Julius Caesar ACT 2 SCENE 1 HARD
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Questions and Answers

What condition does Ligarius claim to be in at the beginning of the exchange?

  • He has completely discarded his illness. (correct)
  • He is sick but ready to take action.
  • He is weak and unable to act.
  • He is too ill to engage in discussions.

What does Brutus imply about the nature of the task he has for Ligarius?

  • It will restore health to those who are sick. (correct)
  • It will bring great honor to Rome.
  • It is a secret that cannot be revealed.
  • It requires the participation of many others.

What rhetorical device is primarily used when Ligarius refers to Brutus as an 'exorcist'?

  • Hyperbole
  • Metaphor (correct)
  • Personification
  • Simile

Which phrase indicates that Ligarius is eager despite not knowing the details of the task?

<p>With a heart new-fired I follow you (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus mean when he says, 'But are not some whole that we must make sick?'

<p>Making others sick serves a greater purpose. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus question about Caesar's potential to become a dangerous ruler?

<p>How his nature might change if crowned. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What analogy does Brutus use to illustrate the danger posed by Caesar?

<p>A serpent's egg that could become dangerous. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the letter delivered by Lucius urge Brutus to do?

<p>To awaken and reflect on his position. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does Brutus believe it is necessary to consider killing Caesar?

<p>To prevent Caesar's potential tyranny. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus suggest about ambition and its relationship to greatness?

<p>Greatness often diminishes humility. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus mean by 'the abuse of greatness'?

<p>Becoming corrupt after achieving success. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Lucius find when he enters with a paper for Brutus?

<p>A letter sealed and left in Brutus' study. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus express his internal conflict regarding Caesar?

<p>He rationalizes the need for Caesar’s death for Rome's sake. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus suggest about Antony's loyalty to Caesar when he states, "If he love Caesar, all that he can do is to himself — take thought and die for Caesar"?

<p>Antony's love will lead him to take extreme actions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What superstitions does Decius Brutus refer to that might keep Caesar from the Capitol?

<p>Fear of the omens. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which character expresses skepticism about whether Caesar will come forth that day?

<p>Cassius (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Brutus urges his friends to behave in a certain way when he says, "Let not our looks put on our purposes." What does this imply?

<p>They should hide their true feelings. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Portia imply about Brutus's emotional state when she observes he has been walking about, musing and sighing?

<p>Brutus is hiding a burdened mind. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What argument does Portia use to press Brutus for his secrets?

<p>Their marital vows and closeness. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Portia demonstrate her strength of character?

<p>By wounding herself to prove her loyalty. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What metaphor does Decius use to illustrate Antony's vanity?

<p>Unicorns may be betrayed with trees. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus request from Portia as she kneels before him?

<p>To be patient and wait for his counsel. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which character suggests that they will fetch Caesar from his home?

<p>Cassius (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What reason does Portia give for needing to know Brutus's secrets?

<p>It is her right as his wife. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is Brutus’s primary concern throughout the dialogue?

<p>The wellbeing and unity of Rome. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What key characteristic of Brutus does Portia question when she challenges him about his hidden problems?

<p>His masculinity and strength. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the clock striking three during the conversation?

<p>It serves as a reminder of the urgency of their plans. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus suggest about the motivations for their conspiracy?

<p>The only motivation needed is the cause itself. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus view the act of killing Caesar?

<p>As a bloody massacre that should be avoided. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of their conspiracy does Brutus wish to avoid?

<p>Being labeled as murderers rather than purgers. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What reason does Cassius give for wanting to include Cicero in the conspiracy?

<p>His public image will lend weight to their actions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus compare the interim before a dreadful act to?

<p>A vivid dream. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do the conspirators discuss regarding Mark Antony's role?

<p>He is a threat that needs to be eliminated. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way does Brutus suggest they portray their actions?

<p>As an honorable purge. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus imply about fear and moral integrity?

<p>Moral integrity is paramount over fear. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the conspirators react to the idea of including Cicero?

<p>Brutus strongly opposes including him. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Lucius report to Brutus upon entering?

<p>That men are knocking at the door. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What metaphor does Brutus employ to describe conspiracy?

<p>It wears a mask of smiles and friendliness. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What state does Brutus refer to when discussing human nature and conspiracy?

<p>A kingdom prone to insurrection. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Cassius characterize the conspirators' approach to Caesar?

<p>Bold and courageous. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus imply about the consequences of breaking a promise?

