Brutus- Brutus’s inflexible sense of honour makes it easy for Cassius to than that Caesar were dead, to live
than that Caesar were dead, to live all freemen?” This is a man who killed Ethical reasons → based on positive traits / moral values”
manipulate him into believing that Caesar must die in order to preserve
the republic. Brutus truly believes that Caesar’s death will benefit Rome.
HONORABLE: As I love the name of honour more than I fear death & It
must be by his death; and for my part” “If it be aught toward the general
good, Set honor in one eye and death i’ th’ other
NAÏVE: Our course will seem too bloody, Cassius, to cut the head off and
then hack the limbs & Speak, strike, redress.’ Am I entreated To Speak,
and strike?
PATRIOTIC: I know no personal cause to spurn at him, but for the general.
Idealistic: In his funeral speech for Caesar, Brutus says, "I have the same
dagger for myself, when it shall please my country to need my death." This
reveals his belief
in sacrificing for
the greater good
of Rome.
Caring: He hath
the falling
sickness & Kneel
not, gentle Portia
Cassius - off as self-righteous to a fault. (Ethics can also be seen in Brutus in Loyal to Caesar; Takes revenge; Does what Caesar’s want; Manipulates
Manipulative,
cunning, shrewd,
jealous. Cassius dislikes the fact that Caesar has become godlike in the
eyes of the Romans. He manipulated Brutus to believe that Caesar has
become too powerful and must die for the good of Rome. He carries on
forming the conspiracy and soon carries out the assassination of Caesar. A
shrewd opportunist, he proves successful but lacks integrity.
MANIPULATIVE: Be you content. Good Cinna, take this paper, and look
you lay it in the praetor’s chair. & Set this up with wax upon old Brutus’
statue
Julius Caesar - He is a great Roman general and senator. His good friend
Brutus worries that Caesar may aspire to dictate the Roman republic; but
he is selfless and cares about the people’s needs. However, his arrogance
eventually leads to his death.
ARROGANT: But I fear him not, Yet if my name were liable to fear &
Danger knows full well that Caesar is more dangerous than he
AMBITIOUS: Casca - “he put it by thrice, every time gentler than other;
and at every putting-by mine honest neighbours shouted” & When Decius
says “the senate have concluded To give this day a crown to mighty
Caesar“ Caesar replied: “How foolish your fears seem now, Calphurnia! I
am ashamed I did yield to them. Give me my robe for I will go.”
AUTHORITATIVE: Set him before me; let me see his face & What say’st
thou to me now? Speak once again
Antony – Good orator, loyal to Caesar, turns the crowd against the
conspirators.
MANIPULATIVE: Say I feared Caesar, honoured him, and loved him &
Live a thousand years, I shall not find myself so apt to die
RUTHLESS: He shall not live; look, with a spot I damn him & Do not talk
of him but as a property
PERSUASIVE: For Brutus is an honourable man & When the poor have
cried, Caesar hath wept, Ambition should be made of sterner stuff
Calpurnia - Caesar's superstitious wife who warns him against going to
the Senate.
LOVING: Alas, my lord, your wisdom is consumed in confidence & O
Caesar, these things are beyond all use, and i do fear them
PERSUASIVE: Let me upon my knee prevail this & Call it my fear
SUPERSTITIOUS: Caesar, I never stood on ceremonies, yet now they
fright me & A lioness hath whelped in the streets and graves have yawned,
and yielded up their dead
Portia - Brutus's wife, concerned about his involvement in the conspiracy.
PERSUASIVE: Is Brutus sick, and is it physical to walk unbraced and suck
up the humours of the dank morning? & And that great vow which did
incorporate and make us one
LOVING: I should not know you Brutus. Dear my lord, Make me
acquainted with your cause of grief. & You have some sick offence within
your mind Which, by the right and virtue of my place, I ought to know of.
