Julius Caesar Act III, Scene 2 – Part Two

Julius Caesar Act III, Scene 2 – Part Two

Lines: Citizens: We will be satisfied: let us be satisfied……………..Antony: You gentle Romans—, Citizens: Peace, ho! let us hear him.

Text:

Rome: the Forum

Enter Brutus and Cassius, and a throng of Citizens

Citizens

We will be satisfied: let us be satisfied.

Brutus

Then follow me, and give me audience, friends. Cassius, go you into the other street, And part the numbers. Those that will hear me speak, let 'em stay here; Those that will follow Cassius, go with him; And public reasons shall be rendered Of Caesar's death.

First Citizen

I will hear Brutus speak.

Second Citizen

I will hear Cassius; and compare their reasons, When severally we hear them rendered.

[Exit Cassius, with some of the Citizens; Brutus goes into the pulpit]

Third Citizen

The noble Brutus is ascended: silence!

Brutus

Be patient till the last. Romans, countrymen, and lovers! hear me for my cause, and be silent, that you may hear. Believe me for mine honour, and have respect to mine honour, that you may believe. Censure me in your wisdom, and awake your senses, that you may the better judge. If there be any in this assembly, any dear friend of Caesar's, to him I say, that Brutus' love to Caesar was no less than his. If, then, that friend demand why Brutus rose against Caesar, this is my answer: not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more. Had you rather Caesar were living, and die all slaves, than that Caesar were dead, to live all free men? As Caesar loved me, I weep for him; as he was fortunate, I rejoice at it; as he was valiant, I honour him; but, as he was ambitious, I slew him. There is tears for his love, joy for his fortune, honour for his valour, and death for his ambition. Who is here so base that would be a bondman? If any, speak, for him have I offended. Who is here so rude that would not be a Roman? If any, speak, for him have I offended. Who is here so vile that will not love his country? If any, speak, for him have I offended. I pause for a reply.

Citizens

None, Brutus, none.

Brutus

Then none have I offended. I have done no more to Caesar than you shall do to Brutus. The question of his death is enrolled in the Capitol; his glory not extenuated, wherein he was worthy; nor his offences enforced, for which he suffered death.

Enter Antony and others, with Caesar's body.

Here comes his body, mourned by Mark Antony: who, though he had no hand in his death, shall receive the benefit of his dying, a place in the commonwealth; as which of you shall not? With this I depart: that, as I slew my best lover for the good of Rome, I have the same dagger for myself, when it shall please my country to need my death.

Citizens

Live, Brutus! live, live!

First Citizen

Bring him with triumph home unto his house.

Second Citizen

Give him a statue with his ancestors.

Third Citizen

Let him be Caesar.

Fourth Citizen

Caesar's better parts Shall be crown'd in Brutus.

First Citizen

We'll bring him to his house with shouts and clamours.

Brutus

My countrymen—

Second Citizen

Peace, silence! Brutus speaks.

First Citizen

Peace, ho!

Brutus

Good countrymen, let me depart alone, And, for my sake, stay here with Antony. Do grace to Caesar's corpse, and grace his speech Tending to Caesar's glories, which Mark Antony, By our permission, is allow'd to make. I do entreat you, not a man depart, Save I alone, till Antony have spoke.

[Exit]

First Citizen

Stay, ho! and let us hear Mark Antony.

Third Citizen

Let him go up into the public chair; We'll hear him. Noble Antony, go up.

Antony

For Brutus' sake, I am beholding to you.

[Goes up into the pulpit]

Fourth Citizen

What does he say of Brutus?

Third Citizen

He says, for Brutus' sake, He finds himself beholding to us all.

Fourth Citizen

'Twere best he speak no harm of Brutus here.

First Citizen

This Caesar was a tyrant.

Third Citizen

Nay, that's certain: We are bless'd that Rome is rid of him.

Second Citizen

Peace! let us hear what Antony can say.

Antony

You gentle Romans—

Citizens

Peace, ho! let us hear him.

