About Two Cinnas and the Poet in Julius Caesar

* There are two different poets in Shakespeare's Julius Caesar.

1. Cinna the Poet – Act III, Scene III: He is an innocent Roman citizen who is mistakenly identified as Cinna the conspirator (one of the assassins). The angry mob attacks and kills him.

2. The Poet – Act IV, Scene III: He appears in Brutus's tent and interrupts the quarrel between Brutus and Cassius. He tries to reconcile them, but Cassius and Brutus dismiss him.

They are two separate characters, not the same person. Cinna the Poet is killed in Act III, whereas the unnamed Poet appears in Act IV.

For students: Shakespeare does not give the Poet in Act IV a personal name.

**There was a conspirator named Cinna, one of the assassins involved in the conspiracy against Julius Caesar.

In Julius Caesar, Shakespeare presents two different characters:

Cinna the Conspirator: One of the conspirators who participates in the assassination of Caesar (Act III, Scene I).

Cinna the Poet: An innocent Roman citizen who is mistaken for the conspirator because they share the same name. The angry mob kills him (Act III, Scene III).

Thus, there are two different characters named Cinna: one is an assassin and the other is a poet.

To conclude, There are three separate characters:

Cinna the Conspirator (Assassin) – Act III, Scene I.

Cinna the Poet – Act III, Scene III. He is mistakenly killed by the mob.

The Poet (Unnamed) – Act IV, Scene III. He appears in Brutus's tent and tries to reconcile Brutus and Cassius.

Therefore, there are three characters in total: two named Cinna and one unnamed Poet.

Julius Caesar, Act 1, Scene III, Part 1 Evergreen book, Page: 48 to 52

Julius Caesar, Act 1, Scene III, Part 1 Evergreen book, Page: 48 to 52
Cicero: Good even, Casca: Brought you Caesar home? ..................Casca: And he shall wear his crown by sea and land, In every place save here in Italy.
Glossary
Thunder and lightning: A storm accompanied by thunder and flashes of lightning / गरज और बिजली चमकने वाला तूफ़ान / ଘଡ଼ଘଡ଼ି ସହିତ ବିଜୁଳି ଚମକୁଥିବା ଝଡ଼।

Sword drawn: A sword taken out of its sheath and held ready in the hand. म्यान से बाहर निकली हुई तलवार / ମ୍ୟାନରୁ ବାହାର କରାଯାଇଥିବା ଖଣ୍ଡା।

