Julius Caesar: ACT 4 SCENE 3 HARD

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Questions and Answers

What accusation does Cassius make against Brutus regarding Lucius Pella?

Brutus accused him of being corrupt.

Brutus condemned him for not supporting Rome.

Brutus failed to defend him in front of their soldiers.

Brutus wrongly condemned him for taking bribes. (correct)

What metaphor does Brutus use to illustrate his disdain for corruption?

He likens corrupt men to thieves in the night.

He would prefer to be a beggar than to act corruptly.

He would rather be a lion than a corrupt politician.

He compares himself to a dog baying at the moon. (correct)

What does Brutus imply about Cassius's character through his accusation of an 'itching palm'?

Cassius is generous with his wealth.

Cassius is greedy and accepting bribes. (correct)

Cassius is poor and in need of money.

Cassius values honor above all else.

What emotional state does Brutus display towards Cassius during their argument?

Frustration and anger. Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus view the act of taking bribes in the context of their larger moral struggle?

As a fundamental betrayal of their cause. Signup and view all the answers

What does Cassius argue concerning his experience as a soldier compared to Brutus?

Cassius suggests he is more skilled and experienced. Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus accuse Cassius of being unable to control during their argument?

His emotions and pride. Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus ultimately express a desire to learn from Cassius?

To better understand the art of war. Signup and view all the answers

What does Cassius express he would prefer to do rather than obtain money through vile means?

Coin his heart and drop his blood for drachmas Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus feel about Cassius's threats?

He dismisses them as inconsequential. Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus imply by saying he does not like Cassius's faults?

He values honesty in friendship. Signup and view all the answers

What does Cassius suggest is his state of mind when he talks about being 'aweary of the world'?

He is tired and wants to give up. Signup and view all the answers

What tragic news does Brutus deliver to Cassius about Portia?

She has died by swallowing fire. Signup and view all the answers

What does Cassius doubt about Brutus's feelings towards him?

Cassius doubts Brutus loves him. Signup and view all the answers

What event does Messala inform Brutus about concerning Octavius and Mark Antony?

They are gathering a force against them. Signup and view all the answers

What does Cassius mean by saying he denied Brutus money?

He did not want to involve Brutus in financial matters. Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus respond to Cassius's accusation of wrongdoing?

He defends himself passionately. Signup and view all the answers

What implication does Cassius's reference to his dagger convey?

He is contemplating suicide. Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus suggest about Cassius's temperament?

He has become too emotional and irrational. Signup and view all the answers

What does Cassius mean by 'set in a note-book, learn'd, and conn'd by rote'?

He feels his flaws are being exaggerated. Signup and view all the answers

What final action does Brutus take to resolve the conflict with Cassius?

He offers Cassius a drink of wine. Signup and view all the answers

What is Brutus's reaction to the news of Portia's death?

He resolves to endure the pain of her death. Signup and view all the answers

What strategy does Cassius propose regarding their approach to the enemy?

To wait for the enemy to come to them. Signup and view all the answers

Which philosophical view does Brutus express when he talks about the 'tide in the affairs of men'?

Timing is crucial for success. Signup and view all the answers

What request does Brutus make of Lucius at the end of the passage?

To play a song on his instrument. Signup and view all the answers

What does the ghost of Caesar tell Brutus?

He will meet him at the battlefield. Signup and view all the answers

What sentiment does Cassius express toward the end of the conversation?

He wishes for their souls to remain united. Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus characterize their current military situation?

They are at their peak and ready for action. Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus mean by 'If at Philippi we do face him there'?

They should prepare for direct confrontation. Signup and view all the answers

What ultimately motivates Brutus's decision to march to Philippi?

He fears the enemy will gain strength if they wait. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Brutus's character is revealed through his interaction with Lucius?

He is caring and considerate. Signup and view all the answers

What theme is suggested by the phrase 'O murderous slumber'?

The dangers of sleep and vulnerability. Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus address the concept of fate and opportunity?

Opportunities must be seized when they arise. Signup and view all the answers

What does the conversation indicate about Brutus and Cassius's relationship?

They have underlying tensions but respect each other. Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus's mention of time suggest about his view of leadership?

Strategic timing is crucial for effective leadership. Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus assert about the moral implications of taking bribes, specifically in relation to their past actions?

Brutus asserts that they should not contaminate their hands with bribes, highlighting that their actions against Julius Caesar were for justice, not for personal gain. Signup and view all the answers

How does Cassius react to Brutus's accusations of corruption, and what does this reveal about his character?

Cassius becomes defensive, challenging Brutus’s authority and asserting his experience as a soldier, which reflects his pride and unwillingness to accept criticism. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does Brutus's rhetoric highlight his sense of honor in contrast to Cassius's accusations?

Brutus emphasizes that true Romans, like himself, should not stoop to base actions such as taking bribes, thereby positioning his integrity against Cassius's greed. Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus mean when he refers to Cassius as 'a slight man' during their heated argument?

