JULIUS
CAESAR – ACT IV, SCENE III, PART 1
Extract:1-
Cassius: That you have wronged me…………….Brutus: If you did I care not.
1. Glossary
1.
Wrong'd Me - You have wronged me
2.
Doth Appear - It appears, it seems
3.
It's Clear - It is clear
4.
You Have Wronged Me - You have done me wrong
5.
Condemned and Noted Officially - Officially charged and censured
6.
Charged and Censured - Officially accused and criticized
7.
Taking Bribes - Accepting bribes
8.
Here of the Sardians - From the people of Sardis
9.
Accepting Bribes from People of Sardis - Receiving bribes from Sardians
10.
Slighted Off - Ignored, disregarded
11.
Ignored, Disregarded - Not considered, overlooked
12.
Write in Such a Case - Intervene in such a matter
13.
Intercede in Such a Matter - To mediate or intervene
14.
It is Not Meet - It is not suitable / proper
15.
Every Nice Offence - Every small or petty fault
16.
Itching Palm - Greed for money, especially bribes
17.
Sell and Mart Your Offices - Sell your political/military positions
18.
Undeservers - People who don’t deserve it
19.
Speech Were Else Your Last - Otherwise this would be your last speech (threat)
20.
Chastisement - Punishment, rebuke
21.
Hide His Head - Shrink away, not be punished
22.
The Ides of March - 15 March, date of Caesar’s assassination
23.
Base Bribes - Low, dishonourable bribes
24.
Mighty Space of Our Large Honours - The greatness of our public reputation
25.
Trash as May Be Grasped Thus - Money you can hold in your hand (insignificant
compared to honour)
26.
Bay the Moon - Howl at the moon like a dog
27.
Bay Not Me - Don’t bark at me, don’t attack me verbally
28.
Hedge Me In - Confine or limit me
29.
Endure It - Tolerate it
30.
Forget Yourself - Lose self-control or good manners
31.
Slight Man - Trivial or contemptible man
32.
Rash Choler - Hot-tempered anger
33.
Waspish - Irritable, easily angered
34.
Venom of Your Spleen - The poison of your anger (spleen = seat of anger)
35.
Bondmen - Slaves, servants
36.
Mirth - Amusement
37.
Vaunting - Boasting
38.
Elder Soldier - Older/more experienced soldier
39.
Proud Heart Break - Your proud heart will break
40.
Testy Humour - Irritable mood
41.
Provoke Me - Push me too far
42.
Must I Budge - Must I yield / give way
2.
Paraphrase
>
CASSIUS: It’s obvious you’ve wronged me. You condemned Lucius Pella for taking
bribes from the people of Sardis, even though I wrote letters on his behalf
because I knew him. You ignored my letters.
BRUTUS:
You wronged yourself by writing to me about such a case.
CASSIUS:
In times like these, it isn’t right to comment on every minor offence.
BRUTUS:
Cassius, you’re guilty yourself of being greedy, of selling military posts for
gold to men who don’t deserve them.
CASSIUS:
Greedy? Taking bribes? You know it’s Brutus speaking; otherwise, by the gods,
it would be your last speech.
BRUTUS:
The name of Cassius protects this corruption, and so punishment hides its head.
CASSIUS:
Punishment?
BRUTUS:
Remember the Ides of March — didn’t great Julius die for justice? Did any of us
stab him for anything but justice? Shall we now contaminate our hands with
bribes and sell our honour for a handful of cash? I’d rather be a dog howling
at the moon than such a Roman.
CASSIUS:
Don’t bark at me, Brutus. Don’t try to confine me. I’m a soldier, more
experienced than you, and I’ll not endure it.
BRUTUS:
Go to! You’re not.
CASSIUS:
Urge me no more. Think about your safety — don’t push me.
BRUTUS:
Away, you insignificant man!
CASSIUS:
Is it possible you speak to me like this?
BRUTUS:
Must I yield to your wild temper? Shall I be frightened by a madman’s stare?
CASSIUS:
O gods, must I endure this?
BRUTUS:
Yes, and more, until your proud heart breaks. Show your anger to your slaves
and make them tremble; I won’t. From now on I’ll treat your anger as a joke.
CASSIUS:
Has it come to this?
BRUTUS:
You say you’re a better soldier; prove it. I’d be glad to learn from noble men.
CASSIUS:
You wrong me, Brutus. I said I was an elder soldier, not a better one. Did I
say “better”?
BRUTUS:
If you did, I don’t care.
3.
Thirty (30) One-Mark Questions
1.
Who does Cassius say Brutus has wronged?
Ans.
Cassius himself.
2.
Who was condemned for taking bribes from Sardians?
Ans.
Lucius Pella.
3.
Who wrote letters on behalf of Lucius Pella?
Ans.
Cassius.
4.
Who ignored Cassius’s letters?
Ans.
Brutus.
5.
What does Brutus accuse Cassius of having?
Ans.
An itching palm (greed).
6.
What does “itching palm” mean?
Ans.
Greed for money or bribes.
7.
According to Brutus, Cassius sells what for gold?
Ans.
Military or political offices.
8.
Who threatens Brutus that his speech could be his last?
Ans.
Cassius.
9.
What historical date does Brutus recall?
Ans.
The Ides of March.
10.
Why did the conspirators stab Caesar, according to Brutus?
Ans.
For justice’s sake.
11.
What does Brutus prefer to being a corrupt Roman?
Ans.
To be a dog baying at the moon.
12.
What does “bay not me” mean?
Ans.
Don’t bark at me / don’t attack me.
13.
Who claims to be a more experienced soldier?
Ans.
Cassius.
14.
What does Brutus call Cassius when angry?
Ans.
A slight man.
15.
What does “rash choler” mean?
Ans.
Reckless temper.
16.
Whom does Brutus tell Cassius to show his anger to?
Ans.
His slaves (bondmen).
17.
How does Brutus say he will treat Cassius’s anger henceforth?
Ans.
As mirth (amusement).
18.
What does “venom of your spleen” refer to?
Ans.
Cassius’s anger.
19.
What does Cassius accuse Brutus of doing to him?
Ans.
Wronging him in every way.
20.
What does “elder soldier” mean?
Ans.
Older or more experienced soldier.
21.
What does “vaunting” mean?
Ans.
Boasting.
22 Who says, “Remember March, the Ides of
March remember”?
Ans.
Brutus.
23.
