The play Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare has been written in English which is primarily latin influenced. For the better understanding of students I have simplified the play. This will help them understand it better.
Some Important Characters:
Julius Caesar - The greatest and
most powerful Roman leader. Assassinated by Brutus, Cassius, and a group of
conspirators who believe he is too ambitious and wants to be king.
Calpurnia - Caesar's wife.
Mark Antony - Caesar's most loyal
friend.
Marcus Brutus - Caesar's close
friend who joins the conspiracy because of his love for Rome and democracy.
Cassius - The one who inspires
and organizes the conspiracy.
Decius Brutus - A co-conspirator
in Caesar's assassination.
PLAY SIMPLIFIED
Act II Scene II
Caesar's house.
Thunder and lightning. CAESAR
enters in his night-gown.
CAESAR: Tonight, heaven and earth
have been restless.
Calpurnia has cried out in her
sleep three times,
'Help, ho! They are murdering
Caesar!' Who's there?
A servant enters.
SERVANT: My lord?
CAESAR: Tell the priest to
perform a sacrifice and bring me their predictions of success.
SERVANT: I will, my lord.
Calpurnia enters.
CALPURNIA: What are you thinking,
Caesar? Do you intend to go out? You must not leave your house today.
CAESAR: I shall go out. The
threats were aimed at my back,
And when they see Caesar's face,
they will disappear.
CALPURNIA: Caesar, I have never
been superstitious,
But now I am frightened. There is
someone inside,
Apart from the things we have
heard and seen,
Telling of horrible sights
witnessed by the watchmen.
A lioness has given birth in the
streets,
And graves have opened, yielding
up their dead.
Fierce fiery warriors fought in
the clouds,
In formations and ranks as in a
real war,
And blood rained upon the
Capitol.
The noise of battle resounded in
the air,
Horses neighed, and dying men
groaned,
While ghosts shrieked and
squealed in the streets.
Oh, Caesar! These things are
beyond all reason,
And I am afraid of them.
CAESAR: What can be avoided when
the mighty gods have already planned its end? Still, Caesar will go forth, for
these predictions apply to everyone, not just Caesar.
CALPURNIA: When beggars die,
there are no comets seen; only the heavens blaze forth to mark the death of
princes.
CAESAR: Cowards die many times
before their deaths; brave men experience death only once. Among all the
wonders I have heard, it seems most strange to fear death when it is an
inevitable end that will come when it comes.
[The servant returns.]
SERVANT: The augurers advise
against you going out today. When they examined the entrails of an offering,
they could not find a heart within the beast.
CAESAR: The gods do this to shame
cowardice. If Caesar were to stay at home today out of fear, he would be no
better than a heartless beast. No, Caesar will not stay back. Danger knows very
well that Caesar is more dangerous than it is. We are two lions born on the
same day, and I am the older and more fearsome one. Thus, Caesar shall go
forth.
CALPURNIA: Alas, my lord, your
wisdom is consumed by overconfidence. Please, do not go out today. Consider it
my fear that keeps you in the house, not your own. We'll send Mark Antony to
the senate-house, and he shall say that you are unwell today. Let me, on my
knee, persuade you in this matter.
CAESAR: Mark Antony will inform
them that I am unwell, and, for your sake, I will stay at home.
[Decius Brutus enters.]
DECIUS BRUTUS: Caesar, all hail!
Good morrow, worthy Caesar. I have come to take you to the senate-house.
CAESAR: And you have come at a
fortunate time to convey my greetings to the senators and inform them that I
will not come today. It is not because I cannot come, which would be a lie, nor
because I dare not come, which would be an even greater lie. The truth is, I
choose not to come today. Please, Decius, convey this message to them.
CALPURNIA: Tell them he is sick.
CAESAR: Should Caesar send a lie?
Have I, through conquest, extended my arm so far, only to be afraid of speaking
the truth to old men? Decius, go and inform them that Caesar will not come.
DECIUS BRUTUS: Mighty Caesar,
please let me know the reason for your decision, lest I become a subject of
ridicule when I tell them.
CAESAR: Calpurnia, my wife, holds
me back at home. She dreamt tonight that she saw my statue, which resembled a
fountain with a hundred spouts, gushing with pure blood. Many vigorous Romans
came and joyfully washed their hands in it. She interprets this as a warning of
impending dangers and evils. On her knees, she pleaded for me to stay at home
today.
DECIUS BRUTUS: This dream has
been misinterpreted. It was a positive and fortunate vision. Your statue
spouting blood from many pipes, and the smiling Romans bathing in it,
symbolizes that great Rome will draw strength and life from you. Powerful men
will seek recognition, honor, and symbols of allegiance from you. This is what
Calpurnia's dream actually signifies.
CAESAR: You have indeed provided
a good explanation.
DECIUS BRUTUS: When you hear what
I have to say next, you will know that the Senate has decided to crown you
today. If you inform them that you will not come, they might change their
minds.
CAESAR: Calpurnia, your fears now
seem foolish! I regret giving in to them. Bring me my robe, for I will go.
[Publius, Brutus, Ligarius,
Metellus, Casca, Trebonius, and Cinna enter.]
CAESAR: My good friends, come in
and share some wine with me. Then we, as friends, will go to the Senate
together.
[Brutus speaks to himself aside.]
BRUTUS: Not everyone feels the
same, O Caesar. My heart is burdened with conflicting thoughts.
[They all exit.]
Act III Scene I
[The setting is outside the
Capitol with the Senate sitting above. A flourish of trumpets is heard. Caesar,
Brutus, Cassius, Casca, Decius Brutus, Metellus Cimber, Trebonius, Cinna,
Antony, Lepidus, Popilius, Publius, and others enter.]
CAESAR: Is everyone ready? What
is the matter that Caesar and his Senate must address?
METELLUS CIMBER: Most high,
mighty, and powerful Caesar, Metellus Cimber humbly presents himself before
your seat.
[Kneeling]
CAESAR: I must stop you, Cimber.
These kneeling and humble gestures might excite ordinary men's emotions and
turn mere requests into commands.
Your brother has been banished by
a decree. If you come to beg and plead for him, I will reject you like a stray
dog in my path. Know that Caesar does not act unjustly or without reason, and
he will not be swayed easily.
METELLUS CIMBER: Is there no
other voice more worthy than mine to plead more persuasively in great Caesar's
ear for the repeal of my banished brother?
BRUTUS: I respectfully kiss your
hand, not to flatter you, Caesar. I ask that Publius Cimber be immediately
granted freedom from his banishment.
CAESAR: What, Brutus!
CASSIUS: Please, Caesar, pardon;
Caesar, forgive. I kneel as low as your foot, begging for Publius Cimber's
release.
BRUTUS: I could be easily
persuaded if I were in your position. If praying could change my mind, prayers
would move me. But I am steadfast like the northern star, which remains fixed
and constant in the sky. Just as I was resolute in supporting Cimber's
banishment, I remain firm in that decision.
CASCA: [Drawing his dagger] I
speak through my actions!
[First Casca, then the other
conspirators and Brutus stab Caesar. Caesar exclaims, "Et tu, Brute!"
(You too, Brutus!) and then falls. Caesar dies.]
CINNA: Liberty! Freedom! Tyranny
is dead! Run and proclaim it, cry it in the streets!
CASSIUS: Some of you go to the
public platforms and shout, "Liberty, freedom, and enfranchisement!"
BRUTUS: But here comes Antony.