GLOSSARY

1.satisfied–contented or convinced

2.audience–attention or hearing given to a speaker

3.part the numbers–divide the crowd

4.rendered–given or presented

5.public reasons–official explanations

6.ascended–gone up or climbed

7.silence–quiet or calm

8.be patient till the last–wait quietly until I finish

9.lovers–friends or well-wishers

10.hear me for my cause–listen to my reasons

11.believe me for mine honour–trust me because of my honesty and reputation

12.censure–judge or criticise

13.awake your senses–use your understanding carefully

14.assembly–gathering of people

15.dear friend–beloved or close friend

16.rose against–rebelled or took action against

17.not that I loved Caesar less–not because I didn’t love Caesar

18.loved Rome more–had greater love for my country

19.had you rather–would you prefer

20.slaves–people forced to obey others without freedom

21.free men–independent citizens

22.fortunate–successful or lucky

23.rejoice–feel happiness

24.valiant–brave or courageous

25.honour–show respect or admiration

26.ambitious–having excessive desire for power

27.slew–killed

28.bondman–slave or servant

29.rude–uncivilised or unpatriotic

30.vile–wicked or dishonourable

31.pause for a reply–wait for an answer

32.none have I offended–I have not wronged anyone

33.enrolled–recorded or written officially

34.capitol–the main government building in ancient Rome

35.glory–fame or honour

36.extenuated–lessened or made seem smaller

37.wherein–in which respect

38.offences–crimes or wrongdoings

39.enforced–exaggerated or overstated

40.suffered death–was put to death

41.mourned–grieved or lamented

42.benefit of his dying–advantage gained from his death

43.commonwealth–the republic or the state of Rome

44.depart–leave or go away

45.best lover–dearest friend

46.dagger–short pointed knife used as a weapon

47.please my country–when my country requires or desires

48.triumph–great public celebration or victory procession

49.statue–sculpture made in someone’s likeness

50.ancestors–forefathers

51.better parts–superior qualities

52.crown’d–honoured or made supreme

53.shouts and clamours–loud cries of joy and excitement

54.my countrymen–fellow citizens

55.do grace to–show respect or honour to

56.corpse–dead body

57.tending to Caesar’s glories–relating to Caesar’s noble deeds

58.permission–approval or consent

59.entreat–request or beg

60.depart–leave

61.save I alone–except me

62.public chair–pulpit or raised platform

63.beholding–indebted or grateful

64.tyrant–cruel and oppressive ruler

65.Nay–no or indeed not

66.bless’d–fortunate

67.rid of–freed from

68.gentle–kind or noble

69.ho–an exclamation used to call for attention

70.twere–it were or it would be

71.sake–for the benefit or interest of

72.best–safest or most advisable

73.harm–bad or insulting words

74.hear him–listen to what he says

75.let us hear–allow us to listen attentively

Paraphrase:

Citizens: We want answers; give us answers!

Brutus: Then come with me and listen carefully, my friends. Cassius, go into another street, and divide the crowd. Whoever wants to hear me, stay here. Those who prefer Cassius, go with him. We’ll give public explanations for why Caesar was killed.

First Citizen: I’ll listen to Brutus.

Second Citizen: I’ll listen to Cassius too and compare what they both say, once we’ve heard each of them separately.

Third Citizen: The noble Brutus has climbed up — be quiet!

Brutus: Please wait until I’ve finished. Romans, fellow citizens, and friends! Listen to me calmly so you can understand my reasons. Trust me because I am an honourable man, and respect that honour. Use your good sense and judge wisely what I say. If anyone here loved Caesar, know that I loved him just as much. If you ask why I killed Caesar, here’s my reason — it’s not because I loved Caesar less, but because I loved Rome more. Would you prefer that Caesar lived and all of us became slaves, or that he died and we remain free? I cry for his love, rejoice for his success, honour his bravery — but I killed him for his ambition. My tears show my love, my joy shows my pride in him, my honour shows my respect — but his ambition caused his death. Who here is so low that he would want to be a slave? If anyone, speak — that’s who I’ve offended. Who is so unpatriotic that he doesn’t want to be a Roman? If so, speak — that’s who I’ve offended. Who is so wicked that he doesn’t love his country? If anyone, speak — that’s who I’ve wronged. I’ll wait for your answer.

Citizens: No one, Brutus, no one!

Brutus: Then I’ve done no wrong. I did to Caesar only what you would do to me in the same case. The official record of his death is at the Capitol. His greatness hasn’t been lessened where he deserved praise, nor have his faults been exaggerated, though they caused his death. Here comes Caesar’s body, carried by Mark Antony, who grieves for him. Though Antony didn’t help kill him, he gains from his death a share in the new Republic. And so will all of you. I will leave you with this — I killed my best friend for the good of Rome, and I’ll use the same dagger on myself if my country ever needs me dead.

Citizens: Long live Brutus!

First Citizen: Let’s celebrate and escort him home with honour!