What does Brutus mean by “sell the mighty space of our large honours”? Ans. Betray
their reputation for money.
24.
What is Brutus’s attitude toward bribery?
Ans.
He rejects it completely.
25.
Who says “I’ll not endure it”?
Ans.
Cassius.
26.
What does “forget yourself” mean here?
Ans.
Lose your self-control.
27.
Why does Cassius warn Brutus to have “mind upon your health”?
Ans.
He’s threatening him not to push further.
28.
What does “slight man” imply?
Ans.
Worthless or trivial person.
29.
How does Brutus react to Cassius calling himself a better soldier?
Ans.
He challenges him to prove it.
30.
What is Brutus’s final response to Cassius’s clarification?
Ans.
If you did, I care not.”
4.
Thirty (30) Multiple-Choice Questions
1.
Who condemned Lucius Pella?
A)
Cassius B) Brutus C) Caesar D) Octavius
Ans.
B) Brutus
2.
Cassius wrote letters to Brutus to:
A)
Accuse Pella B) Support Pella C) Ask money D) Arrest Brutus
Ans.
B) Support Pella
3.
“Itching palm” refers to:
A)
Courage B) Greed C) Clean hands D) Justice
Ans.
B) Greed
4.
Brutus accuses Cassius of selling:
A)
Lands B) Offices C) Horses D) Weapons
Ans.
B) Offices
5.
Who threatens Brutus with death over his words?
A)
Antony B) Cassius C) Octavius D) Lepidus
Ans.
B) Cassius
6.
The Ides of March refers to:
A)
1 March B) 15 March C) 30 March D) 10 March
Ans.
B) 15 March
7.
Why does Brutus recall Caesar’s assassination?
A)
To justify bribery B) To reject bribery C) To praise Cassius D) To mourn Caesar
Ans.
B) To reject bribery
8.
Brutus says he’d rather be:
A)
A lion B) A slave C) A dog baying at the moon D) A rich Roman
Ans.
C) A dog baying at the moon
9.
“Bay not me” means:
A)
Pay me B) Don’t bark at me C) Follow me D) Attack me
Ans.
B) Don’t bark at me
10.
Who calls whom a “slight man”?
A)
Cassius to Brutus B) Brutus to Cassius C) Caesar to Brutus D) Antony to Cassius
Ans.
B) Brutus to Cassius
11.
Cassius claims he is:
A)
A poet B) A soldier older in practice C) A priest D) A senator
Ans.
B) A soldier older in practice
12.
What does “rash choler” mean?
A)
Courage B) Reckless anger C) Fast thinking D) Bribery
Ans.
B) Reckless anger
13.
To whom does Brutus tell Cassius to show his anger?
A)
Brutus B) Caesar C) His slaves D) The Senate
Ans.
C) His slaves
14.
What does “bondmen” mean?
A)
Friends B) Soldiers C) Slaves D) Merchants
Ans.
C) Slaves
15.
“Venom of your spleen” refers to:
A)
Poison drink B) Cassius’s anger C) Brutus’s wound D) Caesar’s death
Ans.
B) Cassius’s anger
16.
How does Brutus plan to treat Cassius’s anger henceforth?
A)
With fear B) As a joke C) With punishment D) With silence
Ans.
B) As a joke
17\.
“Vaunting” means:
A)
Crying B) Boasting C) Fighting D) Teaching
Ans.
B) Boasting
18.
Who says “You wrong me every way”? A)
Brutus B) Cassius C) Antony D) Caesar
Ans.
B) Cassius
19.
What does Brutus challenge Cassius to do?
A)
Fight him B) Prove he’s a better soldier C) Leave the army D) Take bribes
Ans.
B) Prove he’s a better soldier
20.
Cassius clarifies he said he was:
A)
Better soldier B) Elder soldier C) Younger soldier D) Roman citizen
Ans.
B) Elder soldier
21.
Who recalls “the foremost man of all this world”?
A)
Cassius B) Brutus C) Antony D) Octavius
Ans.
B) Brutus
22.
“Sell the mighty space of our large honours” means:
A)
Buy new land B) Trade their reputation for money C) Increase power D) Expand
territory
Ans.
B) Trade their reputation for money
23.
What does Brutus call Cassius’s bribes?
A)
Base bribes B) Honourable bribes C) Roman bribes D) Gold bribes
Ans.
A) Base bribes
24.
What does “slighted off” mean?
A)
Welcomed B) Ignored C) Delivered D) Arrested
Ans. B) Ignored
25.
Who says “Go to” in the passage?
A)
Cassius B) Brutus C) Antony D) Octavius
Ans.
B) Brutus
26.
What does “forget yourself” mean?
A)
Lose your memory B) Lose your manners/self-control C) Sleep D) Travel abroad
Ans.
B) Lose your manners/self-control
27.
Why does Cassius say “have mind upon your health”?
A)
He’s concerned B) He’s threatening Brutus C) He’s joking D) He’s sick
Ans.
B) He’s threatening Brutus
28.
“Proud heart break” refers to:
A)
Cassius’s death B) Cassius’s anger collapsing C) Caesar’s murder D) A soldier’s
wound
Ans.
B) Cassius’s anger collapsing
29.
What quality does Brutus admire in “noble men”?
A)
Courage B) Teaching C) Experience he can learn from D) Silence
Ans.
C) Experience he can learn from
30.
Brutus’s last words in the excerpt show:
A)
Fear B) Indifference C) Anger D) Agreement
Ans.
B) Indifference (“If you did, I care not”)
5.
30 “Who Said to Whom” Questions
1.
“That you have wrong’d me doth appear in this.”
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
2.
“You have condemned and noted Lucius Pella.”
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
3.
“You wronged yourself to write in such a case.”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
4.
“It is not meet that every nice offence should bear his comment.”
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
5.
“You yourself are much condemn’d to have an itching palm.”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
6.
“To sell and mart your offices for gold to undeservers.”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
7.
“You know that you are Brutus that speaks this.”
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
8.
“The name of Cassius honours this corruption.”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
9.
“Remember March, the Ides of March remember.”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
10.
“Did not great Julius bleed for justice’ sake?”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
11.
“What villain touch’d his body, that did stab, and not for justice?”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
12.
“Shall we now contaminate our fingers with base bribes?”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
13.
“I had rather be a dog and bay the moon than such a Roman.”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
14.
“Bay not me.”
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
15.
“I am a soldier, older in practice, abler than yourself.”
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
16.