SHARP: Y'have ungently, Brutus, stole from my bed; and yesternight at
supper you suddenly arose, and walked about, musing and sighing with
your arms across
Plebeians - Fickle-minded and easily swayed by persuasive speeches
throughout the play.- Cassius: “Three parts of him is ours already, and the
man entire upon the next encounter yields him ours.” Cassius says this
with a sense of manipulation, and cunningly acts against Brutus as he
manipulates Brutus to join the conspiracy for the good of Rome. The word
“the man” denotes that Cassius is less personal towards Brutus now and is
merely using Brutus to boost the power of the conspiracy and not a true
friend he sincerely loves. This shrewd manner of using Brutus shows that
he is a hypocrite, using people to their advantage by acting close with
them. /Cassius: "Why man, he doth bestride the narrow world like a
Colossus, and we petty men walk under his huge legs, and peep about to
find ourselves dishonourable graves" The simile comparing Caesar to a
“Colossus”, implies that Caesar is a man of significant size, power, capable
of causing great destruction to Rome. The dictions like “bestride” and the
visual imagery of the other Romans “walking under” Caesar’s “huge legs”
emphasises Caesar’s desire to be greater than all the other Roman
nobles. / “Brutus and Caesar - what should be in that “Caesar”? Why
should that name be sounded more than yours?”- Cassius flatters Brutus,
making him feel injustice as he receives less respect. This question is a
rhetorical device used to emphasize the significance and weight of
Caesar's name. Cassius implies that there is something inherent in the
name "Caesar" that holds immense importance and influence. He suggests
that it carries a certain aura or authority. Cassius is essentially asking
Brutus why he should settle for being overshadowed by Caesar,
insinuating that he deserves more recognition and respect./ In Act 1,
Scene 2, Cassius says to Brutus: "Men at some time are masters of their
fates: The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves, that
we are underlings." Cassius uses flattery and appeals to Brutus's ego by
suggesting that they have the power to shape their own destinies. By
doing so, he subtly encourages Brutus to believe that joining the
conspiracy is the right course of action, playing on his sense of honor and
duty to Rome. It demonstrates how Cassius is skilled at manipulating
Brutus by using his philosophical and persuasive abilities to advance his
own agenda. / In Act 1, Scene 2, Cassius says to Brutus: "Well, Brutus,
thou art noble; yet I see thy honorable mettle may be wrought from that
it is disposed." Cassius compliments Brutus's nobility but subtly suggests
that Brutus's honorable nature might be swayed or manipulated. By doing
so, Cassius is attempting to plant seeds of doubt in Brutus's mind about
the current state of affairs in Rome and the intentions of Caesar. It
underscores how Cassius is willing to flatter and use psychological
manipulation to draw Brutus into the conspiracy, further emphasizing his
cunning and self-serving nature.
THEMES
Power - Brutus: “Crown him that, and then I grant we put a sting in him
that at his will he may do danger with.” Brutus describes the action of
crowning Caesar as giving him a weapon, like a ‘sting’, which is the weapon
of power and authority. The diction “Sting” has a negative connotation. It
connotes the ability to inflict pain in others and the potential power and
threat Caesar may impose on others. Hence Brutus is implying that Caesar
will be corrupted by the power and can cause destruction to Rome and its
people. / Antony: “Fetch the will hither, and we shall determine how to
cut off some charge in legacies.” When given the power, Antony has
become corrupt. The money from Caesar was meant to be given to the
people according to the will. However, Antony wanted to take the people’s
money for his own causes. This could be considered illegal as he is taking
away money that does not belong to him in any way. However, Antony
abuses his power, laundering the people’s money for his own army to fight
a war that would further increase his power in Rome. / Antony: “He shall
not live. Look, with a spot I damn him.” Lepidus tells Antony that he has
to condemn his own nephew as well. This would be cold-blooded as this is
telling Antony to kill his own relative. However, Antony condemned him
without hesitation. He says “Look” casually, showing no regrets or
hesitation as he sentenced his own nephew to death. With power, Antony
has grown cold. He does not care about others, not even his own nephew
when he “damn[ed]” him and neglected his life./ In Act 1, Scene 2,
Cassius speaks to Brutus about Caesar's ambitions. He says, "Why, man,
he doth bestride the narrow world like a Colossus, and we petty men
walk under his huge legs and peep about to find ourselves dishonorable
graves." This quote highlights the idea that Caesar's growing power and
authority are seen as oppressive and overwhelming to others. The
comparison of Caesar to a "Colossus" suggests that his dominance and
influence cast a shadow over those around him. This reinforces the notion
that crowning Caesar, or giving him more power, could indeed be
dangerous, as he might become even more tyrannical and pose a threat to
the well-being of Rome and its people.
Leadership - Caesar: “Brutus shall lead, and we will grace in his heels”.
Brutus shows his qualities of a leader as he is influential and well
respected. Despite being the last member to join the conspiracy, Brutus is
held in high regard as an important leader of the conspiracy. Brutus was
the one who was able to calm the plebeians down due to the plebeians'
trust and respect for him. Thus, when Caesar is killed, plebeians will be
appeased knowing that Brutus is involved as Brutus is known to be
honourable and will always do the right thing. Hence, it can be seen that
Brutus has power over plebeians, as he is able to influence their thoughts
and actions and make them think that the conspiracy is necessary and
justified and will not oppose the conspirators because of Caesar’s death/
“When Caesar says, “Do this,” it is performed”. Caesar is well respected
and influential. Out of respect to Caesar, Antony will do anything Caesar
says, which shows Caesar is held in high regard by Antony. He is also able
to make others do what he wants by simply giving instructions to them,
and these instructions would be executed without questioning as it is from
Caesar, showing how influential Caesar was. This sentence also implies
that The sentence also implies that Caesar's influence extends beyond just
Antony. It suggests that others in Caesar's sphere are similarly responsive
to his directives. This ability to make things happen merely by giving
instructions showcases Caesar's capacity to sway people and events to his
advantage. /“But I am as constant as the Northern Star”. Caesar shows
that his leadership is based around constancy, such that his decisions are
always final. This leads to an authoritarian style of leadership, as such an
attitude means that his orders will be followed. Caesar's comparison to
the Northern Star suggests that he believes his decisions are not to be
doubted. He sees himself as the ultimate authority and decision-maker,
and this confidence in his judgments may be seen as arrogance by some,
but as a sign of his resolute leadership by others. /Brutus says, "It must be
by his death. And for my part, I know no personal cause to spurn at him,
but for the general. He would be crowned. How that might change his
nature, there's the question." In this statement, Brutus demonstrates his
leadership qualities once again. He articulates a compelling argument for
Caesar's assassination not based on personal animosity but on his concern
for the greater good of Rome. This selfless dedication to the welfare of the
Roman Republic highlights Brutus's moral integrity and leadership ability.