Second Citizen: Build him a statue beside his ancestors.

Third Citizen: Let him be Caesar.

Fourth Citizen: Brutus’s noble qualities should make him our new Caesar.

First Citizen: We’ll take him home with cheers and celebration.

Brutus: My countrymen—

Second Citizen: Quiet! Brutus is speaking.

First Citizen: Silence, please!

Brutus: My dear countrymen, let me go now. Please stay here with Antony. Show respect to Caesar’s body and listen to Antony’s speech about Caesar’s greatness. I ask that no one leave until Antony has spoken.

First Citizen: Stay! Let’s hear Mark Antony.

Third Citizen: Let him go up to the platform. We’ll listen to him. Noble Antony, go up.

Antony: For Brutus’s sake, I thank you.

Fourth Citizen: What did he say about Brutus?

Third Citizen: He says that, for Brutus’s sake, he feels grateful to us all.

Fourth Citizen: He’d better not say anything bad about Brutus here.

First Citizen: Caesar was a tyrant.

Third Citizen: Yes, that’s true. We’re lucky Rome is free of him.

Second Citizen: Quiet! Let’s hear what Antony has to say.

Antony: You kind Romans—

Citizens: Quiet! Let’s hear him.

 

Question 1. Multiple Choice Questions

1. Who speaks first in this scene?

A) Brutus B) Cassius C) Citizens D) Antony

Answer: C) Citizens

2. What do the Citizens demand at the beginning of the scene?

A) Money B) Satisfaction C) Revenge D) Silence

Answer: B) Satisfaction

3. What does Brutus ask Cassius to do?

A) Leave Rome B) Divide the crowd C) Attack Antony D) Bring Caesar’s body

Answer: B) Divide the crowd

4. What does “public reasons shall be rendered” mean?

A) Private talk will happen B) Caesar’s death will be explained publicly C) A fight will occur D) The play will end

Answer: B) Caesar’s death will be explained publicly

5. Where does Brutus go to speak?

A) The market B) The pulpit C) The Senate D) The temple

Answer: B) The pulpit

6. How does Brutus address the crowd?

A) “Friends, Romans, countrymen” B) “People of Rome” C) “Romans, countrymen, and lovers” D) “Citizens of Rome”

Answer: C) “Romans, countrymen, and lovers”

7. What does Brutus ask the people to believe him for?

A) His power B) His honour C) His wealth D) His knowledge

Answer: B) His honour

8. What does “Censure me in your wisdom” mean?

A) Punish me B) Judge me wisely C) Praise me D) Forgive me

Answer: B) Judge me wisely

9. What reason does Brutus give for killing Caesar?

A) He hated Caesar B) Caesar was sick C) Caesar was ambitious D) Cassius told him to

Answer: C) Caesar was ambitious

10. What contrast does Brutus make about Caesar’s life and Rome’s freedom?

A) Caesar rich or Rome poor B) Caesar living or Romans slaves C) Caesar weak or Romans strong D) Caesar dead or Rome peaceful

Answer: B) Caesar living or Romans slaves

11. What does Brutus say about Caesar’s ambition?

A) It made him kind B) It led to his death C) It made him poor D) It saved Rome

Answer: B) It led to his death

12. What is meant by “Who is here so base that would be a bondman?”

A) Who wants to be a soldier B) Who wants to be a slave C) Who wants to be rich D) Who wants to be king

Answer: B) Who wants to be a slave

13. How do the Citizens reply to Brutus’ questions?

A) They protest B) They keep silent C) They agree and shout “None, Brutus, none” D) They attack him

Answer: C) They agree and shout “None, Brutus, none”

14. What does Brutus say is enrolled in the Capitol?

A) The laws of Rome B) The reasons for Caesar’s death C) Caesar’s will D) Brutus’s speech

Answer: B) The reasons for Caesar’s death

15. What does Brutus say has not been extenuated?

A) Caesar’s glory B) Caesar’s crimes C) His own guilt D) Antony’s honour

Answer: A) Caesar’s glory

16. Who enters carrying Caesar’s body?

A) Cassius B) Antony C) Octavius D) Lepidus

Answer: B) Antony

17. What does Brutus call Antony in this scene?

A) An enemy B) A mourner C) A murderer D) A tyrant

Answer: B) A mourner

18. What “benefit” does Antony receive according to Brutus?

A) Wealth B) Revenge C) A place in the commonwealth D) Caesar’s crown

Answer: C) A place in the commonwealth

19. What does Brutus say he has the same dagger for?

A) To kill Antony B) To kill Cassius C) For himself if Rome needs it D) For the citizens