<p>It tarnishes one's honor. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Ligarius declare about his condition when he wishes to join Brutus?

<p>Ligarius claims he is not sick if Brutus has an honorable task for him.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Ligarius’s response to Brutus reflect loyalty and ambition?

<p>Ligarius shows immediate loyalty by disregarding his sickness in favor of following Brutus to undertake an unclear task.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What implication does Brutus’s statement about making some whole while making others sick carry?

<p>Brutus suggests that in their conspiracy, they must both heal the state and harm those who threaten it.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Ligarius's eagerness to follow Brutus signify about his character?

<p>Ligarius's eagerness indicates his deep sense of loyalty and commitment to the cause of honor.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the tone of the dialogue between Brutus and Ligarius regarding the task at hand.

<p>The tone is both urgent and determined, reflecting the gravity of their undertaking and the hope of achieving honor.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus mean by saying that ambition is like a ladder?

<p>Brutus implies that ambition helps individuals rise to power, but once they achieve greatness, they often look down on those below them.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus justify the need to kill Caesar before he poses a threat?

<p>Brutus likens Caesar to a 'serpent's egg' that must be killed before it hatches and becomes dangerous.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What internal conflict does Brutus reveal regarding his feelings towards Caesar?

<p>Brutus admits he has no personal reason to hate Caesar, but feels compelled to act for the greater good of Rome.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way does the letter Lucius delivers serve as a catalyst for Brutus's actions?

<p>The letter urges Brutus to awaken and take action for Rome, reinforcing his motivations against Caesar.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus's statement that 'the abuse of greatness is when it disjoins remorse from power' suggest about his views on leadership?

<p>It suggests that he believes true leaders should remain accountable and compassionate, not detached and ruthless.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus's reaction to the news about the Ides of March imply about his understanding of fate?

<p>Brutus appears unaware of the significance of the Ides of March, which foreshadows disaster for Caesar.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus's view of Caesar’s potential reign relate to the theme of power and morality?

<p>Brutus believes unchecked power led to moral decay in leaders, necessitating the prevention of Caesar's ascent.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'Awake, and see thyself!' in the letter to Brutus imply about self-awareness and action?

<p>It suggests the necessity for Brutus to confront his own values and responsibilities in order to take decisive action.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus imply about Antony's abilities following Caesar's assassination?

<p>Brutus suggests that Antony will be powerless without Caesar, as his love for Caesar would lead him to self-destruct.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is Cassius's concern regarding Antony's potential actions?

<p>Cassius fears that Antony's love for Caesar makes him a threat, as he might take revenge.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Decius Brutus plan to influence Caesar's decision to go to the Capitol?

<p>Decius Brutus states he can sway Caesar by appealing to his vanity and love of flattery.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What time do the conspirators decide must pass before they fetch Caesar?

<p>They agree that they must wait until the eighth hour.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Portia accuse Brutus of, highlighting her concern for his well-being?

<p>Portia accuses Brutus of hiding his thoughts and suffering from an inner turmoil.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant act does Portia perform to demonstrate her strength and commitment?

<p>Portia wounds herself in the thigh to prove her resilience and ability to bear pain.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus mean when he states, 'Render me worthy of this noble wife'?

<p>Brutus expresses gratitude and recognition of Portia's strength and loyalty.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What metaphor does Brutus use when discussing conspiracy and its implications for human nature?

<p>Brutus compares conspiracy to an act that can corrupt the moral integrity of individuals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus suggest they should approach their mission to assassinate Caesar?

<p>Brutus insists they must appear calm and composed, like 'Roman actors' playing their parts.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the nature of Brutus's inner conflict as depicted in his conversation with Portia?

<p>Brutus struggles with guilt and the weight of their conspiracy against Caesar.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Portia highlight about her identity in relation to Brutus when pleading for his secrets?

<p>Portia emphasizes her status as Brutus's wife and demands that he trust her with his inner thoughts.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do the conspirators fear about Caesar's recent behavior and actions?

<p>They fear that Caesar's growing superstition may prevent him from coming to the Capitol.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What rationale does Brutus provide for the conspiracy against Caesar?

<p>Brutus believes that the ambition displayed by Caesar poses a threat to the Republic's freedom.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the theme of loyalty play in the interactions between Brutus and Portia?

<p>Loyalty emerges as a central theme, with Portia demanding openness and Brutus grappling with his secrets.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What internal conflict does Brutus express in regard to his thoughts about Caesar?

