In Chapter IX of I, Claudius, the reader is introduced to two historians of the day, Pollio and Livy. They proceed to argue over their respective views of historical writing. Livy maintains one can spruce history up by providing its figures with “poetical feelings” and “oratorical ability.” Pollio asserts that “Poetry is Poetry . . . and History is History, and you can’t mix them.” Explain in fuller detail the basic arguments that each historian is presenting here. Which side do you think Graves would side with? Which side do you agree with, and why?

Caligula is presented by Graves as a perverted, capricious, and certifiably mad emperor. However, not all historians agree with this account. Research Caligula’s life and explain how your findings either support or reject Graves’s portrayal.

Research the meaning of the term “femme fatale.” Are there any “femme fatales” in I, Claudius? If so, who are they and what function do they play in Claudius’s narration?

Sibyls play a major role in Roman society during Claudius’s lifetime. Research the history of sibyls in Ancient Rome. What literary function do they serve in I, Claudius? Similarly, astrologers are also important in the story. How do astrologers and sibyls differ? How are they similar?

In Chapter 17 of I, Claudius, Claudius goes on record as saying that he and “never at any time of [his] life practices homosexuality” and goes on to explain his position. Although sexuality plays a major role in the book, this is one of the few occasions where homosexuality is mentioned. Whey does Claudius feel compelled to make this assertion? Research the life of Robert Graves and describe his views on homosexuality. How do they fit with these remarks by Claudius?