Answer: C) For himself if Rome needs it

20. How do the Citizens react after Brutus finishes speaking?

A) They shout angrily B) They cheer for Brutus C) They cry D) They leave

Answer: B) They cheer for Brutus

21. What do the Citizens want to do for Brutus?

A) Punish him B) Crown him C) Exile him D) Kill him

Answer: B) Crown him

22. What does one Citizen suggest for Brutus?

A) Build him a statue B) Send him to battle C) Make him Caesar’s slave D) Forget him

Answer: A) Build him a statue

23. What does Brutus ask the crowd to do after his speech?

A) Follow him home B) Leave the Forum C) Stay and listen to Antony D) Burn Caesar’s body

Answer: C) Stay and listen to Antony

24. What does Brutus call Caesar’s body?

A) His corpse B) His monument C) His treasure D) His crown

Answer: A) His corpse

25. What does Brutus ask the Citizens not to do?

A) Follow Antony B) Depart until Antony speaks C) Attack Antony D) Go to the Capitol

Answer: B) Depart until Antony speaks

26. What is Antony’s first line to the crowd?

A) “Friends, Romans, countrymen” B) “You gentle Romans” C) “People of Rome” D) “O mighty Caesar”

Answer: B) “You gentle Romans”

27. What is the Citizens’ reaction to Antony’s first words?

A) They shout “Peace, ho!” B) They attack him C) They ignore him D) They leave

Answer: A) They shout “Peace, ho!”

28. What does “beholding” mean in Antony’s speech?

A) Watching B) Indebted or grateful C) Angry D) Proud

Answer: B) Indebted or grateful

29. What opinion does one Citizen express about Caesar before Antony speaks?

A) Caesar was good B) Caesar was a tyrant C) Caesar was innocent D) Caesar was a fool

Answer: B) Caesar was a tyrant

30. What does the Third Citizen say Rome is now?

A) Blessed to be free of Caesar B) Cursed for his death C) Rich again D) Peaceful

Answer: A) Blessed to be free of Caesar

Question 2. One-Mark Questions

1. Who demanded satisfaction at the beginning of the scene?

Citizens

2. Who ordered Cassius to go into another street?

Brutus

3. Where does Brutus speak to the crowd?

From the pulpit

4. How does Brutus address the crowd first?

Romans, countrymen, and lovers

5. What does Brutus ask the crowd to do while he speaks?

Be silent and listen

6. Why does Brutus say he killed Caesar?

Because Caesar was ambitious

7. Whom does Brutus claim he loved equally to anyone else?

Caesar

8. What does Brutus say he loved more than Caesar?

Rome

9. What choice does Brutus present to the crowd—Caesar alive or Romans what?

Romans being slaves

10. What emotion does Brutus show for Caesar’s love?

Tears

11. What does Brutus feel for Caesar’s bravery?

Honour

12. What does Brutus feel for Caesar’s ambition?

He killed him

13. What does “bondman” mean in Brutus’s speech?

Slave

14. How do the citizens reply when Brutus pauses for a reply?

They shout, “None, Brutus, none.”

15. What does Brutus say has been recorded in the Capitol?

The reasons for Caesar’s death

16. Who enters carrying Caesar’s body?

Mark Antony

17. What does Brutus call Antony in his speech?

A mourner

18. What “benefit” will Antony receive from Caesar’s death?

A place in the commonwealth

19. What does Brutus say he has the same dagger for?

For himself if Rome needs his death

20. What do the citizens shout after Brutus’s speech?

“Live, Brutus! Live, live!”

21. What do the citizens want to build for Brutus?

A statue

22. What title do some citizens suggest giving Brutus?

Caesar

23. What does Brutus call the citizens at the end of his speech?

Good countrymen

24. What does Brutus ask the crowd to do for Antony?

Stay and hear his speech

25. What does Brutus call Caesar’s body?

Caesar’s corpse

26. Who is allowed to speak after Brutus leaves?

Mark Antony

27. What are Antony’s first words to the crowd?

You gentle Romans

28. What do the citizens say when Antony begins to speak?

Peace, ho! Let us hear him.

29. What does “beholding” mean in Antony’s line?

Indebted or grateful

30. What do the citizens say about Caesar before Antony’s speech?

They call him a tyrant

Question 3. “Who Said to Whom?”