Good even: Good evening / शुभ संध्या / ଶୁଭ ସନ୍ଧ୍ୟା।

Brought you Caesar home? Did you accompany Caesar home? / क्या तुम सीज़र को घर तक छोड़कर आए? / ତୁମେ କ’ଣ ସିଜରଙ୍କୁ ଘର ପର୍ଯ୍ୟନ୍ତ ଛାଡ଼ି ଆସିଲ?
Breathless: Unable to breathe normally after running or exertion / हाँफता हुआ, साँस फूलना / ଧଇଁସଇଁ ହେବା, ଶ୍ୱାସ ଫୁଲିଯିବା।
Stare: To look fixedly or with wide-open eyes / एकटक देखना / ଏକଦୃଷ୍ଟିରେ ଚାହିଁବା।
Moved: Emotionally affected or disturbed / प्रभावित, विचलित / ପ୍ରଭାବିତ, ବିଚଳିତ।
Sway: Movement from side to side / डगमगाहट, हिलना-डुलना / ଦୋହଲିବା, ଟଳମଳ ହେବା।
All the sway of earth: The whole earth shaking violently / पूरी पृथ्वी का जोर से हिलना / ସମଗ୍ର ପୃଥିବୀ ଜୋର୍‌ରେ ଦୋହଲିବା।
Unfirm: Unsteady; not stable or firmly fixed / अस्थिर, डगमगाता हुआ / ଅସ୍ଥିର, ଟଳମଳ।
Tempests: Violent storms / भयंकर तूफ़ान / ପ୍ରବଳ ଝଡ଼।
Scolding winds: Fierce, raging or violently blowing winds / प्रचण्ड और गरजती हुई हवाएँ / ପ୍ରଚଣ୍ଡ ଓ ଗର୍ଜନଶୀଳ ପବନ।
Rived: Split or torn apart / चीर दिया, फाड़ दिया / ଚିରିଦେଲା, ଫାଡ଼ିଦେଲା।
Knotty oaks: Oak trees with twisted, hard and thick branches / गाँठदार शाखाओं वाले बलूत के पेड़ / ଗଣ୍ଠିଆ ଡାଳ ଥିବା ବଳୂତ ଗଛ।
Ambitious ocean: The ocean personified as if it were ambitious to rise higher / ऊँचा उठने की आकांक्षा रखने वाला समुद्र / ଆହୁରି ଉଚ୍ଚକୁ ଉଠିବାକୁ ଆକାଂକ୍ଷା କରୁଥିବା ସମୁଦ୍ର।
Swell: To rise or increase in size, especially due to waves / फूलना, ऊँचा उठना / ଫୁଲି ଉଠିବା, ଉଚ୍ଚ ହେବା।
Rage: To become violently rough or furious / प्रचण्ड रूप धारण करना, उग्र होना / ଉଗ୍ର ରୂପ ଧାରଣ କରିବା।
Foam: To produce masses of white bubbles on the surface of water / झाग उत्पन्न करना / ଫେଣ ସୃଷ୍ଟି କରିବା।
Exalted: Raised or lifted to a great height / ऊँचा उठाया हुआ / ଉଚ୍ଚକୁ ଉଠାଯାଇଥିବା।
Threatening clouds: Clouds suggesting an approaching storm / तूफ़ान का संकेत देने वाले बादल / ଝଡ଼ର ସୂଚନା ଦେଉଥିବା ମେଘ।
Dropping fire: Producing flashes of lightning that appear like falling fire / आग बरसाना, आग की तरह बिजली गिरना / ନିଆଁ ବର୍ଷା କରିବା ପରି ବିଜୁଳି ଚମକିବା।
Civil strife: Conflict or quarrel among members of the same community or society / आंतरिक संघर्ष, गृहकलह / ଆଭ୍ୟନ୍ତରୀଣ କଳହ, ଗୃହଯୁଦ୍ଧ।
Saucy: Bold, insolent or disrespectful / धृष्ट, उद्दण्ड / ଧୃଷ୍ଟ, ଔଦ୍ଧତ୍ୟପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ।
Too saucy with the gods: Showing excessive boldness or disrespect towards the gods / देवताओं के प्रति अत्यधिक धृष्टता दिखाना / ଦେବତାମାନଙ୍କ ପ୍ରତି ଅତ୍ୟଧିକ ଧୃଷ୍ଟତା ପ୍ରଦର୍ଶନ କରିବା।
Incenses: Makes extremely angry or provokes / क्रोधित करता है, उत्तेजित करता है / କ୍ରୋଧିତ କରେ, ଉତ୍ତେଜିତ କରେ।
Send destruction: To cause ruin or devastation / विनाश भेजना, तबाही मचाना / ବିନାଶ ଘଟାଇବା, ଧ୍ୱଂସ ଆଣିବା।