“Go to! You are not, Cassius.”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
17.
“Urge me no more. I shall forget myself.”
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
18.
“Away, slight man!”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
19.
“Is’t possible?”
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
20.
“Must I give way to your rash choler?”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
21.
“Shall I be frighted when a madman stares?”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
22.
“O ye gods, ye gods! Must I endure all this?”
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
23.
“Go show your slaves how choleric you are.”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
24.
“I’ll use you for my mirth.”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
25.
“You say you are a better soldier.”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
26.
“You wrong me every way, Brutus.”
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
27.
“I said an elder soldier, not a better.”
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
28.
“Did I say ‘better’?”
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
29.
“If you did, I care not.”
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
30.
“Tempt me no further.”
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
6.
20 Two-Mark Questions with Answers (~50 words each)
1.
Why is Cassius angry with Brutus over Lucius Pella?
Answer:
Cassius had interceded for Lucius Pella, accused of bribery. Brutus ignored
Cassius’s letters and condemned Pella. Cassius felt disrespected and
undermined. This shows Cassius valuing loyalty and Brutus valuing strict
justice, a major source of their quarrel.
2.
What does Brutus mean by “itching palm”?
Answer:
“Itching palm” means greed for money. Brutus accuses Cassius of selling
military offices for bribes. It’s a metaphor implying corrupt ambition and
reveals Brutus’s disgust at dishonourable practices among the conspirators
after Caesar’s death.
3.
Why does Cassius say “speech were else your last”?
Answer:
Cassius threatens Brutus that if anyone else had said such accusations he would
kill them. Cassius spares Brutus only out of respect. This shows how near to
violence their quarrel is.
4.
How does Brutus recall the Ides of March?
Answer:
Brutus recalls Caesar’s assassination as an act done for justice. He argues
they must not now ruin their honour with bribery or their act against Caesar
becomes meaningless.
5.
Explain Brutus’s metaphor “I had rather be a dog and bay the moon.”
Answer:
Brutus declares he’d rather be a howling dog than a corrupt Roman leader. The
metaphor dramatizes his disgust at bribery and emphasises his self-image as
morally upright.
6.
What does “Bay not me” reveal about Cassius’s mood?
Answer:
Cassius compares Brutus’s accusations to a dog barking. He feels attacked and
restricted. This shows his pride, anger, and sensitivity to criticism from
Brutus.
7.
Why does Cassius assert he is a more experienced soldier?
Answer:
Cassius is trying to reassert authority. He claims seniority and greater
ability in war to demand respect from Brutus, countering Brutus’s moral
superiority.
8.
What does Brutus mean by “slight man”?
Answer:
Brutus calls Cassius insignificant or worthless. “Slight” here is an insult
undermining Cassius’s dignity. It marks a turning point where Brutus openly
belittles his ally.
9.
Why does Brutus tell Cassius to show anger to his slaves?
Answer:
Brutus refuses to be intimidated and tells Cassius to vent his rage on
servants, not equals. He reduces Cassius’s temper to something fit only for
household discipline.
10.
What does “venom of your spleen” signify?
Answer:
In Shakespeare’s time the spleen was linked to anger. Brutus says Cassius must
swallow his own poison — manage his own fury — showing contempt for Cassius’s
temper.
11.
How does Brutus threaten Cassius without direct violence?
Answer:
Brutus states he’ll treat Cassius’s rage as a joke from now on, turning his
temper into a source of laughter. This belittles Cassius and deprives him of
power.
12.
Why does Brutus mention Caesar as “the foremost man of all this world”?
Answer:
He highlights Caesar’s greatness to show the seriousness of their act. Killing
Caesar for justice means they must remain untainted by bribery or their cause
collapses.
13.
What does Cassius mean by “Urge me no more”?
Answer:
He warns Brutus to stop provoking him. Cassius feels he’s at the edge of losing
control and hints at possible violence if Brutus continues.
14.
How does Brutus react to Cassius’s threat “tempt me no further”?
Answer:
Brutus refuses to back down and calls Cassius a “slight man,” mocking his
anger. This shows Brutus’s firmness and moral courage in facing Cassius’s
threats.
15.
Why does Cassius cry “O ye gods, ye gods”?
Answer:
Cassius appeals to divine witnesses about his humiliation. He feels Brutus’s
insults deeply and calls on the gods to see his suffering, a sign of emotional
desperation.
16.
How does Brutus turn Cassius’s anger into a joke?
Answer:
Brutus says he will “use” Cassius for his mirth — treating his tantrums as
comic entertainment. This reverses the power dynamic and defuses Cassius’s
threat.
17.
What does Brutus challenge Cassius to “make your vaunting true”?
Answer:
He invites Cassius to prove his boast of being a better soldier. Brutus
expresses willingness to learn from true merit but dismisses empty bragging.
18.
Why is Cassius offended by the phrase “better soldier”?
Answer:
He had said “elder soldier,” but Brutus twists it to “better soldier.” Cassius
feels misquoted and insulted, which inflames the quarrel further.
19.
What is revealed about Brutus’s character in this quarrel?
Answer:
Brutus appears principled, blunt, and unafraid to challenge close allies over
corruption. He values justice above political unity, even at the cost of
friendship.
20.
What is revealed about Cassius’s character in this quarrel?
Answer:
Cassius appears proud, hot-tempered, and sensitive to slights. He resents
Brutus’s moralising but still craves his approval. His anger masks insecurity
about his honour.
7.
Ten Three-Mark Questions
1.
Describe the conflict between Brutus and Cassius over Lucius Pella.
Answer:
Cassius had recommended leniency for Lucius Pella, accused of taking bribes
from the Sardians. Brutus ignored Cassius’s letters and condemned Pella,
upholding strict justice. This angers Cassius, who feels slighted and
undermined. The dispute shows their differing priorities: Brutus stands for
moral principle, while Cassius prioritises loyalty and practical politics. This
conflict begins the famous quarrel scene between the two leaders and
foreshadows cracks in their alliance.
2.
Explain how Brutus uses Caesar’s assassination as a moral standard in this
scene.
Answer:
Brutus argues they killed Caesar to preserve justice and the Republic. If they
now take bribes or sell offices, they betray the very ideals for which they
murdered him. By invoking Caesar’s memory, Brutus asserts his own integrity and
shames Cassius, reminding him that their reputations and honour are at stake
and their political cause will lose legitimacy if corrupted.
3.