1. “Then follow me, and give me audience, friends.”

Brutus said this to the Citizens.

2. “Cassius, go you into the other street, and part the numbers.”

Brutus said this to Cassius.

3. “I will hear Brutus speak.”

The First Citizen said this to the other Citizens.

4. “The noble Brutus is ascended: silence!”

The Third Citizen said this to the crowd.

5. “Romans, countrymen, and lovers! hear me for my cause.”

Brutus said this to the Citizens.

6. “If there be any in this assembly, any dear friend of Caesar’s, to him I say, that Brutus’ love to Caesar was no less than his.”

Brutus said this to the Citizens.

7. “Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more.”

Brutus said this to the Citizens.

8. “Who is here so base that would be a bondman?”

Brutus said this to the Citizens.

9. “None, Brutus, none.”

The Citizens said this to Brutus.

10. “Then none have I offended.”

Brutus said this to the Citizens.

11. “Here comes his body, mourned by Mark Antony.”

Brutus said this to the Citizens.

12. “Live, Brutus! live, live!”

The Citizens said this to Brutus.

13. “Bring him with triumph home unto his house.”

The First Citizen said this to the other Citizens.

14. “Give him a statue with his ancestors.”

The Second Citizen said this to the other Citizens.

15. “Good countrymen, let me depart alone, and, for my sake, stay here with Antony.”

Brutus said this to the Citizens.

16. “Stay, ho! and let us hear Mark Antony.”

The First Citizen said this to the other Citizens.

17. “For Brutus’ sake, I am beholding to you.”

Antony said this to the Citizens.

18. “He says, for Brutus’ sake, he finds himself beholding to us all.”

The Third Citizen said this to the Fourth Citizen.

19. “This Caesar was a tyrant.”

The First Citizen said this to the other Citizens.

20. “You gentle Romans—”

Antony said this to the Citizens.

Question 4. Reference to Context

Extract 1:

“Romans, countrymen, and lovers! hear me for my cause, and be silent, that you may hear.”

1. Who is the speaker?

Brutus.

2. To whom is he speaking?

To the Roman citizens.

3. Where is the speaker delivering this speech?

In the Forum.

4. What is the purpose of the speech?

To justify Caesar’s murder.

5. Why does he ask them to be silent?

So they can listen carefully to his explanation.

6. What word shows Brutus’ affection toward the people?

“Lovers.”

Extract 2:

“If there be any in this assembly, any dear friend of Caesar’s, to him I say that Brutus’ love to Caesar was no less than his.”

1. Who says this?

Brutus.

2. To whom is it said?

To the Citizens.

3. What does Brutus claim here?

That he loved Caesar as much as anyone else did.

4. What tone does the line show?

Affectionate and defensive.

5. Why does he mention “dear friend of Caesar”?

To address those who might oppose his act.

6. What was Brutus’ motive in killing Caesar?

He loved Rome more than Caesar.

Extract 3:

“Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more.”

1. Who speaks this line?

Brutus.

2. What contrast does he make?

Between his love for Caesar and his duty to Rome.

3. What does it reveal about Brutus’ character?

He is patriotic and idealistic.

4. How does this justify his action?

He suggests the killing was for Rome’s good.

5. What literary device is used here?

Antithesis.

6. How do the citizens react to this statement?

They cheer and support Brutus.

Extract 4:

“Had you rather Caesar were living and die all slaves, than that Caesar were dead to live all free men?”

1. Who said this?

Brutus.

2. Who is being addressed?

The Roman citizens.

3. What does the speaker mean by “die all slaves”?

Live under Caesar’s tyranny.

4. What contrast does Brutus present?

Slavery under Caesar vs. freedom after his death.

5. What appeal does Brutus use?

Emotional and patriotic appeal.

6. How do the citizens respond?

They support his reasoning.

Extract 5:

“As Caesar loved me, I weep for him; as he was fortunate, I rejoice at it; as he was valiant, I honour him; but, as he was ambitious, I slew him.”

1. Who speaks this?

Brutus.

2. To whom is it said?

To the crowd.

3. What feelings does Brutus show?

Balanced affection and duty.

4. What quality of Caesar is criticized here?

His ambition.

 

5. What does this line show about Brutus?

He is just and fair-minded.

6. What structure does the line follow?

Parallel structure.

Extract 6:

“Who is here so base that would be a bondman? If any, speak; for him have I offended.”

1. Who said this?

Brutus.