Wonderful: Strange, extraordinary or astonishing / आश्चर्यजनक, असाधारण / ଆଶ୍ଚର୍ଯ୍ୟଜନକ, ଅସାଧାରଣ।
Common slave: An ordinary slave / एक साधारण दास / ଜଣେ ସାଧାରଣ ଦାସ।
Held up: Raised or lifted / ऊपर उठाया / ଉପରକୁ ଉଠାଇଲା।
Flame: To burn with a bright fire or glow / ज्वाला से जलना, लपट उठना / ଜ୍ୱାଳା ସହିତ ଜଳିବା।
Torches: Sticks or devices carrying burning material to provide light / मशालें / ମଶାଲ।
Joined: United or combined together / जुड़ी हुई, एक साथ मिली हुई / ଏକାଠି ମିଶିଥିବା।
Sensible of fire: Able to feel or be affected by fire / आग का एहसास करने वाला / ନିଆଁର ତାପ ଅନୁଭବ କରିପାରୁଥିବା।
Remained unscorched: Stayed without being burnt or damaged by fire / बिना झुलसे रहा / ନ ପୋଡ଼ି ଅକ୍ଷତ ରହିଲା।
Besides: Moreover; in addition / इसके अतिरिक्त, इसके अलावा / ଏହା ବ୍ୟତୀତ, ତାହାଛଡ଼ା।
Ha’ not: An abbreviated form of 'have not' / नहीं किया है / କରିନାହିଁ।
Put up my sword: Put my sword back into its sheath / अपनी तलवार म्यान में वापस रखी / ନିଜ ଖଣ୍ଡାକୁ ଖୋଳରେ ପୁଣି ରଖିଲି।
Against the Capitol: Near or in front of the Capitol, the important Roman government building / कैपिटोल भवन के पास / କ୍ୟାପିଟୋଲ୍ ଭବନ ନିକଟରେ।
Glazed upon me: Looked at me with a fixed or piercing gaze / मुझे एकटक घूरकर देखा / ମୋତେ ଏକଦୃଷ୍ଟିରେ ଚାହିଁଲା।
Surly: Bad-tempered, unfriendly or threatening in manner / चिड़चिड़ा, रूखा, क्रोधपूर्ण / ରୁକ୍ଷ, କ୍ରୋଧୀ, ଅମିତ୍ରଭାବାପନ୍ନ।
Went surly by: Passed by in a threatening or unfriendly manner / रूखे और क्रोधपूर्ण ढंग से आगे बढ़ गया / ରୁକ୍ଷ ଓ କ୍ରୋଧପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ ଭାବରେ ଚାଲିଗଲା।
Without annoying me: Without harming or attacking me / मुझे परेशान या नुकसान पहुँचाए बिना / ମୋତେ ବିରକ୍ତ ବା କ୍ଷତି ନ ପହଞ୍ଚାଇ।
Drawn upon a heap: Gathered together in a group or crowd / एक स्थान पर झुंड के रूप में इकट्ठी हुईं / ଗୋଟିଏ ସ୍ଥାନରେ ଦଳବଦ୍ଧ ଭାବେ ଏକାଠି ହୋଇଥିଲେ।
Heap: A collection or pile of things; here, a gathered group / ढेर, समूह / ଗଦା, ଗୋଷ୍ଠୀ।
Ghastly: Frightening, horrifying or terrifying / भयानक, डरावना / ଭୟଙ୍କର, ବିଭତ୍ସ।
Transformed: Changed completely in appearance or condition / परिवर्तित, पूरी तरह बदल गईं / ପରିବର୍ତ୍ତିତ, ସମ୍ପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ ବଦଳିଯାଇଥିବା।
Transformed with their fear: So frightened that their appearance had changed / भय से जिनका रूप बदल गया था / ଭୟରେ ଯେଉଁମାନଙ୍କ ଚେହେରା ବଦଳିଯାଇଥିଲା।
Swore: Declared solemnly or firmly; asserted / शपथपूर्वक कहा, दृढ़तापूर्वक दावा किया / ଶପଥ କରି କହିଲେ, ଦୃଢ଼ ଭାବରେ ଦାବି କଲେ।
All in fire: Completely surrounded or covered with flames / पूरी तरह आग से घिरे हुए / ସମ୍ପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ ନିଆଁରେ ଘେରି ହୋଇଥିବା।
Walk up and down: Move repeatedly from one place to another / इधर-उधर टहलना / ଏପଟ ସେପଟ ଚାଲିବା।