His words resonate with the other conspirators, reinforcing their trust in
him as a principled leader. This passage underscores how Brutus, as a
leader, is able to sway the conspirators by framing their actions as
necessary for the preservation of the Roman Republic, emphasizing the
power of his words and moral authority within the group.
Friendship (Betrayal and Revenge) - Caesar: “Et tu, Brute?” The use of
“Et tu” denotes Caesar’s shock and dejection that even Brutus, someone
whom he loved dearly, was amongst the conspirators. To Caesar, Brutus
was a blessing. He always thought that Brutus was a close and loyal friend.
Hence, when the other conspirators stabbed Caesar, he still had the
willpower to fight for his life; whereas when Brutus did so, he felt so
betrayed that he lost his motivation to live since even his closest friend
was part of the conspiracy to betray him. This shows their profound love
for each other since Caesar regarded Brutus as a good friend, as compared
to the other conspirators, where he was not that affected emotionally by
their attack. /Brutus: “I would not, Cassius. Yet I love him well.” Brutus,
as Caesar’s good friend, feels conflicted as he feels that Caesar’s ambitions
are going against the good of Rome, and therefore feels the need to betray
Caesar for the good of Rome. Brutus: "Since Cassius first did whet me
against Caesar, I have not slept," further highlights the inner turmoil that
plagues Brutus. He admits that he hasn't slept since Cassius began to
persuade him to join the conspiracy. This lack of sleep symbolizes the
restlessness of his conscience and the mental anguish he is experiencing
as he grapples with the decision to betray his friend. /Antony: “O mighty
Caesar! Dost, thou lie so low. Are all thy conquests, glories, triumphs,
spoils, shrunk to this little measure?” After Caesar has been killed,
Antony also apologised to Caesar’s corpse for being “meek and gentle
with these butchers”. Antony also reflects on Caesar's accomplishments,
which include conquests, glories, triumphs, and spoils. He laments that all
these grand achievements have now been reduced to "this little measure,"
which is Caesar's dead body. This contrast between Caesar's past glory
and his current lifeless state intensifies the emotional impact of the
speech./Brutus says, "Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome
more."This quote illustrates the internal conflict Brutus faces as he
wrestles with his loyalty to Caesar, his dear friend, and his loyalty to Rome,
which he believes is at risk under Caesar's rule. Brutus's declaration of love
for Rome over his love for Caesar underscores the theme of friendship and
loyalty. It exemplifies the complexity of their friendship and how it was
tested by political and moral considerations.Brutus' words reveal the tragic
dimension of friendship, as he justifies his betrayal of Caesar for what he
perceives as the greater good of Rome. The theme of friendship is not only
about the bonds between individuals but also the sacrifices and difficult
choices one may have to make in the name of a greater cause. This quote
contributes to the overall exploration of the theme of friendship and its
complexities in "Julius Caesar."
Honour - Cassius: “Thy honourable mettle may be wrought from that it
is disposed.” This pun on the word ‘mettle’ implies that Brutus’ noble and
honourable character is easily taken advantage of and exploited, just like
how metal is easily bent, twisted and distorted from its original form.
Hence, Cassius implies that he is manipulating Brutus’ honourable
character and using Brutus to get rid of Caesar, which is ultimately his own
agenda as Cassius is resentful of Caesar’s prodigious power. This is a
soliloquy, hence showing Cassius’ true intentions and feelings. This
interaction also highlights the tension between personal ambitions and
one's sense of honor and duty. Cassius is driven by personal grievances
against Caesar, while Brutus grapples with the conflict between his loyalty
to Rome and his loyalty to his friend. (Shakespeare presents honourable
Manipulates others (plebeians, Lepidus, conspirators)
To achieve his goals people as people that are easily exploited and
influenced for one’s personal agenda)/ Brutus: “If it be aught toward the
general good, set honour in one eye and death i' the other, and I will look
on both indifferently… I love the name of honour more than I fear death.”
“If it aught toward the general good”, Brutus is willing to act honourably to
help others even if it meant that he would die for doing so as seen in
“Death i’ the other”. “Name of honour more than I fear death” and the
comparative “” further emphasises on how much Brutus is willing to die
for honour, rather than to live a dishonourable life.