2. What does “bondman” mean?

Slave.

3. What is the purpose of this question?

To challenge any opposition.

4. How do the people reply?

They say, “None, Brutus, none.”

5. What is Brutus proving?

That he offended no loyal Roman.

6. What is the tone of this line?

Confident and persuasive.

Extract 7:

“Then none have I offended.”

1. Who says this?

Brutus.

2. What makes him say so?

No one admitted wanting to be a slave.

3. What is the mood of the crowd now?

They agree with Brutus.

4. What rhetorical device is used here?

Logical appeal.

5. What does this show about Brutus’ argument?

It convinces the people easily.

6. What happens immediately after?

Citizens praise Brutus.

Extract 8:

“Here comes his body, mourned by Mark Antony.”

1. Who says this?

Brutus.

2. Whose body is referred to?

Caesar’s.

3. Who is mourning him?

Antony.

4. Why does Brutus mention Antony here?

To introduce him to the crowd.

5. What does Brutus allow Antony to do?

Speak at Caesar’s funeral.

6. What does this reveal about Brutus’ nature?

Trusting and naive.

Extract 9:

“With this I depart: that, as I slew my best lover for the good of Rome, I have the same dagger for myself when it shall please my country to need my death.”

1. Who speaks this?

Brutus.

2. What does “lover” mean here?

Dear friend.

3. What does Brutus offer to do?

Kill himself if Rome demands.

4. What does this show about him?

His selflessness and honour.

5. How do citizens react?

They shout “Live, Brutus! Live, live!”

6. What emotion dominates this speech?

Patriotism.

Extract 10:

“Live, Brutus! live, live!”

1. Who speaks this?

The Citizens.

2. What are they responding to?

Brutus’ self-sacrificing statement.

3. What mood do they express?

Admiration and joy.

4. What does this show about the crowd?

They are easily influenced.

5. What title do they suggest for Brutus later?

Caesar.

6. What irony lies here?

They support another Caesar soon after rejecting one.

Extract 11:

“Good countrymen, let me depart alone, and, for my sake, stay here with Antony.”

1. Who says this?

Brutus.

2. To whom is he speaking?

The Citizens.

3. What does he request?

That they hear Antony’s speech peacefully.

4. Why does Brutus trust Antony?

He believes Antony will speak no harm.

5. How does Antony actually use this chance?

To turn the people against Brutus.

6. What does this show about Brutus?

He is innocent and unsuspecting.

Extract 12:

“For Brutus’ sake, I am beholding to you.”

1. Who says this?

Antony.

2. What does “beholding” mean?

Grateful or obliged.

3. Why does he say this?

To win the crowd’s favour politely.

4. What emotion does he show here?

Controlled grief.

5. What does the line hint at?

Antony’s strategy to manipulate the crowd.

6. What is the citizens’ reaction?

They feel flattered and supportive.

Extract 13:

“He says, for Brutus’ sake, he finds himself beholding to us all.”

1. Who says this?

The Third Citizen.

2. About whom is it said?

Antony.

3. What does the citizen believe Antony feels?

Gratitude to them.

4. What does this show about the citizens?

They misunderstand Antony’s intentions.

5. What tone does this line convey?

Naive admiration.

6. What will Antony soon do?

Change their loyalty completely.

Extract 14:

“This Caesar was a tyrant.”

1. Who says this?

The First Citizen.

2. What does he call Caesar?

A tyrant.

3. Why does he say this?

He believes Brutus’ words.

4. What does this show about public opinion?

It shifts quickly.

5. What kind of crowd is portrayed?

Fickle and emotional.

6. How will this view soon change?

Antony will make them mourn Caesar.

Extract 15:

“You gentle Romans—”

1. Who speaks this?

Antony.

2. To whom is it said?

The Citizens.

3. How does he address them?

Kindly and respectfully.

4. What is Antony’s tone here?

Soft, persuasive, and mournful.

5. What does this opening show about Antony?

His skill in winning sympathy.

6. What will his speech eventually achieve?

The turning of the crowd against Brutus and the conspirators

Question 5. Two-Mark Questions

1. Why does Brutus address the citizens before Antony?

Brutus speaks first to justify Caesar’s assassination, presenting himself as patriotic, honest, and motivated by Rome’s welfare. He aims to gain the crowd’s trust, explain Caesar’s ambition, and show that his act was for the public good, not personal gain, preparing the citizens to listen to Antony afterwards.