Bird of night: The owl, traditionally regarded as a bird of ill omen / उल्लू, जिसे अशुभ संकेत का पक्षी माना जाता है / ପେଚା, ଯାହାକୁ ଅଶୁଭ ସଙ୍କେତର ପକ୍ଷୀ ବୋଲି ଧରାଯାଏ।
Even at noonday: Even in the middle of the day / दिन के ठीक दोपहर में भी / ଦିନ ଦ୍ୱିପ୍ରହରରେ ମଧ୍ୟ।
Marketplace: An open public place where people buy and sell goods / बाज़ार, मंडी / ବଜାର, ହାଟ।
Hooting: Making the characteristic call of an owl / उल्लू की आवाज़ निकालना / ପେଚା ପରି ହୁକ୍‌ହୁକ୍‌ ଶବ୍ଦ କରିବା।
Shrieking: Making a loud, sharp and high-pitched cry / तीखी और तेज़ चीखना / ତୀବ୍ର ଓ ଉଚ୍ଚ ସ୍ୱରରେ ଚିତ୍କାର କରିବା।
Prodigies: Extraordinary and unusual events believed to be signs of future happenings / अद्भुत और असामान्य घटनाएँ, जिन्हें भविष्य का संकेत माना जाता है / ଅସାଧାରଣ ଓ ଅଦ୍ଭୁତ ଘଟଣା, ଯାହାକୁ ଭବିଷ୍ୟତର ସଙ୍କେତ ବୋଲି ଧରାଯାଏ।
Conjointly: Together; at the same time / एक साथ, संयुक्त रूप से / ଏକାଠି, ମିଳିତ ଭାବରେ।
Meet: Occur together or happen simultaneously / एक साथ घटित होना / ଏକାସାଙ୍ଗରେ ଘଟିବା।
Natural: According to the ordinary laws of nature / प्राकृतिक, प्रकृति के नियमों के अनुसार / ପ୍ରାକୃତିକ, ପ୍ରକୃତିର ନିୟମ ଅନୁସାରେ।
Portentous: Serving as a warning or sign of something important or disastrous in the future / भविष्य में किसी महत्त्वपूर्ण या विनाशकारी घटना का पूर्वसंकेत देने वाला / ଭବିଷ୍ୟତର କୌଣସି ଗୁରୁତ୍ୱପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ ବା ବିପଦଜନକ ଘଟଣାର ପୂର୍ବସୂଚନା ଦେଉଥିବା।
Unto: To; towards / की ओर, के लिए / ପ୍ରତି, ଆଡ଼କୁ।
Climate: Region or geographical area; here, the place or land affected by the signs / प्रदेश, क्षेत्र / ଅଞ୍ଚଳ, ଭୂଭାଗ।
Point upon: Refer or direct attention towards / की ओर संकेत करना / ଆଡ଼କୁ ସୂଚିତ କରିବା।
Strange-disposed: Unusual or strangely arranged / विचित्र परिस्थितियों वाला / ଅସ୍ୱାଭାବିକ ପରିସ୍ଥିତିପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ।
Construe: Interpret or understand the meaning of something / अर्थ लगाना, व्याख्या करना / ଅର୍ଥ ବୁଝିବା, ବ୍ୟାଖ୍ୟା କରିବା।
After their fashion: According to their own way or manner / अपने-अपने ढंग से / ନିଜ ନିଜ ଢଙ୍ଗରେ।
Clean from: Completely separate or detached from / से पूरी तरह अलग / ଠାରୁ ସମ୍ପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ ଭିନ୍ନ ବା ଅଲଗା।
Purpose: Intended meaning or real significance / उद्देश्य, वास्तविक आशय / ଉଦ୍ଦେଶ୍ୟ, ପ୍ରକୃତ ଅଭିପ୍ରାୟ।
The things themselves: The actual nature or significance of the events / उन घटनाओं का वास्तविक स्वरूप / ସେହି ଘଟଣାଗୁଡ଼ିକର ପ୍ରକୃତ ସ୍ୱରୂପ।
Doth: An archaic form of 'does' / करता है / କରେ।
Bid: Ordered or instructed / आदेश दिया / ଆଦେଶ ଦେଲେ।
Send word: To communicate a message / संदेश भेजना / ସନ୍ଦେଶ ପଠାଇବା।
Disturbed sky: A stormy and unsettled sky / अशांत और तूफ़ानी आकाश / ଅଶାନ୍ତ ଓ ଝଡ଼ୁଆ ଆକାଶ।