[Antony returns to the scene.]
ANTONY: Oh mighty Caesar! Do you
lie so low? Have all your conquests, glories, triumphs, and spoils shrunk to
this small moment? Farewell, Caesar.
I don't know, gentlemen, what
your intentions are, whom else you must eliminate, who else is considered a
threat. If I myself am a target, there is no more appropriate time than the
moment of Caesar's death, and no weapons as worthy as your swords, now stained
with the noblest blood in the world.
I beg you, if you have any hatred
for me, then fulfill your desires now, while your hands are still covered in
Caesar's blood and smoke. Even if I could live a thousand years, I wouldn't
find myself more ready to die. No other place or method of death would please
me as much as being cut off here, by Caesar's side, at the hands of all of
you—the exceptional and influential spirits of this era.
BRUTUS: Antony, do not beg for
your death from us. Though we may appear bloody and cruel now, remember that
you only see our hands and the action they have taken. Our hearts, which you
cannot see, are filled with pity for the general wrong done to Rome. Just as
fire can be extinguished by fire, our pity for the state of Rome has driven us
to take this action against Caesar. As for you, Mark Antony, our swords have no
deadly intent. Our actions were motivated by our concern for Rome, and we
welcome you with brotherly love, good thoughts, and respect.
CASSIUS: Your voice will carry
weight in deciding new appointments and honors.
ANTONY: I have no doubt about
your wisdom. Let each man extend his bloodied hand to me. Gentlemen, alas, what
shall I say? My reputation now stands on slippery ground, and you may perceive
me in one of two negative ways: either as a coward or a flatterer. It is true that
I loved you, Caesar. And if your spirit looks down upon us now, will it not
grieve you more than your death to see Antony making peace, shaking the bloody
hands of your enemies, most noble, in the presence of your lifeless body?
CASSIUS: Mark Antony,--
ANTONY: Pardon me, Caius Cassius.
Enemies of Caesar might say the same thing about me, but when a friend does it,
it seems like cold modesty.
CASSIUS: I don't blame you for
praising Caesar. But what do you intend to achieve by joining us? Will you be
counted among our friends, or will we proceed without relying on you?
ANTONY: I took your hands as a
gesture of friendship, but I got sidetracked by thinking about Caesar. I
consider myself friends with all of you and hold affection for you. My hope is
that you will provide me with reasons why and how Caesar was dangerous.
BRUTUS: Our reasons are full of
good intentions, Antony. If you were truly Caesar's son, you would be satisfied
with them.
ANTONY: That's all I want.
Moreover, I request permission to display Caesar's body in the public square
and speak at his funeral as a friend should.
BRUTUS: You shall, Mark Antony.
CASSIUS: Brutus, I need to speak
with you.
(Aside to BRUTUS)
You don't know what you're doing.
Don't allow Antony to speak at Caesar's funeral. Do you realize how much the
people may be swayed by his words?
BRUTUS: Please pardon me, but I
will go up to the pulpit first and explain the reasons behind Caesar's death.
Whatever Antony says, I will make it clear that he speaks with our permission.
CASSIUS: I don't know what might
happen, and I don't like the idea.
BRUTUS: Mark Antony, here, you
can take Caesar's body. In your funeral speech, you must not blame us, but
instead speak all the good you can think of about Caesar. And remember to say
that you do so with our permission. Otherwise, you won't have any part in his
funeral. You'll speak from the same pulpit where I'll be speaking after my
speech is done.
ANTONY: So be it. I don't desire
anything more.
BRUTUS: Then prepare the body and
follow us.
(All exit except ANTONY)
ANTONY: Oh, forgive me, you
bleeding piece of earth,
That I am mild and gentle with
these murderers!
You were the ruins of the noblest
man
Who ever lived in the course of
history.
Cursed be the hand that spilled
this precious blood!
Now, over your wounds, I make a
prophecy—
They, like mute mouths, open
their red lips,
Begging for my voice to speak
their truth—
A curse shall fall upon the
people's limbs;
Domestic fury and fierce civil
strife
Shall afflict all parts of Italy;
Bloodshed and destruction shall
become so common
And dreadful sights so familiar
That mothers will only smile when
they see
Their infants quartered by the
hands of war;
All compassion choked by the
habit of cruel deeds.
And Caesar's spirit, seeking
revenge,
With the goddess of discord, Ate,
by his side,
Will come hot from hell within
these borders,
Crying 'Havoc,' and unleashing
the dogs of war;
This vile deed shall reek above
the earth
With corpses of men, groaning for
burial.
(They exit with Caesar's body)
The Forum. Act III -Scene II
(Brutus and Cassius enter,
followed by a throng of citizens)
Citizens: We will be satisfied;
let us be satisfied.
Brutus: Then follow me, and
listen to me, friends.
(Brutus goes into the pulpit)
First Citizen: I will hear Brutus
speak.
Second Citizen: The noble Brutus
is about to speak; silence!
Brutus: Be patient until the end.
Romans, countrymen, and dear
friends, listen to me and remain silent, so you can hear me clearly. Believe me
because of my honor, and respect my honor so that you can trust my words. Judge
me with your wisdom and awaken your senses so you can make a fair judgment.
If there is anyone among you who
was a dear friend of Caesar's, I say to them that my love for Caesar was no
less than theirs. If that friend asks why I rose against Caesar, here is my
answer: It was not because I loved Caesar less, but because I loved Rome more.
Would you rather have Caesar
alive and all of us living as slaves, or have Caesar dead and all of us living
as free men? I weep for Caesar's love; I rejoice at his good fortune; I honor
his bravery. But as for his ambition, I had to act. There are tears for his
love, joy for his good fortune, honor for his bravery, and death for his
ambition. Who here is so low that they would be a slave? If anyone, speak up,
for I may have offended them. Who here is so uncivilized that they would not be
a Roman? If anyone, speak up, for I may have offended them. Who here is so
wicked that they would not love their country? If anyone, speak up, for I may
have offended them. I await your reply.
All: None, Brutus, none.
Brutus: Then I have offended no
one. I have done no more to Caesar than you would do to me. The matter of his
death has been decided in the Capitol; his glory has not been diminished, as he
was worthy, nor have his wrongdoings been exaggerated, for which he faced
death.
(Enter Antony and others,
carrying Caesar's body)
Antony: Here comes his body,
mourned by Mark Antony, who, though he had no part in his death, shall still
benefit from his passing with a place in the commonwealth, just like any of
you. With this, I take my leave, knowing that just as I killed my dearest
friend for the good of Rome, I hold the same dagger for myself when my country
needs my death.
All: Live, Brutus! Live, live!
First Citizen: Bring him with
triumph to his house.
Second Citizen: Give him a statue
with his ancestors.
Third Citizen: Let him be Caesar.
Fourth Citizen: Caesar's better
qualities shall be celebrated in Brutus.
First Citizen: We'll bring him to
his house with shouts and cheers.
Brutus: My fellow citizens...
Second Citizen: Peace, silence!
Brutus is about to speak.
First Citizen: Quiet, everyone!
Brutus: Good countrymen, let me
leave alone, and for my sake, stay here with Antony. Show respect to Caesar's
body and listen to Antony's speech honoring Caesar's achievements. By our
permission, Antony is allowed to speak. I urge you, no one should leave, except
me, until Antony has spoken.
(Exit)
(First Citizen interrupts)
First Citizen: Wait! Let us hear
Mark Antony.