2. What reason does Brutus give for killing Caesar?

Brutus claims he loved Caesar but loved Rome more. He killed Caesar not out of hatred but because Caesar’s ambition threatened Roman freedom. His justification appeals to logic and patriotism, portraying the assassination as necessary to prevent tyranny and protect the republic’s liberty and citizens’ rights.

3. How does Brutus gain the crowd’s support?

Brutus appeals to reason, patriotism, and fairness. He frames Caesar’s ambition as dangerous and positions himself as loyal to Rome. By asking rhetorical questions and addressing potential objections, he convinces the citizens he acted for the common good, earning their trust and immediate approval.

4. What is the significance of “bondman” in Brutus’ speech?

“Bondman” refers to a slave. Brutus uses it rhetorically to remind citizens that Caesar’s ambition could enslave them. By contrasting freedom with servitude, he appeals to their fear and patriotism, strengthening his argument that Caesar’s death ensures liberty for Rome and justifies the conspirators’ actions.

5. How does Brutus show fairness toward Caesar’s virtues?

Brutus acknowledges Caesar’s love, bravery, and fortune, expressing tears, honour, and joy. By separating his respect for Caesar’s qualities from his condemnation of ambition, he demonstrates fairness, making his argument morally convincing and showing that the assassination is a reluctant but necessary act for Rome’s benefit.

6. What role does Antony play in this scene?

Antony arrives to mourn Caesar and address the citizens. Though he did not participate in the assassination, Antony’s speech foreshadows manipulation. He begins respectfully, appearing loyal to Brutus, which allows him to gradually turn the crowd’s anger against the conspirators, setting the stage for political upheaval.

7. How do the citizens respond to Brutus’ speech?

They cheer, shout “Live, Brutus! Live, live!” and suggest honours like statues. The crowd immediately supports Brutus, showing their trust in his justification, admiration for his patriotism, and willingness to accept his reasoning without question, highlighting their emotional and impressionable nature.

8. Why does Brutus ask citizens to stay for Antony’s speech?

Brutus requests that the people remain to hear Antony, trusting him to speak respectfully. He wants to show fairness and control the narrative, believing Antony will not incite unrest. This decision, though well-intentioned, allows Antony to sway public opinion against the conspirators.

9. What rhetorical strategies does Brutus use in his speech?

Brutus uses ethos by claiming honour and moral integrity, pathos by evoking loyalty to Rome and fear of tyranny, and rhetorical questions to engage citizens. His logical argument and respectful tone make the assassination seem necessary and just, appealing to both reason and emotion.

10. How does Brutus separate Caesar’s ambition from his virtues?

Brutus praises Caesar’s love, bravery, and fortune while condemning ambition. This distinction portrays him as fair and just, showing he respected Caesar personally but acted for Rome’s good. It strengthens his credibility and prevents citizens from seeing the assassination as personal malice.

11. What is Antony’s tone when he first speaks?

Antony begins respectfully and gently, addressing Romans as “gentle.” His tone is polite and mournful, appearing loyal to Brutus while subtly hinting at Caesar’s virtues. This calm, persuasive opening allows Antony to gain trust before manipulating the crowd emotionally.

12. Why does Antony call the citizens “gentle Romans”?

He uses flattery to gain the crowd’s trust, portraying them as reasonable and noble. This respectful address softens their emotions, preparing them to listen carefully to Antony’s speech and making them more susceptible to persuasion against the conspirators.

13. How do the citizens react to Antony’s words initially?

They respond politely with “Peace, ho! Let us hear him.” Their curiosity and respect show they trust Brutus’ decision to allow Antony to speak, illustrating the crowd’s impressionable and obedient nature, unaware of Antony’s eventual manipulation.

14. What is the dramatic purpose of Brutus’ speech?

Brutus’ speech provides moral justification for Caesar’s murder, sets the audience’s perception, and contrasts with Antony’s cunning rhetoric. It creates dramatic tension, showing Brutus’ honourable motives while foreshadowing the crowd’s eventual shift of loyalty due to Antony’s persuasive skill.

15. How does Brutus show willingness to die for Rome?

Brutus declares he will use the same dagger on himself if the country demands it. This statement of self-sacrifice reinforces his honourable image, convincing citizens of his sincerity and patriotic motives, and elevates him as a model of civic virtue and responsibility.

