthalin. Although the time of his rule is unknown, it is believed he lived some time in the Fourth Age. He does not appear in-game, but is mentioned in issue 4 of Postbag from the Hedge.
According to Duke Horacio of Lumbridge, King Claudius granted his (Duke Horacio's) ancestor Polonius the title of duke in exchange for his service as a vassal in the service of Misthalin. Polonius would later go on to establish Lumbridge Castle in the place of a wooden fort that had previously served as a lone defensive structure. His position of duke was later passed on through the generations.
The date of King Claudius's rule is a subject of debate. It is possible that he lived around the Year 1937 of the Fourth Age, since this is, according to the Varrock Museum, the date when Lumbridge was established. However, this depends on whether or not the construction of Lumbridge Castle marked the beginning of Lumbridge.
As of yet, no other information has been released regarding Claudius. It is possible, although unconfirmed, that the male statue outside Lumbridge Castle is a depiction of King Claudius.
Trivia
- Claudius and the duke's ancestor, Polonius are names from the Shakespeare play, Hamlet.
| Preceded by | Title | Succeeded by |
| Unknown (Eventually the youngest of The Five Princes of Misthalin) | Ruler of Misthalin | Unknown (eventually King Botolph) |