<p>Brutus struggles with the fear that Caesar's potential rise to power could lead to tyranny, despite his personal affection for him.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus differentiate between the act of killing Caesar and the implications of slaughter?

<p>Brutus advocates for killing Caesar as a necessary sacrifice rather than a brutal act, emphasizing a noble purpose rather than bloodlust.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does Brutus reject the idea of taking an oath among the conspirators?

<p>Brutus believes their shared commitment to the cause should be strong enough without formal oaths, as it reveals their integrity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way does Brutus's view of conspiracies reflect his character?

<p>Brutus sees conspiracies as fundamentally dishonorable and prefers honesty and openness in their actions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the conspirators justify their need to include Antony in their plans?

<p>The conspirators fear that Antony's loyalty to Caesar may pose a threat if he is allowed to survive after Caesar's death.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What rationale does Cassius provide for wanting to enlist Cicero in their conspiracy?

<p>Cassius believes Cicero’s reputation and wisdom would lend credibility to their plan and garner public support.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What metaphor does Brutus use to convey the nature of the conspiracy?

<p>Brutus compares the conspiracy to a 'little kingdom' suffering from insurrection, indicating the turmoil within human nature.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus perceive the act of killing Caesar in relation to civic duty?

<p>Brutus views the killing of Caesar as a necessary action to protect Rome from tyranny, aligning personal sacrifice with public good.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What concerns does Brutus express about their method of carrying out the assassination?

<p>Brutus worries that their approach should resemble a noble sacrifice rather than a brutal murder, avoiding unnecessary violence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus mean by saying, 'If these be motives weak, break off betimes'?

<p>Brutus suggests that if their resolve isn't strong enough to justify their actions, they should abandon their conspiracy immediately.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus characterize the nature of their cause against Caesar?

<p>Brutus asserts that their cause is noble and driven by patriotism, not hatred or envy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Brutus's call for a collective agreement without oaths among the conspirators?

<p>Brutus's insistence on trust without oaths suggests a deep-rooted belief in the integrity of their motives and the seriousness of their cause.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what manner does Brutus confront the question of Cicero's involvement?

<p>Brutus dismisses the idea of involving Cicero, believing he would not follow a course initiated by others.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Cassius’s statement 'we are too bold upon your rest' imply about their relationship with Brutus?

<p>Cassius’s comment reflects both admiration for Brutus and accountability since they are intruding upon his private contemplation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Brutus's Motivation

Brutus is driven to assassinate Caesar not for personal gain, but for the greater good of Rome. He believes Caesar's potential for tyranny threatens Rome's freedom.

Caesar's Potential for Tyranny

Brutus believes Caesar's ambition could lead him to become a tyrant and seize power.

The Ides of March

A significant date in the Roman calendar, specifically March 15th.

The Letter's Message

The letter urges Brutus to act against Caesar to save Rome.

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Brutus's Contemplation

Brutus reflects on the potential danger of unchecked power, particularly in Caesar.

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Upmost Round

The highest level of success or attainment.

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Tarquin's Overthrow

Brutus recalls the removal of the tyrannical King Tarquin from Rome, using it as a parallel to his own desired action.

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Political Ambition

The pursuit of power and influence in political life.

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What is Ligarius's condition?

Ligarius is described as being sick and feeble at the start of the scene.

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How does Brutus's talk affect Ligarius?

Brutus's words inspire Ligarius to overcome his illness and join in the conspiracy against Caesar.

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What is Brutus's mission?

Brutus describes the task as something that will make sick people healthy.

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What is Ligarius's response to Brutus's mission?

Ligarius is eager to participate even without knowing the details, as long as Brutus leads.

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What does Ligarius's reaction reveal about him?

Ligarius is loyal and committed to Brutus, even if he doesn't fully understand the situation.

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Brutus's Promise to Rome

Brutus vows to Rome that if his actions result in redress, Rome will receive complete fulfillment of its petition.

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Conspiracy's Nighttime Nature

The conspirators consider that a conspiracy is most blatant, powerful, and effective at night, where the darkness hides their evil intentions.

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Conspirators' Entrance

The conspirators enter in a concealed manner, their faces obscured to protect their identities.

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Brutus's Doubt about the Men

Brutus expresses uncertainty about the other conspirators, despite being greeted with respect and a plea to be valued in the conspiracy.

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Conspirators' Public Image

The conspirators desire to portray themselves as honorable leaders, burying their actions in the reverence of Cicero's wisdom.

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Cicero's Role

Brutus opposes including Cicero in the conspiracy, believing he might not actively participate.