Third Citizen: Let him go up into
the public chair; we'll hear him. Noble Antony, go up.
(Antony goes into the pulpit)
Fourth Citizen: What does he say
of Brutus?
Third Citizen: He says, for
Brutus' sake, he finds himself grateful to all of us.
Fourth Citizen: It would be best
if he doesn't speak ill of Brutus here.
First Citizen: This Caesar was a
tyrant.
Third Citizen: Nay, that's
certain. We are blessed that Rome is rid of him.
Second Citizen: Peace! Let us
hear what Antony can say.
Antony: You gentle Romans...
Citizens: Peace, ho! Let us hear
him.
Antony: Friends, Romans,
countrymen, lend me your ears; I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him. The
evil that men do lives after them; the good is oft interred with their bones.
So let it be with Caesar. The noble Brutus has told you Caesar was ambitious:
if it were so, it was a grievous fault, and grievously has Caesar answered it.
Here, under leave of Brutus and the rest—for Brutus is an honorable man; so are
they all, all honorable men—I come to speak at Caesar's funeral. He was my
friend, faithful and just to me. But Brutus says he was ambitious, and Brutus
is an honorable man. He hath brought many captives home to Rome whose ransoms
did the general coffers fill. Did this in Caesar seem ambitious? When the poor
have cried, Caesar hath wept. Ambition should be made of sterner stuff. Yet
Brutus says he was ambitious, and Brutus is an honorable man. You all did see
that on the Lupercal, I thrice presented him a kingly crown, which he did
thrice refuse. Was this ambition? Yet Brutus says he was ambitious, and, sure,
he is an honorable man. I speak not to disprove what Brutus spoke, but here I
am to speak what I do know. You all did love him once, not without cause. What
cause withholds you then, to mourn for him? O judgment! Thou art fled to
brutish beasts, and men have lost their reason. Bear with me; my heart is in
the coffin there with Caesar, and I must pause till it come back to me.
First Citizen: Me thinks there is
much reason in his sayings.
Second Citizen: If you consider
rightly of the matter, Caesar has had great wrong.
Third Citizen: Has he, masters? I
fear there will be someone worse to take his place.
Fourth Citizen: Did you notice
his words? He would not take the crown; therefore, it's certain he was not
ambitious.
First Citizen: If it be found so,
some will suffer for it.
Second Citizen: Poor soul! His
eyes are red as fire with weeping.
Third Citizen: There's not a
nobler man in Rome than Antony.
Fourth Citizen: Now, mark him, he
begins again to speak.
Antony: But yesterday, the word
of Caesar might have stood against the world; now, lies he there, and none so
poor to do him reverence. O masters, if I were disposed to stir your hearts and
minds to mutiny and rage, I should do Brutus wrong, and Cassius wrong, who, you
all know, are honorable men. I will not do them wrong; I rather choose to wrong
the dead, to wrong myself and you, than I will wrong such honorable men. But
here's a parchment with the seal of Caesar; I found it in his closet, it's his
will. Let but the commons hear this testament—which, pardon me, I do not mean
to read—and they would go and kiss dead Caesar's wounds 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 legacy unto their issue.
Fourth Citizen: We'll hear the
will: read it, Mark Antony.
All: The will, the will! We will
hear Caesar's will.
Antony: Please be patient, my
friends. I cannot read the will to you. It's not appropriate for you to know
how much Caesar loved you. You are not just objects; you are human beings. If I
were to read the will to you, it would anger and upset you. It's better that
you don't know that you are mentioned in it as his heirs. Trust me, it's for
your own good.
But if you insist, I will read it
to you. But I urge you to be cautious and not let your emotions take control.
ANTONY: Please, be patient, my
friends, I can't read it now.
It's not right for you to know
how Caesar loved you.
You're not wood or stones; you're
human beings.
Hearing Caesar's will might upset
you, make you angry.
It's better if you don't know
that you're his heirs;
Because if you knew, who knows
what might happen!
Fourth Citizen: Read the will! We
want to hear it, Antony;
You should read us Caesar's will.
ANTONY: Will you wait? Can you
give me some time?
I've already said too much, and
I'm afraid
I might offend the honorable men
Whose daggers killed Caesar; I
really fear it.
Fourth Citizen: They were
traitors: honorable men!
All: The will! the testament!
Second Citizen: They were
villains, murderers: read the will!
ANTONY: Do you really want me to
read the will?
Alright, gather around Caesar's
body,
And I'll show you the person who
made the will.
Should I come down? Will you give
me permission?
Several Citizens: Come down.
Second Citizen: Come down.
Third Citizen: You have our
permission.
ANTONY comes down
Fourth Citizen: Make a circle
around him.
ANTONY: If you have tears, get
ready to shed them now.
You all know this cloak: I
remember
The first time Caesar wore it;
It was on a summer evening, in
his tent,
The day he conquered the Nervii:
Look, here Cassius' dagger ran
through it:
See the hole Casca made out of
envy:
Through this, Brutus, whom Caesar
loved,
Stabbed him and pulled out his
cursed knife.
See how Caesar's blood followed
the dagger,
As if it rushed out of a door,
trying to escape.
Caesar loved Brutus like an
angel,
Oh gods, how dearly he loved him!
This was the most unkindest cut
of all;
When noble Caesar saw Brutus stab
him,
Ingratitude, stronger than
traitors' weapons,
Overwhelmed him, and his mighty
heart burst;
He covered his face with his
cloak,
Even at the base of Pompey's
statue,
Which was flowing with blood,
Caesar fell.
Oh, what a terrible fall it was,
my countrymen!
Then all of us fell down too,
While bloody treason flourished
over us.
Now you weep, and I see you feel
The pain of pity, these are
heartfelt tears.
Kind people, do you weep just by
seeing
Caesar's cloak wounded? Look,
here is Caesar himself,
Damaged, as you can see, by
traitors.
First Citizen: Oh, what a sad
sight!
Second Citizen: Oh, noble Caesar!
Third Citizen: Oh, what a
terrible day!
Fourth Citizen: Oh, traitors,
villains!
First Citizen: Oh, it's a very
bloody sight!
Second Citizen: We will get
revenge.
All: Revenge! Let's go! Find
them! Burn! Fire! Kill! Slay!
No traitor should be spared!
ANTONY: Please, my fellow
citizens, calm down.
First Citizen: Quiet there! Let's
listen to Antony, who is noble.
Second Citizen: We'll listen to
him, follow him, and even die with him.
ANTONY: My good friends, dear
friends, don't let me rile you up
To such a sudden outbreak of
anger.
Those who committed this act are
honorable:
I don't know their private
grievances that led them to do it.
They are wise and honorable,
And will surely give you reasons
for their actions.
I'm not here to manipulate you:
I'm not a skilled speaker like
Brutus.
But you all know me, a simple and
honest man,
Who loves my friend, and you know
that I have permission
To speak about him publicly.
I don't have the cleverness,
words, or eloquence,
Or the power of speech to incite
you:
I only speak the truth;
I tell you what you already know;
I show you Caesar's wounds, poor
silent mouths,
And ask them to speak for me.
But if I were Brutus,
And Brutus were Antony, then
Antony
Would stir up your emotions and
speak in every wound of Caesar,
To make the people of Rome rise
and rebel.
All: Yes, we'll rebel!
First Citizen: Let's burn Brutus'
house.
Third Citizen: Come on, let's
find the conspirators.