Discuss the meaning and effect of Brutus’s insult “I had rather be a dog and
bay the moon than such a Roman.”
Answer:
Brutus expresses disgust at corruption, saying he’d rather be an animal howling
at the moon than a dishonourable Roman leader. This powerful metaphor elevates
virtue above status and wounds Cassius’s pride. It also reinforces Brutus’s
role as moral conscience within the conspirators, unwilling to compromise for
money, and shows how deeply he equates honour with personal identity.
4.
Analyse Cassius’s claim “I am a soldier, older in practice, abler than
yourself.”
Answer:
Cassius attempts to reassert authority by appealing to military seniority. He
feels Brutus has overstepped, accusing him of corruption and speaking down to
him. This line reveals Cassius’s pride and insecurity: he wants respect based
on experience, while Brutus demands respect based on ethical conduct. This
clash between authority types deepens the rift between them and shows differing
ideas of leadership legitimacy.
5.
How does Shakespeare present anger and self-control in this quarrel scene?
Answer:
Both men are furious, but Brutus channels his anger into cold moral rebukes,
while Cassius erupts with threats. Shakespeare shows two leadership styles:
Brutus’s stoic discipline versus Cassius’s emotional volatility. The contrast
dramatizes the tension between principle and passion and foreshadows the
conspirators’ eventual downfall due to internal discord, highlighting how
temperament affects political alliances and decision making.
6.
Explain Brutus’s attitude toward Cassius’s temper in “Go show your slaves how
choleric you are.”
Answer:
Brutus belittles Cassius’s rage by suggesting it belongs in the realm of
masters scolding servants, not equals debating policy. This remark strips
Cassius’s anger of dignity and frames it as petty. It signals Brutus’s refusal
to be intimidated and his intention to treat Cassius’s temper as mere theatre,
not power. This reveals Brutus’s moral confidence and rhetorical strategy.
7.
Discuss the importance of the line “You shall digest the venom of your spleen.”
Answer:
Brutus tells Cassius to swallow his own anger. The metaphor of “venom” from the
“spleen” draws on Renaissance medicine, linking the spleen to ill humour and
rage. Brutus asserts moral dominance, denying Cassius any outlet for his fury,
and signalling his new stance of ironic superiority over Cassius’s temper
tantrums. It shows Brutus’s growing contempt for Cassius’s emotional outbursts.
8.
What does the quarrel reveal about the conspirators’ unity after Caesar’s
death?
Answer:
The scene reveals deep cracks in the alliance. Brutus and Cassius disagree on
ethics, discipline, and leadership style. Their mutual accusations — bribery
versus self-righteousness — undermine cohesion. Shakespeare shows that without
Caesar as a common enemy, the conspirators turn on each other. This foreshadows
military disaster at Philippi and underlines the instability of their coalition
once their initial purpose fades.
9.
How does Shakespeare use animal imagery in this scene?
Answer:
He uses dogs, wasps, and venomous spleens. Brutus says he’d rather be a dog
than a corrupt Roman; he accuses Cassius of waspishness; he speaks of venom.
This imagery makes anger and corruption seem animalistic and low, contrasting
with the ideal of noble Roman virtue and self-mastery. It sharpens the
emotional stakes of their quarrel and makes their insults vivid.
10.
Evaluate the leadership qualities of Brutus and Cassius as shown in the
passage.
Answer:
Brutus appears principled, uncompromising, and willing to risk friendships for
justice. Cassius appears passionate, experienced, but also corruptible and
thin-skinned. Together they represent the strengths and weaknesses of
Republican leadership: moral idealism without flexibility, and practical skill
without moral restraint. Shakespeare suggests this combination is unstable and
destined for conflict, shaping the tragedy of their joint downfall at Philippi.
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Extract
2:When Caesar lived, he durst not thus have moved me……………Brutus: And my heart
too.
(Act
IV, Scene III — The Quarrel Between Brutus and Cassius)
1.
Glossary
1.
When Caesar lived, he durst not thus have moved me: When Caesar was alive, he
would not have dared to anger me like this.
2.
Peace, peace! you durst not so have tempted him: Calm down! You would not have
dared to provoke him like that.
3.
Do not presume too much upon my love: Don’t take advantage of my friendship.
4.
I may do that I shall be sorry for: I might do something I’ll regret.
5.
There is no terror, Cassius, in your threats: Your threats don’t frighten me,
Cassius.
6.
I am arm’d so strong in honesty: I am protected by my honesty.
7.
They pass by me as the idle wind: Your threats pass over me like harmless wind.
8.
Coin my heart / drop my blood for drachmas: Give my own life or blood to raise
money.
9.
Wrung from the hard hands of peasants their vile trash: Squeezed poor people
for their dirty money.
10.
Indirection: Dishonest methods
11.
Lock such rascal counters from his friends: Keep back such worthless coins from
his friends.
12.
With all your thunderbolts dash him to pieces: (Brutus prays) O gods, strike
him dead with lightning.
13.
Brutus hath riv’n my heart: Brutus has torn my heart apart.
A
friend should bear his friend’s infirmities: A true friend should tolerate his
friend’s weaknesses.
14.
Till you practise them on me: Until you act those faults out against me.
A
flatterer’s eye: The eye of someone who flatters you
15.
As huge as high Olympus: As big as the mountain Olympus (symbol of greatness)
16.
Revenge yourselves alone on Cassius: Take revenge on me only.
17.
Braved by his brother: Defied by his friend (Brutus).
18.
Check’d like a bondman: Reprimanded like a slave.
19.
Cast into my teeth: Thrown in my face / spoken against me.
20.
My spirit from mine eyes: My spirit flows out through my tears.
21.
Here is my dagger / naked breast: Offering his dagger and bare chest — ready to
die.
22.
Strike, as thou didst at Caesar: Kill me as you killed Caesar.
23.
Lovedst him better than Cassius: Loved Caesar more than Cassius.
24.
Cassius is aweary of the world: Cassius is tired of life.
25.
Set in a note-book, learn’d and conn’d by rote: Written down and memorised like
a lesson.
26.
Plutus’ mine: The treasure of Plutus (god of wealth).
27.
Be angry when you will, it shall have scope: Be angry whenever you wish; you’ll
have freedom to vent.
28.
Dishonour shall be humour: Your offence I’ll take as mere mood.
29.
Yoked with a lamb: Paired with someone gentle.
30.
Flint bears fire: Flint sparks only when struck hard.