Brutus uses 'slight man' to belittle Cassius, implying that he is not significant enough to intimidate or control him. Signup and view all the answers

How does the exchange between Brutus and Cassius reveal themes of friendship and rivalry?

The argument exposes their deep-seated friendship marred by rivalry, where personal grievances threaten their united front in battle. Signup and view all the answers

What does Cassius mean by claiming to be 'older in practice' than Brutus, and how does this reflect their differing positions?

Cassius suggests that his experience as a soldier gives him authority, contrasting with Brutus's idealistic views, revealing a clash between practicality and moral righteousness. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Brutus wishing to use Cassius 'for mirth' after their conflict?

Brutus's statement indicates a shift from anger to a more humorous perspective, suggesting a desire to reconcile while diminishing the weight of their disagreement. Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus address the concept of loyalty during his altercation with Cassius?

Brutus challenges Cassius's loyalty by accusing him of compromising their shared ideals for personal gain, thus questioning the foundation of their alliance. Signup and view all the answers

How does Cassius express his view on friendship and financial dealings with Brutus?

Cassius believes friendship should not be tainted by greed, stating he would rather give his heart than obtain money through dishonorable means. Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus mean when he states he is 'arm'd so strong in honesty'?

Brutus implies that his integrity protects him against Cassius's threats, rendering them ineffective. Signup and view all the answers

What crisis does Brutus reveal to Cassius regarding Portia?

Brutus reveals that Portia is dead, having succumbed to grief over his absence and the turmoil in Rome. Signup and view all the answers

How does Cassius react to Brutus's claim that he is angry?

Cassius is astonished that Brutus is angry, expressing disbelief that their friendship has come to such a point. Signup and view all the answers

What metaphor does Cassius use to describe his feelings of being judged by Brutus?

Cassius compares himself to a bondman whose faults are noted and scrutinized, as if he is under constant examination. Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus reveal about his own temperament after Cassius's angry outburst?

Brutus admits that he himself was also ill-tempered when he spoke sharply to Cassius. Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus communicate his feelings toward Cassius's accusation of greed?

Brutus does not deny Cassius's accusation but insists that he does not like Cassius's faults, implying that they should rise above such behavior. Signup and view all the answers

What does Cassius wish for in response to the strains on his friendship with Brutus?

Cassius expresses a longing for mutual love and reconciliation, stating he is weary of the world. Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus mean when he tells Cassius to sheath his dagger?

Brutus is urging Cassius to control his anger and not resort to violence as a means of resolving their conflict. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the 'bowl of wine' to Brutus and Cassius's conversation?

The bowl of wine symbolizes a temporary truce and a moment to bury grievances and reminiscing about their bond. Signup and view all the answers

What overarching theme does Brutus's expression of his grief and philosophical viewpoint illustrate?

Brutus's reflections reveal themes of honor, personal sacrifice, and the weight of leadership amid personal loss. Signup and view all the answers

How does Cassius react to the news of Cicero's death?

Cassius is shocked and mournful, reflecting the gravity of the political situation and the loss of a valued ally. Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus imply about his relationship with Cassius through his comments on faults?

Brutus implies that a true friend should accept each other's shortcomings, yet he feels burdened by Cassius's perceived faults. Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus's statement 'You have done that you should be sorry for' indicate about their conflict?

It suggests that Brutus believes Cassius has overstepped boundaries in their friendship, exacerbating tensions. Signup and view all the answers

What does Brutus's reaction to Portia's death reveal about his emotional resilience?

Brutus shows a mixture of sorrow and acceptance, indicating a strong emotional resilience despite deep personal loss. Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus justify his decision to march to Philippi instead of waiting for the enemy?

Brutus believes that taking the initiative is crucial, arguing that waiting may allow the enemy to regroup and grow stronger. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the ghost of Caesar appearing to Brutus?

The ghost symbolizes Brutus's guilt and foreshadows the consequences of his actions, as he is reminded of the bloodshed caused by their conspiracy. Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus's view of time influence his leadership style in the passage?

Brutus perceives time as an opportunity that must be acted upon swiftly to avoid disastrous outcomes, reflecting a proactive leadership approach. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does Brutus's relationship with Lucius reflect his character?

Brutus exhibits care and responsibility towards Lucius, indicating his compassion and sense of duty even in challenging times. Signup and view all the answers

What argument does Cassius present against marching to Philippi?

Cassius argues that it is better for the enemy to come to them, allowing them to conserve strength and prepare for battle. Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus interpret the nature of their military situation?

Brutus views their current position as a critical point where seizing the moment can lead to fortune or failure. Signup and view all the answers

What does Cassius’s reaction to Brutus's leadership style reveal about their camaraderie?

Cassius expresses concern for Brutus, indicating a deep bond but also a significant philosophical disagreement on how to approach their circumstances. Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'O murderous slumber' suggest about Brutus's state of mind?