ANTONY: Please listen to me, my
fellow citizens; let me speak.
All: Quiet! Listen to Antony.
Most noble Antony!
ANTONY: Why are you doing this?
What did Caesar do to deserve your love?
You don't know. Let me tell you:
You have forgotten about the will
I mentioned.
All: That's right. The will!
Let's stay and hear the will.
ANTONY: Here is the will, sealed
by Caesar.
He gives something to every Roman
citizen,
Seventy-five drachmas to each
person.
Second Citizen: Noble Caesar!
We'll avenge his death.
Third Citizen: Oh, royal Caesar!
ANTONY: Please listen to me
patiently.
All: Quiet!
ANTONY: Besides, he has left you
all his private gardens and orchards,
On this side of the Tiber River.
He left them to you
And your descendants forever, for
you to enjoy,
To walk around and have fun.
Wasn't Caesar a great leader?
When will we see another like him?
First Citizen: Never, never. Come
on, let's go!
We'll burn his body in a sacred
place
And use the fire to destroy the
traitors' houses.
Take the body away.
Second Citizen: Go get some fire.
Third Citizen: Tear down the
benches.
Fourth Citizen: Tear down the
seats, windows, anything.
Exeunt Citizens with the body.
ANTONY: Now let it happen.
Trouble, you are starting.
Do whatever you want to do!
Exeunt.
After the
events in the extract, Antony stirs up the crowd, urging them towards revenge.
Later, he meets with Octavius Caesar, who is Julius Caesar's nephew, and
together they plan to eliminate any potential threats to their rule. Meanwhile,
Brutus and Cassius, who once fought side by side, begin to drift apart. Brutus,
the idealist, is upset by Cassius' focus on practical matters. The armies of
Octavius Caesar and Antony clash with those of Brutus and Cassius at Philippi
and Sardis. Unfortunately, Brutus and Cassius face defeat in these battles. Overwhelmed
by the circumstances, both of them decide to take their own lives.
SUMMARY OF THE PLAY:
Act I:
The play begins in Rome, where
Julius Caesar is celebrating his victory over Pompey and his sons. The common
people adore Caesar, while some senators, including Cassius and Brutus, are
wary of his growing power and fear that he may become a tyrant. Cassius, a
skilled manipulator, works on Brutus to convince him that Caesar is ambitious
and dangerous to the republic.
Act II:
Cassius continues to manipulate
Brutus, and together they plot to assassinate Caesar to prevent him from
becoming a dictator. They recruit several other senators to join their
conspiracy, including Decius Brutus and Casca. Meanwhile, Caesar's wife,
Calpurnia, has nightmares about his death and begs him not to go to the Senate
on the Ides of March. However, Decius Brutus convinces Caesar that the dreams
are positive omens and persuades him to go.
Act III:
On the Ides of March, the conspirators
gather at the Senate, and Caesar arrives, accompanied by Mark Antony. As they
surround Caesar, the conspirators stab him to death, with Brutus delivering the
final blow. Antony witnesses Caesar's murder but is allowed to live by the
conspirators, who believe he poses no threat.
After Caesar's assassination,
Brutus addresses the Roman people, explaining that they killed Caesar to
preserve the republic. He believes the citizens will understand and support
their actions. However, Antony delivers a brilliant and emotional speech at
Caesar's funeral, turning the crowd against the conspirators. The mob becomes
enraged and seeks revenge against the murderers.
Act IV:
Antony, Octavius Caesar (Julius
Caesar's adopted son), and Lepidus form a triumvirate to rule Rome. They begin
a brutal purge of those perceived as enemies, including Cicero. Meanwhile,
Brutus and Cassius raise armies to confront the forces of Antony and Octavius.
Act V:
The armies of Brutus and Cassius
clash with those of Antony and Octavius at Philippi. Brutus, troubled by
internal conflicts and haunted by Caesar's ghost, faces defeat. He commits
suicide, and Cassius also kills himself after mistakenly believing Brutus has
been defeated. Antony and Octavius emerge victorious, and the play ends with
Antony praising Brutus as "the noblest Roman of them all."
Themes:
"Julius Caesar"
explores several key themes, including the nature of power and ambition, the
consequences of political intrigue and betrayal, the conflict between personal
loyalty and loyalty to the state, and the complexities of human nature. The
play also raises questions about the responsibilities of leaders and the impact
of their decisions on the fate of a nation.
In conclusion, "Julius Caesar" is a
gripping historical tragedy that delves into the psychological complexities of
its characters and the political intrigues of ancient Rome. It examines the
consequences of ambition and betrayal and the price of power in a world rife
with political strife. The play's timeless themes and memorable characters
continue to resonate with audiences and make it one of Shakespeare's most
enduring works.
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VOCABULARY:
1. Ambition
- Strong desire for power, success, or achievement.
2. Assassination
- The act of killing someone, especially a prominent figure, usually for
political or ideological reasons.
3. Conspirators
- Individuals who plan together in secret to commit a harmful, illegal, or
treacherous act, such as the assassination of a leader.
4. Triumvirate
- A group or coalition of three individuals who hold power or authority, often
used in the context of Roman politics.
5. Republic
- A form of government in which power is held by elected representatives and
the head of state is not a monarch.
6. Dictator
- A ruler who holds absolute power, often gained through force and not subject
to the rule of law or democratic processes.
7. Omens
- Signs or events believed to foreshadow future events, often interpreted as
warnings or predictions.
8. Tyrant
- A cruel and oppressive ruler who exercises absolute power and authority without
concern for the rights and welfare of the people.
9. Purge
- To remove or eliminate, especially to eliminate individuals considered
undesirable or threats to those in power.
10. Senate
- A governing body, typically in a republic, consisting of elected or appointed
representatives.
11. Ides
of March - The 15th of March, an ominous date historically associated with the
assassination of Julius Caesar.
12. Tragedy
- A dramatic work in which the main character experiences great suffering and
often meets a tragic end.
13. Betrayal
- The act of being disloyal or treacherous to someone's trust or confidence.
14. Loyalty
- Faithfulness and allegiance to a person, group, cause, or ideal.
15. Power
- The ability to influence or control others, often associated with authority
and dominance.
16. Conflict
- A struggle or disagreement between opposing forces or characters, a central
element in the development of a plot.
17. Revenge
- Retribution or retaliation in response to perceived wrongs or injustices.
18. Speech
- A formal address or communication, often used to persuade, inform, or inspire
an audience.
19. Brutus
- A character in the play, Marcus Brutus, who is a close friend of Julius
Caesar and becomes involved in the conspiracy against him.
20. Cassius
- Another character in the play, Caius Cassius, who is the main instigator and
organizer of the conspiracy to assassinate Caesar.
21. Calpurnia
- Caesar's wife, who has ominous dreams and forebodings about her husband's
fate.
22. Mark
Antony - A loyal friend of Caesar who becomes a prominent figure in the
aftermath of Caesar's assassination and delivers the famous funeral oration.
23. Octavius
Caesar - Julius Caesar's nephew and adopted heir, who later becomes the first
Roman Emperor, known as Augustus.
24. Roman
- Relating to the ancient civilization of Rome or its people.
25. Mob
- A large, disorganized crowd, often characterized by unruly or aggressive
behavior.
26. Triumph
- A grand celebration or parade held to honor a victorious military leader or
to mark a significant achievement.
27. Ghost
- The spirit or apparition of a deceased person, often believed to communicate
with the living.