Question 6. Three-Mark Questions

1. How does Brutus justify Caesar’s assassination to the citizens?

Brutus justifies Caesar’s murder by claiming it was for Rome’s welfare, not personal gain. He emphasizes that Caesar’s ambition threatened freedom and contrasts his own love for Caesar with his greater love for Rome. Through logical argument, moral reasoning, and appeal to patriotism, he frames the act as necessary. By praising Caesar’s virtues while condemning his ambition, Brutus presents himself as fair, honourable, and trustworthy, earning the citizens’ immediate support.

2. What rhetorical devices does Brutus use in his speech?

Brutus uses ethos to highlight his honour, pathos to evoke fear of tyranny and pride in Rome, and rhetorical questions to engage citizens. Parallelism structures his praise of Caesar’s virtues versus his ambition. These devices strengthen his logical, moral, and emotional appeals, convincing the citizens that Caesar’s death was just, making his argument persuasive and his character appear noble, selfless, and dedicated to the republic.

3. How does Brutus contrast Caesar’s ambition with his other qualities?

Brutus separates Caesar’s personal virtues—love, bravery, and fortune—from his dangerous ambition. He expresses grief, honour, and joy for these qualities while presenting ambition as the reason for Caesar’s death. This distinction portrays Brutus as just and fair-minded, emphasizing that his act was necessary for Rome’s freedom, not motivated by envy or hatred. It enhances his credibility and moral authority, making the citizens see the assassination as a reluctant but noble duty.

4. How do the citizens react to Brutus’ speech and why?

The citizens respond enthusiastically, cheering “Live, Brutus! Live, live!” and suggesting honours like statues. They trust Brutus’ explanation, impressed by his patriotism, honesty, and fairness. His emotional appeals and logical reasoning sway the crowd, showing their impressionable nature. The immediate

approval highlights Brutus’ rhetorical skill but also foreshadows their susceptibility to Antony’s future manipulation, illustrating the volatile nature of public opinion.

5. What is the significance of Brutus asking citizens to stay for Antony’s speech?

Brutus requests that citizens remain to hear Antony, trusting him to speak respectfully. This shows Brutus’ fairness and confidence, believing Antony will not incite unrest. Dramatically, it allows Antony to manipulate the crowd and turn public opinion against the conspirators, highlighting Brutus’ naivety and the theme of trust versus cunning in leadership and rhetoric.

6. How does Antony manipulate the crowd’s emotions?

Antony begins with respectful, mournful speech, flattering the citizens as “gentle Romans.” By acknowledging Brutus’ honour, he gains trust, then gradually evokes grief, loyalty, and anger through Caesar’s virtues, will, and body. Antony’s careful pathos incites the crowd against the conspirators, demonstrating his rhetorical skill and the power of persuasive language to influence public opinion and provoke political chaos.

7. How does Brutus present himself as a moral character?

Brutus emphasizes honour, fairness, and patriotism. He acknowledges Caesar’s virtues, condemns only ambition, and shows willingness to die for Rome. His logical and emotional appeals demonstrate rationality and civic duty. By presenting the assassination as reluctant and necessary, Brutus establishes credibility, moral authority, and public trust, making the citizens view him as a noble, selfless leader devoted to the republic.

8. How does Antony use irony in his speech?

Antony begins praising Brutus while secretly undermining him, claiming Caesar was ambitious yet highlighting his virtues. He feigns respect and mourning, subtly blaming the conspirators, creating dramatic irony: the citizens trust Antony’s apparent loyalty while the audience knows he plans to incite them. This technique builds suspense, engages the audience, and shows Antony’s cunning rhetorical mastery.

9. What is the dramatic effect of Brutus and Antony’s contrasting speeches?

Brutus’ speech is logical, calm, and honourable, earning immediate approval. Antony’s speech is emotional, cunning, and manipulative, gradually turning the crowd. The contrast heightens tension, demonstrates the power of rhetoric, and foreshadows chaos. It engages the audience, shows different leadership styles, and explores themes of loyalty, persuasion, and public influence, illustrating the fragility of reason in the face of emotion.

10. How does Shakespeare portray the crowd in this scene?

The citizens are portrayed as impressionable, emotional, and easily swayed. They cheer Brutus immediately but will later follow Antony’s manipulation. This highlights the volatility of public opinion, the power of rhetoric, and the danger of mob mentality. Shakespeare uses the crowd to show how persuasive speech can shape political events and how citizens’ loyalty can shift rapidly under emotional influence.

 

COURTESY: Meta AI & ChatGPT

Compiled by Dr. Shankar D Mishra

 

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