Ambition - Brutus: “That lowliness is young ambition's ladder, whereto
the climber-upward turn his face, but when he once attains the upmost
round, he then unto the ladder turns his back, looks in the cloud,
scorning the base degrees from which he did ascend.” The diction
“lowliness” shows the humble facade that people put on and the
personification “young ambition” symbolises people who are not powerful
or significant as seen in “young” but yet ambitious. The metaphor “ladder”
shows that people with ambitions will put on a facade of being humble and
unambitious, to climb higher in power and hierarchy. ‘Upmost round’
refers to the highest position and authority, showing that once Caesar has
used and taken advantage of the Romans to gain enough power, he ‘turns
his back’ on them and looks down on them as seen in ‘scorning the base
degrees’ Hence, showing that Caesar was ambitious but acted humble to
exploit the Romans in order to gain power.( Ambitious people act humble
and unambitious to gain power)/ "To every Roman citizen he gives - to
every several man - seventy-five drachmas."- Caesar did not seem
ambitious, but perhaps it could have been just a humble face that he was
wearing./ “But, as he was ambitious, I slew him” - Brutus killed Caesar
due to his dangerous ambitions.
Ethics - hand / for their benefit. (Change the views of others, from black become Brutus was right about Caesar being ambitious and in turn question his
From the beginning of the play, Brutus acts slowly and thoughtfully, and
truly tries to do what he believes is ethical. When Cassius first approaches
him in Act I, scene 2 about the idea of overthrowing Caesar, Brutus is not
immediately convinced. The fact that he contemplates this instead of
acting right away shows that, whether his ultimate decision is or is not
ethical, he still can decide what is ethical based on the facts and what he
thinks is the right thing to do. In the end, Brutus decides to kill Caesar
because he thinks it is the best for Rome. In his funeral speech to the
crowd in Act II, scene 2, he says, “Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I
loved Rome more. Had you rather Caesar were living, and die all slaves,
his best friend because he thought letting him live would lead to the Brutus (ethical): MOB MENTALITY
enslavement of Rome. Brutus truly believes that what he did was in the Joining the conspiracy to assassinate Caesar William Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar" is a timeless tragedy that explores
best interest of Rome. Again, whether or not killing someone for the best Loyalty to Rome → afraid that Caesar will become a tyrant and the people the complex dynamics of politics, power, and human nature. Within this
of a society is ethical is debatable, but it still shows that he has the ability will suffer; To preserve Rome’s republican values; Refuses to kill Antony compelling drama, several central themes emerge, prominently among
to decide and can put his own selfish interests aside to do something that Idealistic → innocent and not responsible for Caesar’s actions; Believes them being the destructive forces of mob mentality, manipulation, and the
he believes is in the interest of the greater good. This implies Ethics can be that the act of assassination is a noble cause; Speaking at Caesar’s funeral. resulting chaos. Through key scenes and characters, Shakespeare
seen in Brutus when he contemplates to kill Caesar and his reasons for Sense of honour → to justify the killings of C (actions are honourable) masterfully illustrates how these themes interplay to drive the tragic
killing him. / “Let me tell you, Cassius, you yourself are much Show how the assassination is not due to selfish reasons but for the narrative.
condemned to have an itching palm, to sell and mart your offices for people of Rome (a necessity); Suicide; Accountable for his action; Maintain One of the most striking demonstrations of these themes occurs in Act 3,
gold to undeservers.” Here, Brutus reprimands Cassius for allowing his a sense of dignity and pride Scene 2, as the citizens of Rome rapidly shift their loyalty from Brutus to
troops to take bribes from the Sardians, where they are presently camped. Cassius: Antony based solely on their respective speeches. Citizen #1's fervent cry
Brutus has condemned a man named Lucius Pella because he has broken Manipulates Brutus and persuades him to join the conspiracy; Takes of "Brutus, Brutus, live, live!" is soon quelled by Citizen #2's call for peace
the law. Cassius has appealed to Brutus to forgive the man, because he advantage of B’s sense of honour and patriotism; Planted the letters to to listen to Antony. The transition is complete when Citizen #3 proclaims
knows him personally and because he is a valuable asset to their cause. influence B; Plots the assassination; Motivation is jealousy → selfish the conspirators as "traitors" and "honorable men" in Antony's favor. This
However, Brutus will not hear of it. No matter how valuable Lucius Pella reasons; Suggests the killing of Antony; To remove a threat to his power shift in allegiance showcases the fickleness of mob mentality, revealing
may be, he broke the law, and therefore must be punished. Once again, Care for Brutus; Reactions to Portia’s death → empathises and supports how easily public opinion can be swayed by persuasive rhetoric.
Brutus shows he is pedantically committed to the rule of law, even if it Brutus Antony's manipulative speech in the same scene serves as a prime
costs him valuable strength. Although Brutus here wants to be lawfully example of the art of persuasion and emotional manipulation. Beginning
consistent, he overlooks strategic investments and advantages and comes Antony: with the iconic words, "Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your
ears...," Antony skillfully transforms the crowd's initial grief into a seething
general)/“It is a creature that I teach to fight, to wind, to stop, to run others (plebeians, Lepidus, conspirators); To achieve his goals anger and thirst for vengeance against the conspirators. Through his
directly on, his corporal motion governed by my spirit.” - Antony talks of RLS: eloquence and appeals to emotion, Antony demonstrates the immense
Lepidus as his tool, demeaning him. Brutus & Portia: power that words and charisma can wield over a susceptible audience.