28. Leadership
- The ability to guide, influence, and direct others towards a common goal or
purpose.
29. Intrigue
- Secretive and often complex plotting or scheming to achieve a particular
goal.
30. Consequences
- The outcomes or results of actions, often carrying significant impact or
importance.
31. Fate
- The concept that events are predetermined and beyond human control.
32. Noble
- Possessing high moral principles, nobility of character, or distinguished
social rank.
33. Ambitious
- Having a strong desire for success, power, or achievement.
34. Perceive
- To become aware of or recognize something through the senses or intuition.
35. Persuade
- To convince or influence someone to do or believe something through reasoning
or argument.
36. Enraged
- Filled with intense anger or fury.
37. Defeat
- To overcome or prevail over in a competition or conflict.
38. Victory
- The state of winning or achieving success, often in a battle or contest.
39. Pity
- Compassion or sympathy towards someone's suffering or misfortune.
40. Honour
- High respect, esteem, or regard for one's character or accomplishments.
41. Grief
- Deep sorrow or sadness, especially in response to loss or tragedy.
42. Orator
- A skilled and eloquent public speaker.
43. Arbours
- Shaded areas or bowers covered with vines or other climbing plants.
44. Infamous
- Having a reputation for being notoriously evil or disgraceful.
45. Flatterer
- Someone who lavishes excessive praise or compliments to gain favor or
manipulate others.
46. Loyalist
- A person who remains faithful and devoted to a particular cause, person, or
group.
47. Grieving
- Experiencing deep sorrow and mourning, often in response to a loss.
48. Dignities
- High positions, honors, or titles of respect and authority.
49. Mutiny
- A rebellion or uprising against authority, especially by members of the same
group or organization.
50. Soothsayer
- A person who claims to predict the future through supernatural means or
divination.
51. Martyr
- A person who sacrifices their life or suffers greatly for a belief, cause, or
principle.
52. Mourning
- Expressing grief or sorrow, often in response to a death or tragedy.
53. Mischievous
- Playfully causing annoyance, harm, or trouble.
54. Barbarous
- Extremely cruel, brutal, or uncivilized.
55. Cunning
- Crafty, sly, or deceitful in achieving one's goals.
56. Piteous
- Arousing or deserving pity or compassion.
57. Tumult
- A noisy and disorderly commotion or disturbance.
58. Remorse
- Deep regret or guilt for past actions or wrongdoing.
59. Statues
- Sculpted representations of people, often used as memorials or to honor
significant figures.
60. Tribunes
- Officials in ancient Rome who protected the rights and interests of the
common people.
61. Pre-ordinance
- An event or happening that is considered to be predestined or fated.
62. Ingratitude
- Lack of appreciation or thankfulness for kindness or favors received.
63. Vanquished
- Conquered or defeated in a battle or competition.
64. Ruffian
- A violent and lawless person, especially a criminal or thug.
65. Prophesy
- To predict or foretell future events, often with divine inspiration.
66. Entrails
- The internal organs, especially the intestines, of a human or animal.
67. Malice
- The intention or desire to cause harm, injury, or suffering to others.
68. Extenuated
- To make a crime or offense appear less serious or more forgivable.
69. Brutish
- Savage, cruel, or uncivilized, resembling characteristics of a brute.
70. Neigh
- The characteristic sound made by a horse; to make such a sound.
71. Sooth
- Truth or reality; often used in the context of predictions or prophecies.
72. Vesture
- Clothing or garments, especially those indicating rank or office.
73. Muffling
- To wrap or cover, often to conceal or protect something.
74. Envious
- Feeling or showing jealousy or resentment towards someone's possessions,
qualities, or success.
75. Arbours
- Shaded areas or bowers covered with vines or other climbing plants.
76. Hath
- An archaic form of "has" or "have."
77. Hence
- From this place or time; therefore.
78. Henceforth
- From this point forward; starting now.
79. Thrice
- Three times.
80. Yon
- Referring to a location or object at a distance, yonder.
81. Thence
- From that place; from there.
82. Wherefore
- For what reason or purpose; why.
83. Whence
- From what place or source.
84. Whither
- To what place or direction.
85. Thither
- To that place; there.
86. Anon
- Soon or shortly; in a little while.
87. Ay
- Yes.
88. 'Tis
- Contraction of "it is."
89. Farewell
- An expression of good wishes when parting; goodbye.
90. Forthwith
- Immediately; without delay.
91. Gory
- Covered with blood; gruesome and bloody.
92. Henceforward
- From this time on; from now on.
93. Hast
- Archaic second person singular form of "have."
94. Henceforward
- From this time on; from now on.
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Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare - Multiple Choice Quiz
1. Who
is the central character of the play "Julius Caesar"?
a) Mark Antony b) Cassius c) Julius Caesar d) Octavius Caesar
2. What
type of government is Rome depicted as having in the play?
a) Monarchy b) Oligarchy c) Republic d)
Theocracy
3. Who
warns Caesar about the Ides of March?
a) Cassius b) Mark Antony c)
Calpurnia d) Brutus
4. Who
is the main instigator of the conspiracy against Caesar?
a) Mark Antony
b) Octavius
Caesar
c) Cassius
d) Brutus
5. What
does Brutus consider before joining the conspiracy?
a) His loyalty to Caesar
b)
His love for Mark Antony
c) The welfare of the Roman
people
d) His desire
for power
6. Who
delivers the famous funeral oration in honor of Caesar?
a) Mark Antony
b) Octavius
Caesar
c) Cassius
d) Brutus
7. What
does Mark Antony use as a rhetorical device in his speech?
a) Irony b) Hyperbole c) Repetition d)
Alliteration
8. What
happens to Caesar on the Ides of March?
a) He is exiled from Rome.
b) He is assassinated.
c) He is crowned king.
d) He is offered a triumph.
9. What
do the conspirators do immediately after Caesar's assassination?
a) Flee from Rome
b)
Celebrate their victory
c) Take control of the Senate
d) Declare war on other
nations
10. Who
joins forces with Mark Antony against the conspirators?
a) Cassius
b) Octavius Caesar
c)
Brutus
d) Calpurnia
11. What
does the mob do to Cinna the poet during Caesar's funeral?
a) Elects him as their leader
b) Cheers for him as a hero
c) Crowns him with laurels
d) Mistakes him for another man and
kills him
12. What
tragic flaw does Brutus have?
a) Pride
b) Greed
c) Jealousy
d)
Ambition
13. What
do the conspirators believe will happen after Caesar's death?
a) They will be rewarded with
titles and riches
b)
Rome will become a monarchy
c) The people will celebrate
their actions
d)
Peace and prosperity will reign in Rome
14. How
does Portia die?
a) She commits suicide by
poisoning herself
b)
She is killed in battle
c) She is assassinated by the
conspirators
d)
She dies of a broken heart
15. What
does Caesar's ghost tell Brutus?
a) To beware the Ides of March
b)
To seek revenge against the conspirators
c) To withdraw from the battle at
Philippi
d) To
protect Mark Antony
16. What
do the triumvirs do after defeating the conspirators?
a) They declare war on Egypt
b)
They hold a grand celebration in Rome
c) They divide the Roman Empire
among themselves
d) They appoint new
senators
17. What
happens to Brutus at the end of the play?
a) He is captured and executed by
the triumvirs
b)
He goes into exile
c) He commits suicide
d)
He is crowned the new Emperor of Rome
18. Who
delivers the final speech of the play, praising Brutus?