Is not to walk in: Is not suitable or safe for walking / टहलने के लिए उपयुक्त या सुरक्षित नहीं है / ଚାଲିବା ବା ବୁଲିବା ପାଇଁ ଉପଯୁକ୍ତ ବା ନିରାପଦ ନୁହେଁ।
Exit Cicero: Cicero leaves the stage / सिसरो मंच से चला जाता है / ସିସେରୋ ମଞ୍ଚ ଛାଡ଼ି ଚାଲିଯାଆନ୍ତି।
Enter Cassius: Cassius comes onto the stage / कैसियस मंच पर प्रवेश करता है / କାସିଅସ୍ ମଞ୍ଚକୁ ପ୍ରବେଶ କରେ।
By your voice: I recognise you from your voice / तुम्हारी आवाज़ से पहचान लिया / ତୁମ ସ୍ୱରରୁ ଚିହ୍ନିପାରିଲି।
Your ear is good: You have a good sense of hearing / तुम्हारी सुनने की शक्ति अच्छी है / ତୁମର ଶ୍ରବଣଶକ୍ତି ଭଲ।
Pleasing: Pleasant; agreeable / सुखद, मनभावन / ଆନନ୍ଦଦାୟକ, ମନୋରମ।
Menace: To threaten or indicate danger / धमकाना, संकट का संकेत देना / ଧମକ ଦେବା, ବିପଦର ସଙ୍କେତ ଦେବା।
Heavens menace: The sky appears to threaten people through its frightening signs / आकाश भयानक संकेतों द्वारा लोगों को धमकाता हुआ प्रतीत होता है / ଆକାଶ ଭୟଙ୍କର ସଙ୍କେତ ମାଧ୍ୟମରେ ଲୋକମାନଙ୍କୁ ଧମକ ଦେଉଥିବା ପରି ମନେହୁଏ।
Full of faults: Full of wrongs, evils or moral weaknesses / बुराइयों और दोषों से भरी हुई / ଦୋଷ ଓ ଅନ୍ୟାୟରେ ପରିପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ।
For my part: As far as I am concerned / जहाँ तक मेरा संबंध है / ମୋ କଥା କହିବାକୁ ଗଲେ।
Submitting me unto: Exposing myself to or willingly facing / अपने आपको सामने प्रस्तुत करना / ନିଜକୁ ସମ୍ମୁଖୀନ କରାଇବା।
Perilous: Dangerous; full of risks / खतरनाक, जोखिमपूर्ण / ବିପଦପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ, ଝୁମ୍ପପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ।
Unbraced: With clothes loosened or the upper garment unfastened / वस्त्रों को ढीला या खुला करके / ପୋଷାକକୁ ଢିଲା ବା ଖୋଲା କରି।
Bared my bosom: Exposed my chest / अपनी छाती खोल दी / ନିଜ ଛାତିକୁ ଖୋଲିଦେଲି।
Bosom: Chest; breast / छाती, वक्षस्थल / ଛାତି, ବକ୍ଷସ୍ଥଳ।
Thunder-stone: A poetic expression for a thunderbolt or lightning strike / वज्रपात, बिजली का प्रहार / ବଜ୍ରପାତ, ବିଜୁଳିର ଆଘାତ।
Cross blue lightning: A vivid flash of blue lightning cutting across the sky / आकाश में चमकती हुई नीली बिजली की चमक / ଆକାଶକୁ ଚିରି ଚମକୁଥିବା ନୀଳ ବିଜୁଳି।
Breast of heaven: The sky imagined as a living being having a chest / आकाश की छाती / ଆକାଶର ବକ୍ଷସ୍ଥଳ।
Present myself: Place or expose myself / अपने आपको प्रस्तुत करना / ନିଜକୁ ଉପସ୍ଥାପନ କରିବା।
Aim: The direction towards which something is directed / निशाना, लक्ष्य / ଲକ୍ଷ୍ୟ, ନିଶାନା।
Very flash of it: The exact moment when the lightning flashed / बिजली चमकने का ठीक वही क्षण / ବିଜୁଳି ଚମକିବାର ଠିକ୍ ସେହି ମୁହୂର୍ତ୍ତ।
Wherefore: Why; for what reason / क्यों, किस कारण से / କାହିଁକି, କେଉଁ କାରଣରୁ।
Tempt the heavens: To challenge or provoke the gods by exposing oneself to danger / देवताओं को चुनौती देना या उन्हें क्रोधित करने का जोखिम उठाना / ଦେବତାମାନଙ୍କୁ ଆହ୍ୱାନ କରିବା ବା ସେମାନଙ୍କୁ କ୍ରୋଧିତ କରିବାର ସାହସ କରିବା।