LOYALTY MODEL ESSAY Evidence: Act 2, Scene 1 - Portia, Brutus's wife, expresses concern for her The consequences of mob mentality are further emphasized in Act 3,
Loyalty is one of the most prominent themes in Julius Caesar that is husband's well-being and attempts to understand the cause of his Scene 3, with the tragic killing of Cinna the Poet. The plebeians mistakenly
apparent in almost every character, from the fiercely loyal Antony to the troubled state. identify Cinna the Poet as Cinna the conspirator, and their impulsive and
fickle-minded plebeians. However, the play seems to derogate loyalty, its Analysis: This scene illustrates the strong bond of loyalty and trust violent reaction is encapsulated in Fourth Plebeian's cry, "Tear him for his
main problem in the play is that actions to display loyalty often conflict between Brutus and Portia. Portia's unwavering support and willingness to bad verses!" This incident underscores the dangers of a crowd acting
each other, and it is painfully difficult to choose one over the other. On the share Brutus's emotional burden reflect the depth of their relationship. It without reason or evidence, showcasing how unchecked emotion can lead
other end, those who are overly loyal become delusional or maniacal. The also demonstrates the internal struggle Brutus faces as he contemplates to tragic outcomes.
crux of the play is showing how loyalties often conflict with each other joining the conspiracy against Caesar. The chaos and violence inherent in mob behavior become even more
and the struggle of having to choose. The main character that goes Evidence: Portia confronts Brutus about his recent strange behavior, pronounced as the plebeians, in Act 3, Scene 3, attack Cinna the Poet
through this struggle is Brutus. Firstly, Brutus faces a conflict as he is loyal particularly his involvement in the conspiracy against Caesar. She stabs without considering the truth. Third Plebeian's exclamation, "Tear him to
to both Rome and his friends Caesar, but has to kill one for the other. It is herself in the thigh to prove her strength and loyalty to him. pieces! He’s a conspirator!" illustrates the irrational nature of their actions,
evident that Brutus loved Caesar, Antony calling him “Caesar’s Analysis: The relationship between Brutus and Portia is marked by loyalty painting a bleak picture of the consequences when reason and critical
angle”.“[A]ngle” suggests that Brutus is like a symbol of goodness, and mutual concern. Portia's deep loyalty to her husband is evident as she thinking are abandoned in favor of emotional fervor.
kindness and care to Caesar as angels are often sent by gods to assist tries to share in his worries and prove her trustworthiness. Brutus, in turn, Brutus, a central character in the play, embodies the theme of idealistic
humans. This meant that Brutus must have been very caring and is concerned for Portia's well-being, knowing that his actions put her misjudgment. In his attempt to reason with the mob in Act 3, Scene 2, he
dedicated to Caesar. On the other hand, Brutus “would rather be a villager” under immense stress. Their relationship is a testament to the challenges addresses them with the noble plea, "Romans, countrymen, and lovers!
than be a “son of Rome”, the possible harsh times of dictatorship. A faced by those involved in political conspiracies and the personal sacrifices Hear me for my cause, and be silent that you may hear." This reflects his
“villager” is an ordinary, poor and rather demeaning word to describe a made in the name of loyalty. idealistic belief in the rationality of the crowd, a belief that is ultimately
person who is not well to do. The fact that Brutus would rather live such a Caesar & Antony: shattered as they are easily swayed by Antony's emotional and
life than be under dictatorship shows how much he loves the freedom of Evidence: Throughout the play, Antony is shown as a loyal and devoted manipulative rhetoric. Brutus's misjudgment highlights the tragic flaw of
Rome. When having to choose between these two, he describes it as a follower of Caesar, especially after Caesar's assassination. Antony's speech idealism in the face of political reality.
“phantasma, or a hideous dream” implying that it must be traumatising to at Caesar's funeral, "Friends, Romans, countrymen," is a pivotal moment Lastly, the descent into civil war and anarchy is symbolized by Octavius'
him, or that it is so horrifying it is as if he has met a spectral. He also says where he mourns Caesar's death and seeks to avenge it. chilling declaration in Act 5, Scene 1: "These many then shall die, their
that the “genius and mortal instruments are in council.” “[G]enius is his Analysis: The relationship between Caesar and Antony is characterized by names are pricked." This ominous statement marks the culmination of the
mind while “mortal instruments” are his actions. “[C]ouncil” uses the loyalty and a sense of mentorship. After Caesar's assassination, Antony's chaos incited by the mob, leading to a state of anarchy and civil strife in
imagery of a violent debate or an uprising. If one’s own mind and actions loyalty is unwavering, and he becomes a central figure in the play's Rome. The once-stable society has been upended, replaced by violence,
cannot agree, how can they be at peace? The same person cannot decide political conflicts. Antony's famous speech is a turning point in the play revenge, and a stark absence of order.
and is teared apart in a rather painfully and violent way, like a riot and and demonstrates the depth of his loyalty to Caesar.
