I, Claudius Lesson Plan

Does Claudius survive to become emperor through Fate or through his own actions?

In the very beginning of the novel, Claudius presents us with Sybil's prophecy about the fate of himself and Rome. We are then told of the omen concerning him catching a wolf cub dropped by an Eagle as a young boy. It is clear that he believes his rise to Emperor as one solely due to fate. Claudius refers to the belief system during his time period as further explanation as why he could never have become Emperor through his own actions.

However, Claudius deliberately uses his lameness and disabilities to his favor. He exaggerates his stammer and limp, intentionally leading others to believe...