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Antony's Role

The conspirators recognize Antony's influence and popularity with Caesar, deeming it necessary to eliminate him alongside Caesar.

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Brutus's Idea of Murder and Sacrifice

Brutus argues against a brutal killing, envisioning a ritualistic sacrifice aligned with high purpose.

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Brutus's Oath-lessness

Brutus rejects a solemn oath, implying that the conspirators' shared determination and commitment are sufficient motivation.

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Motivation for the Conspiracy

Brutus and the conspirators are motivated by a sense of injustice, the abuse of power of Caesar, and the belief that their actions will inspire the people to fight for justice.

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Caesar's Death & Public Perception

The conspirators plan to present their actions as a purging of tyranny, masking their violence in the appearance of purification.

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Brutus's Sleeplessness

Brutus describes his constant wakefulness as a direct result of his involvement with the plot against Caesar.

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Cassius's Whetted Ambition

Cassius is responsible for inciting Brutus's anger and ambition against Caesar.

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Brutus's Uncertainty

Brutus expresses doubt and hesitancy about his role in the conspiracy, emphasizing that these doubts are only natural.

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Conspiracy's Justification

Brutus believes that the conspirators' motives are just and necessary.

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Conspirators' Shared Morality

Brutus and the conspirators rely on their shared honor and determination for the conspiracy's success, not oaths.

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Caesar's Love

The deep affection Mark Antony holds for Caesar, which Brutus fears could drive Antony to act against him.

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Antony's Character

Antony is described as possessing a carefree personality, enjoying sports, company, and wildness.

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Caesar's Superstition

Caesar has recently become more superstitious, paying attention to omens and dreams, which could influence his actions.

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Swaying Caesar

Decius Brutus believes he can manipulate Caesar by flattery and appealing to his curiosity about strange creatures and tricks.

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The Eighth Hour

The conspirators plan to meet at the Capitol by the eighth hour (around noon) to assassinate Caesar.

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Ligarius's Discontent

Caius Ligarius dislikes Caesar because of a past incident where Caesar criticized his support for Pompey.

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Brutus's Appearance

Brutus wants the conspirators to appear cheerful and carefree, hiding their true intentions.

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Brutus's Sleepless Night

Brutus has had a sleepless night, troubled by thoughts and anxieties that prevent him from resting.

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Portia's Concern

Portia notices Brutus's strange behavior, including sleeplessness, restlessness, and reluctance to share his worries with her.

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Portia's Strength

Portia proves her strength by showing her husband that she is mentally and physically resilient, having self-inflicted a wound.

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Marital Trust

Portia believes she has a right to know her husband's secrets because they are married and share a deep bond of trust and love.

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Secret Meetings

Portia observes a few men meet secretly with Brutus, suggesting a clandestine plan.

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Brutus's Vulnerability

Brutus reveals his true feelings and struggles, particularly his concern for Antony, to Portia, showing his weakness for the first time.

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Characters' Motives

The play explores the motivations of key characters, highlighting the complexities of political ambition, loyalty, and conflict.

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Thematic Exploration

The text explores themes like ambition, betrayal, honor, and justice, providing insights into human nature and the complexities of power.

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Political Intrigue

The play presents a captivating narrative of political intrigue, power struggles, and the consequences of decisions.

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Dramatic Irony

The audience is aware of events and plans that certain characters are unaware of, creating dramatic tension and suspense.

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Caesar's Potential Tyranny

Brutus fears that Caesar's desire for power could turn him into a tyrant, similar to the Roman king Tarquin who was overthrown. Brutus hopes to prevent this by killing Caesar.

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Who is Ligarius?

Ligarius is a sick man who is described as feeble and has a hard time speaking. He is a supporter of Brutus.

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What motivates Ligarius to join Brutus?

Brutus's words inspire Ligarius to overcome his illness and join in the conspiracy against Caesar. He is motivated by Brutus's leadership and the belief that it is an honorable cause.

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Brutus's Promise

Brutus assures Rome that if his actions result in justice, Rome will receive everything it desires.

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Concealed Conspirators

The conspirators enter hidden, their faces obscured to protect their identities.

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Brutus's Doubt

Despite being welcomed by the conspirators, Brutus questions whether they are truly honorable.

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Cicero's Exclusion

Brutus believes Cicero won't actively participate in the conspiracy, so they exclude him.

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Antony's Threat

The conspirators worry about Antony's power and influence, deciding to eliminate him alongside Caesar.

