Shakespeare's Julius Caesar Quiz

What attitude do Flavius and Murellus express towards the celebration of Caesar's triumph?

What action does Flavius suggest to the commoners regarding their feelings after seeing Caesar's chariot?

What is the significance of Flavius's statement about disrobing the images of Caesar?

What does Flavius mean by 'These growing feathers plucked from Caesar’s wing'?

What do the actions of Flavius and Murellus reveal about their character?

What trade does the Cobbler claim to follow?

What does Murellus accuse the commoners of being?

Why does the Cobbler say he is leading men about the streets?

What does Murellus ask about the tributes bringing home?

How does the Cobbler describe his craftsmanship when mending shoes?

What is the tone of Murellus when he addresses the commoners?

What does Flavius imply about the idle creatures he addresses?

What does the Cobbler mean when he says he can 'mend' Murellus?

Character Interactions

Flavius confronts commoners for celebrating Caesar's triumph, questioning their right to be idle on a laboring day.
Murellus engages with a carpenter and a cobbler, highlighting the absurdity of their festive attire given their trades.

The Tradesmen's Roles

The carpenter declares his profession but is questioned about his tools and clothing.
The cobbler reveals he mends shoes, humorously claiming he is a "surgeon to old shoes," emphasizing his trade's importance.

Themes of Loyalty and Betrayal

Murellus challenges the commoners' loyalty to Caesar, contrasting it with their past support for Pompey.
He laments their forgetfulness of Pompey's past glories, accusing them of ingratitude and superficiality in celebrating Caesar.

Imagery and Language

Murellus employs vivid imagery, recalling how the commoners once fervently celebrated Pompey, creating a stark contrast to their current adoration of Caesar.
The metaphor of the Tiber River symbolizes the strong emotions and historical context behind the celebration and its implications.

Call to Action and Symbolism

Flavius directs the commoners to mourn Pompey and gather their tears, invoking the gods to punish their ingratitude.
The act of disrobing images of Caesar symbolizes a rejection of his authority and the attempts to diminish his power.

Foreshadowing and Political Commentary

Flavius and Murellus plot against Caesar’s rising power, foreshadowing conflict and tension in Rome.
The dialogue reflects the political unrest and the dynamics of power, illustrating the fickleness of public opinion.

The conversation emphasizes class distinctions; the commoners, represented by the carpenter and cobbler, are easily swayed and lack a strong political voice.
Flavius and Murellus, as patricians, represent the elite’s disdain for the masses and their manipulation of public sentiment.

Test your knowledge of Act 1, Scene 1 from Shakespeare's 'Julius Caesar'. This scene introduces key characters and discusses the significance of the holiday in Roman society. Discover the professions mentioned and their implications in the play.