therefore must be in much suffering. Hence, conflicts between loyalties Evidence: Caesar's trust in Antony is evident when he names him as his MOB MENTALITY EVIDENCES
may arise and it is a painful struggle to choose. On the other end of the successor and gives Antony the task of offering Caesar's will to the people Brutus: "Romans, countrymen, and lovers! Hear me for my cause, and be
spectrum, being too loyal can make someone delusional or maniacal. after his assassination. silent that you may hear." (Act 3, Scene 2) Brutus’ attempt to reason with
Firstly, Portia is loyal to Brutus and even after Brutus treats her coldly, she Analysis: The relationship between Caesar and Antony is one of trust and the mob shows his idealistic belief in their rationality, which is ultimately
still stays with him, giving herself a “voluntary wound” to “proof [her] mutual respect. Caesar sees Antony as a loyal friend and a capable proven wrong as they are easily swayed by Antony's emotional speech
constancy”. “Voluntary wound” nowadays is directly self-harm. Portia statesman. This trust ultimately leads to Antony's role in turning the After Antony shows Plebians Caesar's corpse and exaggerates the murder
must be crazy to think that inflicting damage to herself is fine. She is Roman public against the conspirators after Caesar's death. of Caesar the plebians burst into chaos and shouted "Revenge! About!
definitely emotionally distraught. Moreover, she thinks it can “pro[ve] [her] Brutus & Cassius: Seek! Burn! Fire! Kill! Slay! Let not a traitor live!" Third Plebeian: "Tear him
constancy” when in reality it is very foolish to hurt yourself. Antony also Evidence: Throughout the play, Brutus and Cassius have multiple to pieces! He’s a conspirator!" (Act 3, Scene 3) This line illustrates the
suffers from this. He is fiercely loyal to Caesar and when Caesar died, he interactions and disagreements, especially regarding the conspiracy and chaotic and violent nature of the mob as they attack Cinna the Poet
cursed the conspirators, wanting “Ate” to destroy them. “Ate” is the their differing opinions on how to proceed. One key moment is in Act 4, without considering the truth.
goddess of destruction that brings fear and pain. He also stated that Scene 3, where they engage in a heated argument.
women shall “smile” when they see their infants “quartered’. “[Q]uartered” Analysis: The relationship between Brutus and Cassius is complex. While Brutuspeech:
is an extremely disturbing imagery, comparing babies to be easily chopped both are involved in the conspiracy against Caesar, they have different BRUTUS Be patient till the last. Romans, countrymen, and lovers! hear me
up like food. The fact that he wants women to “smile”, an act of joy and motivations and approaches. Brutus values honor and loyalty to Rome, for my cause, and be silent, that you may hear: believe me for mine honour,
peace, shows how much destruction he wants to do such that cutting while Cassius is more pragmatic and driven by personal gain. Their and have respect to mine honour, that you may believe: censure me in
babies is normal and peaceful to the plebeians. This much of craziness, conflicts and eventual reconciliation highlight the challenges and your wisdom, and awake your senses, that you may the better judge. If
destruction and damage Antony thinks of really shows how maniacal he is, complexities of political alliances. there be any in this assembly, any dear friend of Caesar's, to him I say, that
and due to his loyalty to Caesar. Therefore, even people who are fiercely Evidence: Throughout the play, Brutus and Cassius have a complex Brutus' love to Caesar was no less than his. If then that friend demand why
loyal can suffer, from delusion and becoming conniving due to loss. Hence, relationship marked by both loyalty and disagreement. They have several Brutus rose against Caesar, this is my answer: Not that I loved Caesar less,
however idealistic loyalty is, Julius Caesar portrays it to be painful, often heated arguments, but they ultimately maintain a deep bond based on but that I loved Rome more. Had you rather Caesar were living and die all
conflicting and causing worries. Even being loyal can cause pain, even their shared goals. slaves, than that Caesar were dead, to live all free men? As Caesar loved
more than betrayal perhaps. Analysis: Throughout the play, Brutus and Cassius have a complex me, I weep for him; as he was fortunate, I rejoice at it; as he was valiant, I
POINTS relationship marked by both loyalty and disagreement. They have several honour him: but, as he was ambitious, I slew him. There is tears for his love;
Leadership and power: heated arguments, but they ultimately maintain a deep bond based on joy for his fortune; honour for his valour; and death for his ambition. Who
A good leader is able to inspire others. (Brutus, Caesar); Leaders may be their shared goals. is here so base that would be a bondman? If any, speak; for him have I
susceptible to the abuse of power. (Cassius, Caesar, Antony); Brutus is a Brutus & Caesar: offended. Who is here so rude that would not be a Roman? If any, speak;
noble leader who ensures the well-being of the people / Rome.; A leader Evidence: In Act 2, Scene 1, Brutus reflects on his relationship with Caesar for him have I offended. Who is here so vile that will not love his country?
who has good oratorical skills will be able to influence / win over the and his internal struggle regarding Caesar's potential rise to power. He If any, speak; for him have I offended. I pause for a reply.
people. ultimately decides to join the conspiracy to assassinate Caesar. All: None, Brutus, none.