a) Octavius Caesar
b) Mark Antony
c) Cassius
d) Octavia
19. What
is the significance of the title "Julius Caesar" for the play?
a) It reflects Caesar's rise to
power
b) It foreshadows Caesar's
assassination
c) It represents the conflict
between Caesar and the conspirators
d) It emphasizes the importance
of Rome's history
20. What
role do omens play in the play's plot?
a) They accurately predict the
future
b) They
influence the characters' actions and decisions
c) They serve as warnings from
the gods
d)
They cause conflicts between characters
21. Who
speaks the famous line, "Et tu, Brute?"
a) Cassius
b) Mark Antony
c)
Octavius Caesar
d) Julius Caesar
22. How
does Cassius die?
a) He is executed by the
triumvirs
b) He commits suicide
by swallowing hot coals
c) He is killed in battle
d) He dies
of natural causes
23. What
is the theme of the play "Julius Caesar"?
a) Betrayal and loyalty
b) Love and hate
c) War and peace
d)
Wisdom and folly
24. Which
character convinces Brutus to join the conspiracy?
a) Mark Antony
b) Cassius
c) Octavius Caesar
d) Portia
25. How
does Mark Antony manipulate the crowd during Caesar's funeral?
a) By telling them the truth
about the conspiracy
b) By appealing to their emotions
and using rhetoric
c) By bribing them with gold and
silver
d) By threatening them with
violence
26. Who
gives the first warning to Caesar about the conspiracy?
a) Calpurnia
b) Portia
c) Soothsayer
d)
Mark Antony
27. Who
writes fake letters to convince Brutus to join the conspiracy?
a) Calpurnia
b) Portia
c) Cassius
d)
Mark Antony
28. What
does Cassius accuse Brutus of being when Brutus disagrees with him?
a) A coward
b) A traitor
c) An ambitious man
d)
A noble Roman
29. What
does Brutus do before joining the conspiracy against Caesar?
a) Writes a letter to warn Caesar
b) Meets with the
other conspirators
c) Holds a public speech
d)
Seeks advice from a soothsayer
30. What
do the conspirators plan to do after Caesar's assassination?
a) Establish a new form of
government
b) Distribute
Caesar's wealth among the people
c) Flee from Rome and live in
exile
d) Explain
their actions to the public
31. Who
is the last person to stab Caesar?
a) Brutus
b) Cassius
c)
Casca
d)
Mark Antony
32. How
does Cassius feel about Caesar?
a) He admires and respects him
b) He fears and
hates him
c) He is indifferent to him
d) He is related to
him
33. What
does Portia use to prove her strength and worthiness to Brutus?
a) She stabs herself in the leg
b) She argues with him
about the conspiracy
c) She sends him a heartfelt
letter
d) She walks barefoot in
the streets of Rome
34. How
does Calpurnia try to prevent Caesar from going to the Senate?
a) She hides his clothes
b) She locks him in his room
c) She begs him not to go
d) She interprets her bad dreams as
omens
35. How
does the crowd react to Mark Antony's speech during Caesar's funeral?
a) They are inspired to join the
conspiracy
b) They attack and
kill Mark Antony
c) They are indifferent and
uninterested
d)
They riot and seek revenge against the conspirators
36. Who
leads the forces that defeat Brutus and Cassius at Philippi?
a) Mark Antony
b) Octavius
Caesar
c) Cassius
d) Lucius
37. What
does Octavius Caesar do after the defeat of the conspirators?
a) He declares himself the new
Emperor of Rome
b) He pardons the conspirators
and offers them positions of power
c) He becomes a recluse and
withdraws from public life
d) He joins forces with Mark
Antony and Lepidus to form the Second Triumvirate
38. Who
calls Brutus "the noblest Roman of them all"?
a) Octavius Caesar
b) Mark Antony
c) Cassius
d) Cicero
39. How
does Cassius interpret the bad omens before the battle of Philippi?
a) As a sign of his impending
death
b) As a warning to abandon
the battle
c) As a sign of the gods' favor
d) As a call for more
sacrifices to the gods
40. What
message does the play "Julius Caesar" convey about the nature of
power and ambition?
a) Ambition leads to success and
glory
b) Power corrupts
and leads to downfall
c) Power should be shared among
many
d)
Ambition is only acceptable in rulers
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Answer the following questions briefly.
a) How do the heavens 'blaze forth' the death of Julius Caesar?
ANS: In the play "Julius Caesar" by William Shakespeare,
the heavens "blaze forth" the death of Julius Caesar through various
supernatural occurrences and omens. These omens include a fierce storm, strange
and unnatural occurrences in the sky, and various animal behaviors that are
seen as signs of impending doom. For instance, there are reports of a lioness
giving birth in the streets, dead men walking, and warriors fighting in the
clouds. These phenomena are believed to be messages from the gods foretelling
Caesar's tragic fate and the tumultuous times that lie ahead for Rome.
b) What does Calpurnia try to convince Caesar of?
ANS: Calpurnia tries to convince
Caesar not to go to the Senate on the Ides of March because she has had
disturbing dreams and omens that foretell of a great danger befalling him on
that day. She pleads with Caesar to stay at home and avoid any potential harm.
Calpurnia is fearful for her husband's safety and believes that the omens are a
sign from the gods warning them of impending danger. However, despite her
efforts, Caesar is ultimately persuaded by Decius Brutus to attend the Senate,
which leads to his assassination.
c) Why does Calpurnia say Caesar's 'wisdom is consumed in confidence'?
What does she mean?
ANS: Calpurnia says Caesar's
'wisdom is consumed in confidence' because she believes that his overconfidence
and arrogance are blinding him to the potential dangers that lie ahead. In this
context, confidence refers to Caesar's self-assuredness and belief in his own
invincibility.
Calpurnia is trying to convey
that Caesar's excessive confidence in his own judgment is making him disregard
the omens and warnings that she perceives as signs of impending danger. She
believes that he is too self-assured to see the potential risks and is
underestimating the gravity of the situation. Calpurnia's concern is that Caesar's
hubris may lead to his downfall, and she wants him to exercise caution and heed
the warnings she has received in her dreams and omens.
d) What does Calpurnia dream about Caesar? How does Decius Brutus
interpret the dream?
ANS: Calpurnia dreams that she sees
a vision of Caesar's statue with a hundred spouts, and from each spout, there
flows pure blood. In her dream, many Roman citizens come forward and happily
bathe their hands in the flowing blood. This dream frightens her and adds to
her concern about Caesar's safety.
When Decius Brutus interprets the
dream for Caesar, he cleverly twists its meaning to convince Caesar to go to
the Senate House despite Calpurnia's warnings. Decius interprets the dream as a
positive sign rather than a foreboding one. He tells Caesar that the vision of
the spouting blood symbolizes that Caesar's blood is reviving and rejuvenating
Rome. He claims that the Romans will receive new life and vigor from Caesar's
presence in the Senate, and that they will seek blessings, relics, and tokens
of favor from him. Decius further flatters Caesar, implying that the dream is a
good omen and that Caesar's presence in the Senate will be highly beneficial
for Rome. His interpretation successfully persuades Caesar to change his mind
and attend the Senate House, ultimately leading to the tragic events that
unfold later in the play.
e) What are the arguments put forward by Decius Brutus to convince
Caesar to go to the Capitol?