It suggests a sense of foreboding and anxiety, reflecting his fear of vulnerability during a crucial time. Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus reconcile with the loss of Portia through his dialogue with Cassius?

Brutus implies that recognizing Portia's death allows him to channel his grief into resolve, focusing on their impending battle. Signup and view all the answers

What does the discussion about sleep indicate about Brutus's leadership demands?

Brutus's insistence on his men sleeping reflects his understanding of the need for rest amidst the pressures of leadership and preparation for battle. Signup and view all the answers

How does Brutus's use of the metaphor 'a tide in the affairs of men' reflect his views on opportunity?

He suggests that timely actions can lead to profound change, comparing opportunities to a tide that can be beneficial if seized. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does Brutus's conversation with Cassius foreshadow the events at Philippi?

Their disagreements and the urgency of their decisions foreshadow impending conflict and tension, hinting at the tragic outcomes that follow. Signup and view all the answers

What does the exchange between Brutus and his men about music signify about his character?

It signifies Brutus's gentler side and his appreciation for calm and beauty amidst chaos, reflecting the duality of his character. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Brutus and Cassius's Argument

Brutus and Cassius are arguing about a bribe that Cassius gave to Lucius Pella, a Sardian official.
Brutus is angry because he believes that Cassius is corrupt.
Cassius defends himself by saying that Brutus is also corrupt and that he is a better soldier.
Brutus is offended by Cassius's claim that he is a better soldier and tells him that he is only a "slight man".
Cassius is furious and threatens to hurt Brutus.
Brutus scolds Cassius and calls him “choleric" and “a madman”.
Brutus also says that he will no longer take Cassius seriously.
The argument escalates until Cassius threatens to kill himself.

Brutus Reflects on His Grief

Brutus reveals that his wife, Portia, has died.
Portia died by swallowing fire after she heard that Antony and Octavius had strengthened their army.
Brutus is so grief-stricken that he drinks wine to bury his sorrow.

News of the Growing Threat

Messala brings news about Octavius and Antony's growing power.
Messala says that they have put to death one hundred senators by proscription.
Brutus and Messala reveal that they do not agree on the actual number of senators killed, with Brutus's letter stating seventy senators including Cicero.

Planning for War

Brutus suggests marching to Philippi to meet Octavius and Antony, believing that they should force the enemy to attack them.
Cassius disagrees and argues that they should stay put and let the enemy approach.
Brutus rejects Cassius's argument and explains the importance of seizing the moment and taking advantage of strategic opportunities.
Brutus and Cassius eventually agree to meet the enemy at Philippi.

Brutus Encounters Caesar's Ghost

Brutus encounters the ghost of Caesar, who tells him that he will see him at Philippi.
Brutus initially believes that he is seeing an apparition due to his weary eyes.
The ghost tells Brutus that he is his "evil spirit".
Brutus is shaken by the encounter and calls for his men to wake up.
Brutus orders them to prepare for an early attack.

Key Facts

The setting of the scene is Brutus's tent.
Brutus and Cassius are generals of the Roman Republic army.
Octavius and Antony are leaders of Caesar's opposing forces.
The events occur during a time of war and political turmoil in ancient Rome.
The play's main themes of honor, power, and loyalty are explored in this scene.

Brutus and Cassius’ Argument

Brutus and Cassius argue about a bribe taken by Lucius Pella, accusing Cassius of being corrupt
Cassius insists his letters defending Pella were ignored, while Brutus accuses Cassius of taking bribes
They argue about who is a better soldier and question each other’s love and loyalty
Cassius feels betrayed by Brutus’ accusations, while Brutus believes his honesty protects him from Cassius’ threats
Brutus claims he needs money to pay his legions and reveals he would rather “coin his heart” than take bribes

The Death of Portia

Brutus reveals that his wife, Portia, has died
Portia dies as a result of the grief caused by Octavius and Antony’s growing power and Brutus’ absence
Cassius mourns her death and expresses concern for Brutus’ mental state

Planning for War

Messala reports that Octavius and Antony are marching on Philippi with a large army
Brutus and Cassius discuss their strategy for war, highlighting their weaknesses and advantages
Cassius favors waiting for the enemy, while Brutus argues for taking the offensive at Philippi

The Ghost of Caesar and Mental State

Brutus experiences supernatural occurrences as he prepares for war
Caesar's ghost appears before Brutus, predicting a future battle at Philippi
The ghost’s appearance leaves Brutus disturbed and questioning reality
Brutus’ later sleepwalking suggests a troubled mind, possibly influenced by guilt and fear

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Description

Explore the intense conflict between Brutus and Cassius as they argue over issues of corruption and loyalty in Shakespeare's play 'Julius Caesar'. This quiz also delves into Brutus's profound grief over the death of his wife, Portia, and the growing military threat posed by Octavius and Antony. Test your understanding of these pivotal moments and character dynamics.