31.
Straight is cold again: The anger dies quickly.
32.
To be but mirth and laughter to his Brutus: To be only a source of mockery for
Brutus.
33.
When grief and blood ill-temper’d vexeth him: When
sorrow and anger upset him.
34.
Give me your hand / and my heart too: Symbol of reconciliation and friendship.
2.
Paraphrase {Minor lines have been omitted.}
CASSIUS:
When Caesar was alive, he would never have dared treat me like this.
BRUTUS:
Calm down! You wouldn’t have dared provoke him either.
CASSIUS:
Don’t push me too far. Don’t take advantage of my love; I might do something
I’ll regret.
BRUTUS:
You’ve already done something you should regret.
There’s
no fear in your threats, Cassius — my honesty protects me. Your threats pass
over me like empty wind. I asked you for money to pay my soldiers, but you
refused. By heaven, I’d rather mint my own heart and shed my blood for coins
than extort dirty money from poor people. I will never raise funds by dishonest
means.
I
asked you for gold to pay my army — why did you deny me? Should Brutus have
been answered so by Cassius? When Marcus Brutus becomes greedy and keeps
worthless coins from his friends, then gods, strike him dead with your
thunderbolts!
CASSIUS:
I didn’t deny you. It was the messenger’s fault. Brutus, you’ve broken my
heart. A friend should tolerate his friend’s weaknesses, but you make mine seem
worse than they are.
BRUTUS:
I don’t — until you act them out on me.
CASSIUS:
You only look at my faults.
BRUTUS:
A flatterer wouldn’t, even if they were as big as Mount Olympus.
CASSIUS:
Go on then — let Antony and young Octavius revenge themselves on me. I’m hated
by the one I love, challenged by my friend, treated like a slave, my faults
thrown in my face. Oh, I could weep my soul out through my eyes. Here’s my
dagger, here’s my bare chest — if you’re truly Roman, stab me as you stabbed
Caesar. I denied you gold, but I’ll give you my heart. Strike me, because I
know you loved Caesar more than you love Cassius. Cassius is weary of the
world.
BRUTUS:
Put away your dagger. Be angry when you like — I’ll accept it as your mood. O
Cassius, you’re like a lamb yoked with me. Your anger sparks like flint when
struck, but it cools immediately.
CASSIUS:
Has Cassius lived to be mocked by Brutus?
BRUTUS:
I was also angry when I spoke.
CASSIUS:
Do you admit it? Give me your hand.
BRUTUS:
And my heart too.
(They
reconcile.)
3.
30 One-Mark Questions
1.
Q: Who says, “When Caesar lived, he durst not thus have moved me”?
A:
Cassius
2.
Q: Whom is Cassius addressing when he says “Peace, peace!”?
A:
Brutus
3.
Q: What does Cassius warn Brutus not to presume upon?
A:
His (Cassius’s) love
4.
Q: Why does Brutus say Cassius should be sorry?
A:
Because Cassius denied him gold for his army.
5.
Q: What does Brutus compare Cassius’s threats to?
A:
Idle wind
6.
Q: What protects Brutus from Cassius’s threats?
A:
His honesty
7.
Q: What does Brutus say he would rather coin than take money by foul means?
A:
His heart
8.
Q: What is a drachma in the passage?
A:
A unit of currency (money)
9.
Q: Who refused Brutus the gold he requested?
A:
Cassius
10.
Q: What does Brutus pray the gods to do if he becomes greedy?
A:
Strike him to pieces with thunderbolts.
11.
Q: What does Cassius say Brutus has “riv’n”?
A:
His heart
12.
Q: According to Cassius, what should a friend bear?
A:
His friend’s infirmities (weaknesses)
13.
Q: When does Brutus say he notices Cassius’s faults?
A:
When Cassius practises them on him.
14.
Q: What kind of eye could not see Cassius’s faults, according to him?
A:
A friendly eye
15.
Q: What does Brutus compare a flatterer’s eye to?
A:
One that would not see faults as big as Olympus.
16.
Q: Which two men does Cassius invite to “revenge yourselves alone on Cassius”?
A:
Antony and Octavius
17.
Q: How does Cassius feel about being “braved by his brother”?
A:
He feels insulted and humiliated.
18.
Q: What weapon does Cassius offer to Brutus?
A:
His dagger
19.
Q: What does Cassius bare to Brutus along with his dagger?
A:
His naked breast (chest)
20.
Q: Why does Cassius say Brutus should stab him?
A:
Because Brutus loved Caesar more than Cassius.
21.
Q: How does Cassius describe his feeling toward the world?
A:
“Cassius is aweary of the world.”
22.
Q: What god’s mine does Cassius mention as dearer than himself?
A:
Plutus’ mine (god of wealth).
23.
Q: How does Brutus describe Cassius’s anger?
A:
Like flint that sparks only when struck hard, then grows cold.
24.
Q: Whom does Brutus call “a lamb”?
A:
Cassius
25.
Q: What does Cassius ask Brutus after admitting he is hurt?
A:
“Give me your hand.”
26.
Q: What does Brutus give Cassius besides his hand?
A:
His heart.
27.
Q: Who says “Dishonour shall be humour”?
A:
Brutus.
28.
Q: What does Cassius regret — being mirth and laughter to Brutus or being his
equal?
A:
Being mirth and laughter to Brutus
29.
Q: What mountain does Brutus refer to in describing Cassius’s faults?
A:
Mount Olympus
30.
Q: What happens at the end of the quarrel between Brutus and Cassius?
A:
They reconcile and shake hands.
4.
30 MCQs
1.
Who says “When Caesar lived, he durst not thus have moved me”?
a)
Brutus
b)
Cassius
c)
Antony
d)
Octavius
Answer:
b) Cassius
2.
In the passage, “Peace, peace!” is addressed to:
a)
Antony
b)
Octavius
c)
Brutus
d)
Lepidus
Answer:
c) Brutus
3.
Cassius warns Brutus not to presume too much upon his:
a)
Money
b)
Love
c)
Army
d)
Friendship with Antony
Answer:
b) Love
4.
Brutus accuses Cassius of denying him:
a)
A post in the Senate
b)
Gold to pay his soldiers
c)
Caesar’s will
d)
Land
Answer:
b) Gold to pay his soldiers
5.
Brutus compares Cassius’s threats to:
a)
A raging storm
b)
Idle wind
c)
A wild beast
d)
Burning fire
Answer:
b) Idle wind
6.