ANS: Decius Brutus puts forward
the argument that the Senate has decided to offer Caesar a crown, and they wish
to honor him for his accomplishments and victories. Decius claims that if
Caesar does not attend the Senate on that day, the senators may change their
minds and revoke their decision, which could be seen as a sign of disrespect
towards Caesar's authority and popularity. He manipulates the situation by
presenting the Senate's supposed admiration and desire to bestow a crown upon
Caesar, appealing to his ambition and pride.
f) Why is Decius more successful than Calpurnia in persuading Caesar?
ANS: Decius is more successful
than Calpurnia in persuading Caesar because he plays on Caesar's ego and
ambition. He flatters Caesar by suggesting that the Senate wishes to offer him
a crown, appealing to his desire for power and recognition. Decius is skilled
at manipulating Caesar's emotions and uses his powers of persuasion effectively
to change Caesar's mind and convince him to attend the Senate.
g) What is the petition put before Caesar by the conspirators? How does
Caesar respond to it?
ANS: The conspirators petition
Caesar to repeal the decree that has exiled Publius Cimber, one of their own.
They ask him to allow Publius Cimber to return to Rome and lift his banishment.
Caesar refuses their request, denying the appeal of the conspirators.
h) Who says "Et tu Brute"? When are these words spoken? Why?
ANS: The words "Et tu,
Brute?" are spoken by Julius Caesar when he sees Brutus among the
conspirators during the assassination. These words mean "Even you,
Brutus?" and are filled with shock and betrayal. Caesar is deeply hurt by
the fact that his close friend Brutus has also participated in the conspiracy
against him.
i) In the moments following Caesar's death what do the conspirators
proclaim to justify Caesar's death?
ANS: In the moments following
Caesar's death, the conspirators proclaim to justify Caesar's death that they
have killed him for the good of Rome and to prevent him from becoming a tyrant.
They claim that they acted in the interest of preserving the Roman Republic and
maintaining the democratic values of the state.
j) Seeing the body of Caesar, Antony is overcome by grief. What does he
say about Caesar?
ANS: Seeing the body of Caesar,
Antony is overcome by grief and expresses deep sorrow. He refers to Caesar as
"the noblest man" and acknowledges his great achievements, conquests,
and glories. Antony mourns the loss of his dear friend and the greatest man he
ever knew.
k) Whom does Antony call 'the choice and master spirits of this
age"? Why?
ANS: Antony calls Brutus and Cassius
"the choice and master spirits of this age" during Caesar's funeral
speech. He uses this phrase sarcastically to criticize Brutus and Cassius for
their role in the assassination. Antony implies that they are cunning and
manipulative, using their influence to deceive the Roman citizens into
believing that Caesar's death was necessary for the greater good.
l) How do Brutus and Cassius respond to Antony's speech?
ANS: Brutus and Cassius respond
to Antony's speech with concern and worry. They fear that Antony's words will
incite the citizens of Rome against them and create a rebellion. They recognize
that Antony is skilled at oration and can sway the emotions of the crowd. They
are aware of the potential danger in allowing Antony to speak at the funeral.
m) Why does Cassius object to allowing Antony to speak at Caesar's
funeral? How does Brutus overcome this objection?
ANS: Cassius objects to allowing
Antony to speak at Caesar's funeral because he believes that Antony will use
the opportunity to turn the citizens against the conspirators. He fears that
Antony will incite a revolt and seek revenge for Caesar's death, which could
jeopardize their plans for the future of Rome. Cassius does not trust Antony
and believes that it would be safer to prevent him from addressing the crowd.
n) What are the conditions imposed by the conspirators before allowing
Antony to speak at Caesar's funeral?
ANS: To allow Antony to speak at
Caesar's funeral, the conspirators impose the condition that Antony must speak
after Brutus and agree to follow certain guidelines set by Brutus. They believe
that by speaking first, Brutus will set the tone of the funeral oration and
provide a more favorable impression of their actions. Antony agrees to these
conditions, not revealing his true intentions until he begins his speech.
o) When he is left alone with the body of Caesar what does Anthony call
Brutus and the others?
ANS: When he is left alone with
the body of Caesar, Antony refers to Brutus and the others as
"butchers" and "bloody villains." He speaks with sorrow and
anger, vowing to seek revenge for Caesar's murder and to expose the
conspirators' true intentions to the citizens of Rome.
p) What prediction does Antony make regarding the future events in
Rome?
ANS: Antony predicts that the
death of Caesar will lead to violence and civil unrest in Rome. He foresees a
period of chaos and bloodshed as the citizens seek revenge for Caesar's death,
and he believes that Rome will descend into a state of anarchy and turmoil.
q) What reasons does Brutus give for murdering Caesar?
ANS: Brutus gives several reasons
for murdering Caesar. He claims that he killed Caesar out of love for Rome and
the Roman people, believing that Caesar's ambition posed a threat to the
republic and its democratic principles. Brutus sees Caesar as a potential
tyrant who would undermine the freedom and rights of the citizens. He justifies
the assassination as an act of patriotism and sacrifice for the greater good of
Rome.
r) Who says, "Let him be Caesar"? What light does this throw
on the speaker?
ANS: The speaker of the phrase
"Let him be Caesar" is Mark Antony. He says this when the
conspirators show him Caesar's lifeless body and ask him to join their cause.
The phrase indicates Antony's support for Caesar's reign and suggests that he
does not wish to see Caesar overthrown.
s) Why is Antony's speech more effective?
ANS: Antony's speech is more effective because he
skillfully uses rhetoric and emotional appeal to sway the crowd's emotions. He
cleverly uses irony and sarcasm to criticize the conspirators while praising
Caesar, leading the citizens to question the motives of the conspirators.
Antony's speech incites the crowd
t) At the end of the scene what is the fate of Brutus and Cassius?
ANS: At
the end of the scene, Brutus and Cassius have been forced to flee from Rome due
to the uproar caused by Antony's speech at Caesar's funeral. The citizens of
Rome, incited by Antony's powerful oration and convinced of the righteousness
of Caesar's cause, have turned against the conspirators. They are in great
danger as the enraged mob seeks revenge for the assassination of Caesar. Brutus
and Cassius must escape from the city to save their lives and regroup with
their supporters to face the unfolding consequences of their actions.
Julius Caesar and Antony reveal something about their character in
their words and actions. We also learn about them from what other people say.
Can you pick out the words that describe them from the bracket given below?
Also, pick out lines from the play to illustrate your choice.
(Superstitious, Arrogant, Loyal, clever,
overconfident, manipulative , good , orator , ambitious, brave, great, conqueror,
generous, fearless, loves, flattery, firm, shrewd, crafty)
Ans:
Julius Caesar:
Ambitious - "I love the name
of honor more than I fear death." (Act 1, Scene 2)
Arrogant - "Yond Cassius has
a lean and hungry look; He thinks too much: such men are dangerous." (Act
1, Scene 2)
Brave - "Cowards die many
times before their deaths; The valiant never taste of death but once."
(Act 2, Scene 2)
Overconfident - "Danger knows
full well that Caesar is more dangerous than he." (Act 2, Scene 2)
Superstitious - "Calpurnia
here, my wife, stays me at home: She dreamt tonight she saw my statue."
(Act 2, Scene 2)
Mark Antony:
Loyal - "This was the
noblest Roman of them all." (Act 5, Scene 5)
Clever - "O pardon me, thou
bleeding piece of earth, That I am meek and gentle with these butchers."