Friendship and Loyalty Analysis: Brutus's relationship with Caesar is marked by a deep sense of BRUTUS Then none have I offended. I have done no more to Caesar than
One’s sense of loyalty can influence his actions. / willing to make sacrifices. loyalty and friendship. Brutus's decision to join the conspiracy is rooted in you shall do to Brutus. The question of his death is enrolled in the Capitol;
(Antony, Portia); Cassius makes use of his friendship with Brutus to his belief that it is for the greater good of Rome, driven by his loyalty to his glory not extenuated, wherein he was worthy, nor his offences
manipulate him. (the Mirror); One may be misguided by his sense of the Republic. The conflict between his loyalty to Rome and his loyalty to enforced, for which he suffered death.
loyalty.; A true friend remains loyal even after death. Caesar is a central theme in the play and contributes to the tragic events Enter ANTONY and others, with CAESAR's body
Ethics (strong moral values / principles and shown in one’s behaviour that unfold. Here comes his body, mourned by Mark Antony: who, though he had no
and actions): Evidence: Brutus's internal conflict and his decision to join the conspiracy hand in his death, shall receive the benefit of his dying, a place in the
Brutus upholds his ideals and vision for Rome and is willing to make against Caesar stem from his loyalty to Rome, which he believes is under commonwealth; as which of you shall not? With this I depart,--that, as I
sacrifices to achieve that. (Leave Portia for war); One could be unethical in threat from Caesar's ambition. slew my best lover for the good of Rome, I have the same dagger for
order to achieve his goals. Analysis: Brutus's loyalty to Rome and his belief in the greater good are myself, when it shall please my country to need my death. All Live, Brutus!
Julius Caesar is a play about leaders and leadership. What are some of central to the play's theme. His internal struggle demonstrates the tension live, live!
the qualities or traits which the play suggests good leaders have? Your between personal loyalty to a friend and loyalty to a larger cause. His Antonyspeech
answer must be supported with examples from across the play. decision to betray Caesar for the sake of Rome is a pivotal moment in the ANTONY Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears; I come to
Characters: Antony, Brutus, Caesar, Cassius play and a testament to the complexity of loyalty and honor. bury Caesar, not to praise him. The evil that men do lives after them; The
A good leader should be persuasive / have good oratorical skills (Antony, RHETORIC MODEL Paragraph(PORTIA) good is oft interred with their bones; So let it be with Caesar. The noble
Brutus, Cassius); A good leader should be empathetic and understand Secondly, Portia uses an accusatory tone to guilt-trip Brutus into spilling Brutus Hath told you Caesar was ambitious: If it were so, it was a grievous
what others are going through / care for the people / look after people’s the beans. She says that she has been “[d]welling in the suburbs oh [his] fault, And grievously hath Caesar answer'd it. Here, under leave of Brutus
welfare. (Brutus); A good leader should have integrity / be honourable / be good pleasure”. “[S]uburbs” is a more rural place and rather isolated, or and the rest-- For Brutus is an honourable man; So are they all, all
noble. (Brutus); Rational and calm / not swayed by emotions.; A good not as important as the urbanised areas. Portia is implying that she feels honourable men-- Come I to speak in Caesar's funeral. He was my friend,
leader should be steadfast in their beliefs. deserted and unimportant to Brutus. Brutus would definitely not want his faithful and just to me: But Brutus says he was ambitious; And Brutus is an
Julius Caesar is a play of power and ambition. With reference to his wife to think that and feel guilty, hence would tell her his secret to make honourable man. He hath brought many captives home to Rome Whose
extract and other parts of the play, discuss how Shakespeare develops this up for it. Portia also says that she is “Brutus’ harlot”. A “harlot” is an ransoms did the general coffers fill: Did this in Caesar seem ambitious?
theme. extremely disgraceful job that implies Brutus only wants 4 Portia for sex When that the poor have cried, Caesar hath wept: Ambition should be
Characters: and not due to love. Brutus, wanting to be noble, would not dare to made of sterner stuff: Yet Brutus says he was ambitious; And Brutus is an
Caesar → Greedy for power (ambitious); uses his power to control the associate with such a job, or even worse, having his wife alluding to such a honourable man. You all did see that on the Lupercal I thrice presented
people / do things his way shameful job. He would then tell Potia his secrets to show that he cares him a kingly crown, Which he did thrice refuse: was this ambition? Yet
Cassius → Greedy for power; jealous of Caesar’s power; willing to do for Portia and would be willing to share private worries, to prove that Brutus says he was ambitious; And, sure, he is an honourable man. I speak
anything (kill Caesar) to gain power Portia is not merely a harlot. Finally, Portia accuses Brutus of having “stole not to disprove what Brutus spoke, But here I am to speak what I do know.