Brutus says he is arm’d strong in:
a)
Wealth
b)
Honesty
c)
Power
d)
Allies
Answer:
b) Honesty
7.
Brutus would rather coin his __ than take money by foul means.
a)
Gold
b)
Heart
c)
Sword
d)
Army
Answer:
b) Heart
8.
“Drachmas” in the passage means:
a)
Friends
b)
Enemies
c)
Coins / money
d)
Weapons
Answer:
c) Coins / money
9.
How does Brutus prefer to raise money for his army?
a)
By robbing Antony
b)
By wringing peasants
c)
By shedding his own blood
d)
By borrowing from Octavius
Answer:
c) By shedding his own blood
10.
Brutus prays the gods to dash him to pieces with:
a)
Earthquakes
b)
Thunderbolts
c)
Floods
d)
Fire
Answer:
b) Thunderbolts
11.
Cassius says Brutus has riv’n his:
a)
Sword
b)
Heart
c)
Honour
d)
Army
Answer:
b) Heart
12.
According to Cassius, what should a friend bear?
a)
His friend’s infirmities
b)
His friend’s debts
c)
His friend’s army
d)
His friend’s family
Answer:
a) His friend’s infirmities
13.
Brutus says he notices Cassius’s faults only when:
a)
Others tell him
b)
He practises them on Brutus
c)
Caesar mentions them
d)
Antony complains
Answer:
b) He practises them on Brutus
14.
Cassius says a friendly eye could never see:
a)
Money
b)
Brutus’s faults
c)
His own faults
d)
Caesar’s murder
Answer:
c) His own faults
15.
Brutus says a flatterer’s eye would not see faults as huge as:
a)
Himalayas
b)
Olympus
c)
Alps
d)
Sinai
Answer:
b) Olympus
16.
Cassius invites which two to revenge themselves alone on him?
a)
Brutus and Lepidus
b)
Antony and Octavius
c)
Caesar’s ghost and Antony
d)
Casca and Trebonius
Answer:
b) Antony and Octavius
17.
“Check’d like a bondman” means Cassius feels treated like:
a)
A king
b)
A priest
c)
A slave
d)
A senator
Answer:
c) A slave
18.
Cassius offers Brutus his:
a)
Purse
b)
Dagger
c)
Throne
d)
Shield
Answer:
b) Dagger
19.
What part of his body does Cassius bare to Brutus?
a)
His face
b)
His hand
c)
His naked breast
d)
His back
Answer:
c) His naked breast
20.
Cassius says Brutus loved Caesar more than:
a)
Antony
b)
Rome
c)
Cassius
d)
Power
Answer:
c) Cassius
21.
Cassius says he is “aweary” of:
a)
The army
b)
The world
c)
Caesar’s ghost
d)
Rome
Answer:
b) The world
22.
Cassius compares Brutus to something dearer than:
a)
Plutus’ mine
b)
Caesar’s crown
c)
Antony’s friendship
d)
Rome’s treasures
Answer:
a) Plutus’ mine
23.
Brutus says Cassius’s anger sparks like:
a)
Iron
b)
Lightning
c)
Flint
d)
Steel
Answer:
c) Flint
24.
Whom does Brutus call “a lamb”?
a)
Caesar
b)
Cassius
c)
Antony
d)
Lepidus
Answer:
b) Cassius
25.
Brutus says dishonour shall be:
a)
Punished
b)
Humour
c)
Forgotten
d)
Rewarded
Answer:
b) Humour
26.
Cassius asks Brutus after reconciliation:
a)
Give me your heart
b)
Give me your hand
c)
Give me your money
d)
Give me your sword
Answer:
b) Give me your hand
27.
What does Brutus give Cassius besides his hand?
a)
His sword
b)
His heart
c)
His gold
d)
His army
Answer:
b) His heart
28.
Which god’s mine is mentioned in the passage?
a)
Neptune
b)
Plutus
c)
Jupiter
d)
Apollo
Answer:
b) Plutus
29.
How does the quarrel between Brutus and Cassius end?
a)
With a fight
b)
With reconciliation and handshake
c)
With Cassius leaving the camp
d)
With Brutus leaving the camp
Answer:
b) With reconciliation and handshake
30.
What is the overall tone of this passage between Brutus and Cassius?
a)
A light-hearted comedy
b)
A tense quarrel leading to reconciliation
c)
A speech about Caesar’s will
d)
A battle strategy meeting
Answer:
b) A tense quarrel leading to reconciliation
5.
20 “Who said to whom”
1.
Who said to whom: “When Caesar lived, he durst not thus have moved me”?
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
2.
Who said to whom: “Peace, peace! You durst not so have tempted him”?
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
3.
Who said to whom: “Do not presume too much upon my love; I may do that I shall
be sorry for”?
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
4.
Who said to whom: “You have done that you should be sorry for”?
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
5.
Who said to whom: “There is no terror, Cassius, in your threats; for I am arm’d
so strong in honesty”?
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
6.
Who said to whom: “I did send to you for certain sums of gold, which you denied
me”?
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
7.
Who said to whom: “By heaven, I had rather coin my heart and drop my blood for
drachmas than to wring from the hard hands of peasants their vile trash”?
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
8.
Who said to whom: “Be ready, gods, with all your thunderbolts; dash him to
pieces”?
Answer:
Brutus prayed this to the gods (about himself, if he became greedy).
9.
Who said to whom: “Brutus hath riv’n my heart”?
Answer:
Cassius said this about Brutus.
10.
Who said to whom: “A friend should bear his friend’s infirmities, but Brutus
makes mine greater than they are”?
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
11.
Who said to whom: “Till you practise them on me”?
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
12.
Who said to whom: “A friendly eye could never see such faults”?
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
13.
Who said to whom: “A flatterer’s would not, though they do appear as huge as
high Olympus”?
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
14.
Who said to whom: “Come, Antony, and young Octavius, revenge yourselves alone
on Cassius”?
Answer:
Cassius said this (calling upon Antony and Octavius) in the presence of Brutus.
15.
Who said to whom: “There is my dagger, and here my naked breast; within, a
heart”?
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
16.
Who said to whom: “Strike, as thou didst at Caesar”?
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
17.
Who said to whom: “Be angry when you will, it shall have scope; do what you
will, dishonour shall be humour”?
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
18.
Who said to whom: “O Cassius, you are yoked with a lamb that carries anger as
the flint bears fire”?