(Act 3, Scene 1)
Manipulative - "Friends,
Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears; I come to bury Caesar, not to praise
him." (Act 3, Scene 2)
Good Orator - Antony's entire
funeral speech in Act 3, Scene 2, showcases his skills as an orator and his
ability to manipulate the crowd.
Generous
- "I do beseech you, if you bear me hard, Now, whilst your purpled hands
do reek and smoke, Fulfil your pleasure." (Act 3, Scene 1)
Questions for Further Study :
Given below are some questions
based on reading of the play 'Julius Caesar'. These questions are not for
testing in the Exam. These are for a deeper understanding of the play and the
characters.
a) Why was the conspiracy to assassinate Julius Caesar hatched?
Ans: The conspiracy to
assassinate Julius Caesar was hatched because some of the senators and
prominent figures in Rome believed that Caesar's growing power and ambition
posed a threat to the Roman Republic. They feared that he would become a tyrant
and undermine the traditional Roman values of democracy and the Senate's
authority. The conspirators saw themselves as defenders of the Republic and
believed that killing Caesar was necessary to preserve the Roman way of life.
b) Was Caesar really ambitious? Find evidence from the play to support
your answer.
Ans: The question of whether
Caesar was truly ambitious is open to interpretation. In the play, there is no
direct evidence of Caesar displaying excessive ambition or seeking absolute
power. However, characters like Cassius and Brutus use Caesar's popularity and
the public's adoration of him as evidence of his ambition. Caesar's refusal to
accept the crown three times in the public square can be seen as evidence that
he did not seek kingship. Still, the interpretation of his ambition remains a
subject of debate.
c) What was Cassius' motive for murdering Julius Caesar?
Ans: Cassius' motive for murdering Julius Caesar
was driven by envy, jealousy, and a desire for personal gain. Cassius was a
skilled manipulator and resented Caesar's rise to power. He believed that
Caesar was no better than himself and felt that he deserved the same level of
respect and authority. Cassius also feared that Caesar's increasing power would
diminish his own influence and status in Rome. His jealousy and ambition fueled
the conspiracy.
d) Why was it essential for the conspirators to include Brutus in the
conspiracy?
Ans: It was essential for the
conspirators to include Brutus in the conspiracy because he was widely
respected and admired by the Roman people. Brutus was known for his honor,
nobility, and reputation for putting the good of Rome above personal interests.
By having Brutus on their side, the conspirators believed they could justify
their actions as being for the greater good of Rome. Additionally, Brutus'
involvement lent credibility to the plot and helped to sway public opinion.
e) What were the mistakes made by Brutus that led to the failure of the
conspiracy?
Ans: Some of the mistakes made by Brutus that led
to the failure of the conspiracy include:
Underestimating Antony: Brutus
allowed Antony to speak at Caesar's funeral, giving him an opportunity to turn
public opinion against the conspirators.
Failing to kill Antony: The
conspirators decided not to eliminate Antony along with Caesar, which proved to
be a significant oversight as Antony later became a powerful adversary.
Poor timing: The conspirators
acted too hastily, giving Caesar little time to reconsider his plans or giving
the public time to understand their motives.
Not rallying public support:
While the conspirators believed they were acting in the best interest of Rome,
they did not effectively communicate their reasons to the public, allowing
Antony to manipulate the mob against them.
f) Comment on Caesar's friendship with Antony.
Ans: Caesar's friendship with
Antony was initially strong, and Caesar showed a great deal of trust and
affection for him. Antony was loyal and devoted to Caesar, and the latter
seemed to value and appreciate this loyalty. However, their friendship becomes
strained after Caesar's assassination, as Antony becomes determined to avenge
his death and takes on a more assertive and vengeful role.
g) Write a brief character sketch of Antony.
Ans: Antony is a complex
character in the play. He is shown to be a skilled orator, manipulative,
ambitious, and fiercely loyal to Caesar. After Caesar's death, Antony's
manipulative nature comes to the forefront when he uses his speech at the
funeral to turn the public against the conspirators and incite them to riot. He
is clever in using emotional appeals and skillful rhetoric to sway the mob's
sentiments. Ultimately, Antony's ambition for power and revenge leads to the
downfall of the conspirators.
h) What is the role of Julius Caesar's ghost in the play, Julius
Caesar?
Ans: The role of Julius Caesar's
ghost in the play is to serve as a haunting and vengeful presence. The ghost
appears to Brutus, foreshadowing his impending defeat and death. It symbolizes
the guilt and internal conflict that haunts Brutus, as he starts to realize the
consequences of his actions. The appearance of the ghost adds a supernatural
element to the play and heightens the sense of tragedy.
i) Why does Antony call Brutus 'the noblest Roman of them all'?
Ans: Antony calls Brutus 'the
noblest Roman of them all' in Act 5, Scene 5, after Brutus dies. Antony
acknowledges that although they were on opposite sides and he fought against
Brutus, he recognizes Brutus' integrity and noble intentions in the conspiracy.
This statement highlights the complex nature of the characters and the genuine
respect Antony had for Brutus, despite their differences.
j) How do Brutus and Cassius meet their end?
Ans:
Brutus and Cassius meet their end during the Battle of Philippi. Cassius
commits suicide after mistakenly believing that his ally Titinius has been
captured by the enemy. He asks Pindarus, his servant, to help him take his own
life. Later, Brutus learns of Cassius' death and decides to commit suicide as
well. With the help of his servant Strato, Brutus dies by running into his own
sword, choosing an honorable death over being captured and humiliated by the
enemy.
A reporter covers the event of the assassination of Julius Caesar in
the senate giving graphic details and a catchy headline. Write the newspaper
report in about 200 words.
Graphic Assassination in the Senate - "Et Tu, Brute?"
Rome, Ides of March - In a
shocking turn of events, Julius Caesar, the great Roman general and statesman,
met a gruesome end yesterday in the Senate House. The historic Senate session,
convened to debate the future of the Roman Republic, took a dark and
treacherous turn as a group of senators, led by Brutus and Cassius, launched a
brutal assassination plot against their own leader.
As the Senate proceedings began,
a sense of unease permeated the air. Caesar, seemingly heedless of the ominous
warnings, took his seat amidst a crowd of senators, including his closest ally,
Mark Antony. As the debate ensued, a flurry of concealed daggers was unleashed
upon the unsuspecting Caesar. In a heart-wrenching betrayal, even Brutus, whom
Caesar trusted as a loyal friend, joined in the assault, uttering the infamous
words, "Et tu, Brute?" - "Even you, Brutus?"
The scene that unfolded was
nothing short of a tragic spectacle. The once-powerful Caesar, known for his
indomitable spirit and military triumphs, now lay lifeless on the Senate floor,
his crimson blood staining the marble in stark contrast to his once-glorious
reign.
Mark Antony, who witnessed the
heinous act, was quick to flee the scene, knowing that he might be the next
target. The conspirators, in a bid to justify their act, addressed the Roman
citizens, proclaiming their deed as an act of preserving the Republic. However,
the emotional and fickle mob remained unconvinced, and their anger simmered,
awaiting the spark that would ignite further unrest.
The repercussions of this dark
day remain uncertain. Rome mourns the loss of a great leader, and the question
of who will fill the void left by Caesar's untimely demise looms large. The
fate of the Republic now hangs in the balance, and the world watches with bated
breath as the turbulent aftermath unfolds.