Antony → Acquires power to seek revenge from [her] bed”. “Stealing” is often associated with criminals and sneaky You all did love him once, not without cause: What cause withholds you
Brutus → fears the abuse of power action. Being noble, Brutus would again be ashamed of such an action and then, to mourn for him? O judgment! thou art fled to brutish beasts, And
The greed for power can result in dishonourable actions.; The greed for spill his secrets. Hence, Portia uses pathological rhetorics to guilt-trip men have lost their reason. Bear with me; My heart is in the coffin there
power / having excessive power can cloud judgement.; Possession of Brutus and make use of how Brutus wants to appear honourable. with Caesar, And I must pause till it come back to me.
power stirs up jealousy and envy in others.; Power is a necessary tool for RHETORIC PARAGRAPH(ANTHONY) First Citizen Methinks there is much reason in his sayings.
revenge.; People who hold power are expected to use their power for the Antony utilises pathos and rhetoric to appeal to the plebeians’ emotions Second Citizen If thou consider rightly of the matter, Caesar has had great
greater good; and persuade them to be angry towards the conspirators. Antony starts wrong.
‘Leadership is not a noble pursuit in Julius Caesar.’ How far do you agree his speech by saying “Friends and Romans and countrymen…” By starting Third Citizen Has he, masters? I fear there will a worse come in his place.
with this statement? Support your answer with close reference to the play. his speech in this way, he is showing that he is a part of the crowd while Fourth Citizen Mark'd ye his words? He would not take the crown;
Noble → honour, strong moral character speaking like a nobility. By addressing the crowd as “friends”, it will make Therefore 'tis certain he was not ambitious.
Characters (noble): the plebeians think that Antony sees them as equals. This would appeal to First Citizen If it be found so, some will dear abide it.
Brutus → patriotic; willing to die for his country; not willing to kill Antony; their pride and dignity as a noble senator is seeing them as equal. By doing Second Citizen Poor soul! his eyes are red as fire with weeping.
treats the assassination of Caesar (necessary sacrifice vs bloody murder) so, the plebeians would be more willing to listen to Antony. Antony also Third Citizen There's not a nobler man in Rome than Antony.
Caesar → his will; conquer / serves in ROme’s interest (conquest / says “Caesar was my friend, faithful and just to me”. By painting Caesar in Fourth Citizen Now mark him, he begins again to speak.
ransom) a positive light, it would appeal to the plebeian’s sense of sympathy, which ANTONY But yesterday the word of Caesar might Have stood against the
Antony → loyalty to Caesar (seeks revenge after C’s death) will make the audience feel sympathy for Antony due to the loss of one's world; now lies he there. And none so poor to do him reverence. O masters,
Characters (not noble): best friend. Antony continues to say that “he hath brought many captives if I were disposed to stir Your hearts and minds to mutiny and rage, I
Cassius → manipulative; jealous; self-serving home to Rome” and “when that the poor have cried, Caesar hath wept”. By should do Brutus wrong, and Cassius wrong, Who, you all know, are
Caesar → ambitious; greed for power; vanity highlighting Caesar’s great achievements and saying that Caesar is a man honourable men: I will not do them wrong; I rather choose To wrong the
Antony → Takes advantage of people and the situation of sympathy, Antony is making the plebeians think that Caesar is not as dead, to wrong myself and you, Than I will wrong such honourable men.
Agree → leaders are not noble ambitious as Brutus portrayed him, but in fact loving and empathetic. In But here's a parchment with the seal of Caesar; I found it in his closet, 'tis
The leaders in JC take advantage of / exploit the situation and people in addition to this, Antony repeatedly says things such as "Brutus says he his will: Let but the commons hear this testament-- Which, pardon me, I
order to achieve their goals. (Use of situation / opportunity) was ambitions" and "Brutus is an honourable man”. This would make do not mean to read-- And they would go and kiss dead Caesar's wounds
The leaders in JC are quick to manipulate their followers to gain an upper Brutus appear less credible as the plebeians would start to question if And dip their napkins in his sacred blood, Yea, beg a hair of him for
memory, And, dying, mention it within their wills, Bequeathing it as a rich
white); The leaders are ruthless and will do what it takes to gain power. honourability. By first evoking empathy for Caesar, Antony cleverly legacy Unto their issue.
Disagree → leaders are noble manipulated the emotions into hatred for Brutus, thus making Brutus Fourth Citizen We'll hear the will: read it, Mark Antony.
Brutus’ involvement in the assassination is for the good of Rome (place seem unhonourable, so as to turn the crowd against him. Antony ends by All The will, the will! We will hear Caesar's will.
country above friendship) reminding the love the plebeians have for Caesar. He says “You all did love ANTONY Have patience, gentle friends, I must not read it; It is not meet
Caesar contributes to Rome by strategically conquering other lands and him once, not without cause;”. This sentence is appealing to the plebeians’ you know how Caesar loved you. You are not wood, you are not stones,
building up the wealth of Rome. guilt, as they were reminded of how much they loved Caesar once. Thus, but men; And, being men, bearing the will of Caesar, It will inflame you, it
“In ‘Julius Caesar’, ethical dilemmas and moral choices play a significant they will feel guilty for immediately turning to Brutus, who has killed the will make you mad: 'Tis good you know not that you are his heirs; For, if
role in the development of the characters and the plot. Analyse the ethical once beloved Caesar. Therefore, through the use of pathos, Antony you should, O, what would come of it!
decisions made by key characters such as Brutus, Cassius, and Antony, and swayed the plebeians into thinking that Brutus was not a honourable man
explore how these decisions reflect their personal values and beliefs. and therefore be against the conspirators.