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius.
19.
Who said to whom: “Give me your hand”?
Answer:
Cassius said this to Brutus.
20.
Who said to whom: “And my heart too”?
Answer:
Brutus said this to Cassius
6.
15 two-mark questions
Q
.1.: Why does Cassius say, “When Caesar lived, he durst not thus have moved
me”?
A:
Cassius feels Brutus is treating him more harshly than even Caesar dared to do
when alive. This complaint shows Cassius’s wounded pride and signals the
beginning of their bitter quarrel inside Brutus’s tent at Sardis.
Q.2:
What accusation does Cassius make about Brutus’s attitude toward him?
A:
Cassius claims Brutus wronged him by condemning Lucius Pella despite Cassius’s
letters in his defence. He says Brutus publicly shamed his friend and
disregarded his influence, undermining their unity and friendship.
Q.
3: How does Brutus defend his condemnation of Lucius Pella?
A:
Brutus argues that they killed Caesar to end corruption; therefore they must
not condone bribery within their own ranks. He insists justice must be
impartial, even if it offends Cassius, because their cause depends on moral
integrity.
Q.
4: What does Brutus mean when he says Cassius has “an itching palm”?
A:
Brutus accuses Cassius of being greedy and of selling positions for gold. This
insult implies Cassius is corrupt and betraying their principles, inflaming
Cassius’s anger and escalating the quarrel.
Q.5:
How does Cassius respond to being called “an itching palm”?
A:
Cassius bursts into fury, calling Brutus a “Brutus boy” and boasting of his
seniority. He claims Brutus should not accuse him of greed and even threatens
him with his own dagger, showing how deeply insulted he feels.
Q.6:
Why does Cassius offer Brutus his dagger during the quarrel?
A:
Cassius dramatically offers his dagger, inviting Brutus to kill him if he no
longer values his friendship. This gesture is both theatrical and sincere,
revealing Cassius’s emotional vulnerability and the intensity of the dispute.
Q.7:
How does Brutus reply to Cassius’s dagger offer?
A:
Brutus refuses to harm Cassius, saying his anger is directed at Cassius’s
faults, not at Cassius himself. This shows Brutus’s self-control and desire to
reconcile rather than destroy their partnership.
Q.
8: What does Cassius mean when he says Brutus “hath described a hot friend
cooling”?
A:
Cassius is accusing Brutus of being a friend who has grown cold and distant.
This complaint underscores Cassius’s insecurity and fear that Brutus no longer
trusts or respects him.
Q.
9: How does Brutus’s revelation about Portia’s death change the mood?
A:
When Brutus tells Cassius that Portia is dead, Cassius softens immediately.
This tragic news shifts the mood from anger to sympathy and opens the path for
their reconciliation.
Q.
10: Why does Cassius feel guilty after Brutus mentions Portia?
A:
Cassius realises Brutus’s harshness stems from personal grief. Feeling
remorseful, he blames himself for quarrelling with a man already burdened by
loss. This recognition leads him to apologise and embrace Brutus.
Q.
11: What do Brutus and Cassius do to reaffirm their friendship?
A:
They clasp hands, exchange forgiveness, and drink wine together. This ritual
shows they value unity above pride and are determined to face the coming battle
as allies rather than rivals.
Q.
12: What is the dramatic purpose of the poet’s brief entrance?
A:
The poet storms in urging them to stop fighting. His comic interruption breaks
the tension and acts as a moral voice, reminding them that their quarrel
dishonours them before their soldiers.
Q.
13: How does Brutus characterise his own temper after the quarrel?
A:
Brutus admits he was too quick-tempered because of his sorrow over Portia’s
death. This self-awareness shows his honesty and helps restore harmony between
him and Cassius.
Q.
14: What is Cassius’s final gesture to confirm his loyalty to Brutus?
A:
Cassius offers his heart and even his sword to Brutus if he doubts him. This
hyperbolic pledge underscores Cassius’s desperation to keep Brutus’s friendship
and the emotional depth of their bond.
Q.
15: What does Brutus mean when he says “And my heart too”?
A:
Brutus responds to Cassius’s offer by saying Cassius has not only his hand but
also his heart. This signals full reconciliation, mutual forgiveness, and the
restoration of their brotherly partnership before marching to war.
7.
10 three-mark questions
1.
Q: How does Cassius use Caesar’s memory to criticise Brutus at the start of the
quarrel?
A:
Cassius says, “When Caesar lived, he durst not thus have moved me,” implying
even Caesar did not dare provoke him as Brutus does now. By invoking Caesar’s
memory, Cassius tries to shame Brutus for disrespect and assert his own
seniority. This opening establishes Cassius’s grievance and pride, fuelling
their conflict.
2.
Q: What issue about Lucius Pella sparks the confrontation between Brutus and
Cassius?
A:
Brutus condemned Lucius Pella for taking bribes, despite Cassius’s letters in
his defence. Cassius feels Brutus undermined him publicly. Brutus argues their
cause demands moral purity, but Cassius interprets it as personal betrayal.
This disagreement over discipline versus loyalty becomes the immediate cause of
their heated exchange inside Brutus’s tent.
3.
Q: Explain Brutus’s moral position when he accuses Cassius of corruption.
A:
Brutus claims Cassius has an “itching palm” — selling offices for gold — which
contradicts the very principles that led them to kill Caesar. He believes
leaders must remain untainted by bribery to keep their cause just. This speech
highlights Brutus’s rigid integrity and shows how ethical standards clash with
political pragmatism.
4.
Q: How does Shakespeare use the quarrel to reveal differences in Brutus and
Cassius’s characters?
A:
The quarrel shows Cassius as emotional, prideful and quick to anger, while
Brutus remains principled, cold and self-controlled. Cassius threatens
violence; Brutus refuses to be provoked. This contrast deepens our
understanding of their partnership — a blend of passion and stoic honour — and
foreshadows tensions affecting their leadership in war.
5.
Q: Why is Cassius’s offer of his dagger a turning point in the scene?
A:
Cassius’s offer of his dagger is both theatrical and sincere. It signals his
willingness to die rather than lose Brutus’s friendship, and also exposes his
vulnerability. This dramatic moment disarms Brutus’s anger, moving the scene
from open hostility toward reconciliation and demonstrating the depth of their
emotional bond and shared history.
6.
Q: How does Portia’s death influence the quarrel’s resolution?