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Brutus on Murder

Brutus argues for a ritualistic killing, not a brutal one, wanting to appear as sacrificers, not butchers.

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Brutal vs. Righteous

Brutus emphasizes the importance of appearing righteous in the eyes of the public, not like murderers.

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Brutus's Wakefulness

Brutus is unable to sleep due to the weight of his involvement in the plot against Caesar.

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Cassius's Influence

Cassius played a key role in igniting Brutus's anger and ambition against Caesar.

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The Conspiracy's Justification

Brutus believes the conspirators act with just and necessary motives, defending Rome from tyranny.

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The Oath of Honor

The conspirators' shared honor and commitment bind them more than any sworn oath.

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Antony's Love for Caesar

Brutus is concerned about Antony's deep affection for Caesar, fearing it could lead to revenge.

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Antony's Loyalty

Mark Antony is fiercely loyal to Caesar. Brutus fears this loyalty may lead Antony to seek revenge for Caesar's death.

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Flattery and Deception

Decius Brutus believes he can manipulate Caesar by appealing to his curiosity and flattering him.

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Study Notes

Brutus's Internal Conflict and Preparations

  • Brutus wrestles with the moral dilemmas of assassinating Caesar, questioning the implications of ambition and greatness.
  • He sees the potential danger inherent in Caesar's attaining supreme power and fears its corrupting influence on character.
  • Brutus recognizes the common human tendency of those gaining power to abandon humility.
  • He views Caesar's potential ascent as a threat to Rome's freedoms and republics.
  • Brutus's decision to participate in the conspiracy is driven by a concern for Rome's well-being and the preservation of its republican ideals.
  • He views the assassination as a necessary measure to prevent a potential tyranny or a despotic rule.
  • Brutus is conflicted by the potentially violent nature of his actions in contrast to his own noble intentions.
  • He struggles with the ethical necessity for the assassination.

Discovery of a Letter and Scheduling

  • Brutus discovers a letter urging him to awake and act for the good of Rome.
  • He meticulously examines the political ramifications of potential action.
  • He prioritizes the upcoming Ides of March.
  • He instructs Lucius to check the calendar to confirm the date.

Confrontation with the Conspirators

  • Brutus faces the conspirators, including Cassius, Casca, Decius Brutus, Cinna, and Metellus Cimber.
  • Brutus is greeted by the conspirators, who praise him and emphasize his importance to the Romans.
  • Brutus welcomes the conspirators and learns of their shared concern for Caesar's growing power.
  • Brutus voices his resistance to taking oaths for the conspiracy, underscoring the moral strength of his convictions.
  • He establishes a framework for their plans, emphasizing their commitment to serving Rome, not personal gain, rather than oaths.
  • Brutus seeks to clarify the purpose of their actions and the necessity of their undertaking.
  • The conspirators argue for including Cicero, recognizing his influence.
  • Brutus argues for the removal of Mark Antony to prevent any future conflict.
  • The group establishes a plan to assassinate Caesar by the 8th hour.
  • Brutus reminds the conspirators of their responsibility to act swiftly, effectively, and precisely to avoid any misunderstandings or blame.

Brutus's Concerns and Portia's Intervention

  • Brutus expresses personal anxieties regarding the conspiracy and its moral implications.
  • Brutus's wife, Portia, discovers his distress.
  • Portia, Cato's daughter, challenges him about his concerns, insisting on knowing the source of his grief.
  • Brutus hesitates at first but eventually opens up to Portia, revealing his inner turmoil.
  • Portia, though distressed by Brutus's secret, demonstrates her strength and devotion by testing her own resilience and courage.
  • This scene highlights the private anxieties and moral considerations preceding the planned assassination.

Brutus's Final Preparations and Meeting with Ligarius

  • The conspirators disperse, awaiting Caesar's arrival at the Capitol.
  • Portia, in a private confrontation, presses Brutus on the nature of his suffering.
  • Brutus expresses his worry that their actions could tarnish their reputation as morally upright people.
  • Brutus encounters Ligarius, who is severely ill, and their meeting validates the depth of Brutus's devotion and commitment to the noble causes.
  • Brutus assures Ligarius of the nobility of their cause and encourages him to participate.

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Explore Brutus's internal struggles as he contemplates the assassination of Caesar. This quiz delves into the themes of ambition, morality, and the implications of power in Shakespeare's 'Julius Caesar'. Test your understanding of Brutus's motivations and the ethical dilemmas he faces.

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