A:
When Brutus reveals Portia’s death, Cassius instantly softens. Realising
Brutus’s grief explains his irritability, Cassius feels ashamed of their
conflict. This disclosure shifts the scene from hostility to compassion,
allowing both men to reconnect. Portia’s offstage death thus operates as a
dramatic device to reconcile the estranged allies and highlight Brutus’s
stoicism.
7.
Q: What is the role of the poet who interrupts Brutus and Cassius?
A:
The poet enters and urges them to stop quarrelling, saying it dishonours them.
This comic intrusion contrasts with the high tension of the scene and reflects
the public’s view of their leaders. Dramatically, it diffuses anger and prompts
self-awareness in Brutus and Cassius, nudging them toward peace and
reconciliation.
8.
Q: Discuss how the scene shows Brutus’s self-awareness and emotional restraint.
A:
Brutus admits his irritability stems from private grief. Despite Cassius’s
provocations, he avoids violence and calmly explains his actions. By revealing
Portia’s death, he shows vulnerability yet maintains dignity. Shakespeare
portrays him as principled but human, illustrating a leader torn between stoic
duty and personal sorrow, which increases audience sympathy.
9.
Q: How do Brutus and Cassius re-establish their bond after the quarrel?
A:
They exchange forgiveness, clasp hands and drink wine together. These gestures
mirror Roman rituals of friendship and alliance. By reaffirming loyalty, they
demonstrate that unity is essential before facing Antony and Octavius. This
reconciliation scene reassures the audience of their joint command, even as it
foreshadows their later defeat at Philippi.
10.
Q: What is the significance of Brutus’s final line “And my heart too”?
A:
This line seals the reconciliation. Brutus offers not just his hand but his
heart, symbolising full emotional commitment to Cassius. It closes the quarrel
on a note of restored brotherhood and mutual respect. Dramatically, it signals
a temporary harmony before the looming tragedy of their defeat and Brutus’s own
downfall.
8.
5 Reference to context extracts
Extract
1
“That
you have wronged me doth appear in this:
You
have condemned and noted Lucius Pella
For
taking bribes here of the Sardians;
Wherein
my letters, praying on his side,
Because
I knew the man, was slighted off.”
Q1.
Who speaks these lines and to whom?
Cassius
speaks these lines to Brutus in Brutus’ tent at Sardis.
Q2.
What is Cassius accusing Brutus of here?
Cassius
accuses Brutus of publicly condemning Lucius Pella for bribery despite Cassius’
written request to pardon him.
Q3.
Why does this incident upset Cassius so much?
Because
Cassius feels Brutus has insulted his authority and disregarded their
friendship by ignoring his plea.
Q4.
What does this reveal about Brutus’ character?
Brutus
is shown as strict, principled, and unwilling to compromise justice even for
friends.
Q5.
How does this passage begin the quarrel?
It
sparks the quarrel because Cassius feels personally wronged, and Brutus defends
his own integrity, leading to open conflict.
Extract
2
“Remember
March, the ides of March remember:
Did
not great Julius bleed for justice’ sake?
What
villain touched his body, that did stab,
And
not for justice?”
Q1.
Who says this and in what situation?
Brutus
says this to Cassius while rebuking him for supporting corrupt acts.
Q2.
Why does Brutus remind Cassius of the Ides of March?
He
is stressing that Caesar was assassinated for justice and integrity, not to
allow bribery or corruption.
Q3.
What does Brutus imply about Cassius’ actions?
Brutus
implies Cassius is betraying the very ideals for which they killed Caesar by
defending bribe-takers.
Q4.
How does this line show Brutus’ moral standards?
It
shows Brutus’ unwavering dedication to justice and the original cause of the
conspiracy.
Q5.
What is Cassius’ reaction after this speech?
Cassius
grows increasingly angry, claiming Brutus is insulting him and questioning his honour.
Extract
3
“You
wrong me every way, you wrong me, Brutus:
I
said an elder soldier, not a better.
Did
I say better?”
Q1.
Who speaks these lines and why?
Cassius
speaks these lines to Brutus during the height of their quarrel when Brutus
accuses him of corruption and greed.
Q2.
What is Cassius trying to clarify?
Cassius
is clarifying that he only claimed to be an older soldier than Brutus, not a
better one — to defend his honour.
Q3.
What does this tell you about Cassius’ emotional state?
He
is frustrated, hurt, and feels his dignity has been insulted.
Q4.
How does Brutus respond to Cassius’ complaint?
Brutus
sharply rebukes Cassius again, showing he is unmoved by Cassius’ emotional
appeal.
Q5.
What is the dramatic effect of this exchange?
It
heightens the tension and shows the breakdown of unity among the conspirators.
Extract
4
“There
is no terror, Cassius, in your threats,
For
I am arm’d so strong in honesty
That
they pass by me as the idle wind,
Which
I respect not.”
Q1.
Who says this to whom?
Brutus
says this to Cassius, dismissing Cassius’ angry threats.
Q2.
What does Brutus mean by ‘arm’d so strong in honesty’?
He
means his conscience is clear and therefore he fears no accusation or threat.
Q3.
How does this reflect Brutus’ personality?
It
shows Brutus’ moral courage and his belief in the power of integrity over
intimidation.
Q4.
What effect does this statement have on Cassius?
It
enrages Cassius further because Brutus is belittling his anger and threats.
Q5.
Why is this line significant in the quarrel scene?
It
underlines the central conflict — Brutus’ strict sense of honesty clashing with
Cassius’ more pragmatic politics.
Extract
5
“Strike
as thou didst at Caesar; for I know,
When
thou didst hate him worst, thou lovedst him better
Than
ever thou lovedst Cassius.”
Q1.
Who speaks these lines and to whom?
Cassius
speaks them to Brutus during the quarrel.
Q2.
Why does Cassius say ‘Strike as thou didst at Caesar’?
He
feels so hurt and betrayed by Brutus’ accusations that he challenges Brutus to
kill him as he killed Caesar.
Q3.
What emotion does Cassius express here?
Despair
and wounded pride — he feels Brutus no longer trusts or values him.
Q4.
How does Brutus respond after this?
Brutus’
anger cools, and he softens toward Cassius, leading to reconciliation.
Q5.
What is the importance of this passage in the scene?
It
marks the turning point where both men recognize their bond and reconcile,
restoring unity before the coming battle.
COURTESY:
Meta AI & ChatGPT
Compiled
by Dr. Shankar D Mishra
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