Part of men: The proper duty or natural behaviour of human beings / मनुष्यों का उचित कर्तव्य या स्वाभाविक व्यवहार / ମନୁଷ୍ୟମାନଙ୍କର ଉଚିତ କର୍ତ୍ତବ୍ୟ ବା ସ୍ୱାଭାବିକ ଆଚରଣ।
Fear and tremble: To be extremely frightened / भयभीत होकर काँपना / ଭୟରେ ଥରିବା।
Most mighty gods: The extremely powerful gods / अत्यन्त शक्तिशाली देवता / ଅତ୍ୟନ୍ତ ଶକ୍ତିଶାଳୀ ଦେବତାମାନେ।
Tokens: Signs or indications / संकेत, चिह्न / ସଙ୍କେତ, ଲକ୍ଷଣ।
Heralds: Messengers or announcements of something about to happen / संदेशवाहक, किसी घटना के आने की सूचना देने वाले / ବାର୍ତ୍ତାବହ, ଆଗାମୀ ଘଟଣାର ସୂଚନାଦାତା।
Dreadful heralds: Terrifying signs announcing an approaching danger or disaster / आने वाले संकट या विनाश की सूचना देने वाले भयानक संकेत / ଆଗାମୀ ବିପଦ ବା ବିନାଶର ସୂଚନା ଦେଉଥିବା ଭୟଙ୍କର ସଙ୍କେତ।
Astonish: To surprise greatly / अत्यधिक आश्चर्यचकित करना / ଅତ୍ୟନ୍ତ ଆଶ୍ଚର୍ଯ୍ୟଚକିତ କରିବା।
Dull: Slow to understand; lacking alertness or intelligence / मंदबुद्धि, समझने में धीमा / ମନ୍ଦବୁଦ୍ଧି, ବୁଝିବାରେ ଧୀର।
Sparks of life: The qualities of courage, energy and spirit / साहस, ऊर्जा और उत्साह के गुण / ସାହସ, ଶକ୍ତି ଓ ଉତ୍ସାହର ଗୁଣ।
You do want: You lack / तुममें कमी है / ତୁମଠାରେ ଅଭାବ ରହିଛି।
Or else you use not: Or you do not make use of them / अथवा तुम उनका उपयोग नहीं करते / ନଚେତ୍ ତୁମେ ସେଗୁଡ଼ିକର ବ୍ୟବହାର କରୁନାହଁ।
Put on fear: Display or show fear / भय प्रकट करना / ଭୟ ପ୍ରକାଶ କରିବା।
Cast yourself in wonder: Become filled with amazement or astonishment / स्वयं को आश्चर्य में डुबो लेना / ଆଶ୍ଚର୍ଯ୍ୟରେ ଅଭିଭୂତ ହେବା।
Strange impatience of the heavens: The unusual and violent behaviour of the sky / आकाश का असामान्य और उग्र व्यवहार / ଆକାଶର ଅସ୍ୱାଭାବିକ ଓ ଉଗ୍ର ଆଚରଣ।
Consider: Think carefully about / गंभीरता से विचार करना / ଗଭୀର ଭାବରେ ବିଚାର କରିବା।
True cause: The actual reason / वास्तविक कारण / ପ୍ରକୃତ କାରଣ।
Gliding ghosts: Ghostly figures believed to move silently or smoothly through the air or streets / सरकते हुए भूतिया प्रेत / ଧୀରେ ଧୀରେ ଗତି କରୁଥିବା ଭୂତପ୍ରେତ।
Birds and beasts: Birds and animals / पक्षी और पशु / ପକ୍ଷୀ ଓ ପଶୁ।
From quality and kind: Different from their usual nature and characteristics / अपने सामान्य गुण और स्वभाव से भिन्न / ନିଜର ସାଧାରଣ ଗୁଣ ଓ ସ୍ୱଭାବଠାରୁ ଭିନ୍ନ।
Fools: People lacking good sense or judgement / मूर्ख व्यक्ति / ମୂର୍ଖ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତି।
Calculate: To make predictions or foretell future events; here, to practise fortune-telling / भविष्यवाणी करना, भविष्य का अनुमान लगाना / ଭବିଷ୍ୟବାଣୀ କରିବା, ଭବିଷ୍ୟତର ଅନୁମାନ କରିବା।
Ordinance: Established order or natural arrangement / निर्धारित व्यवस्था, प्राकृतिक नियम / ନିର୍ଦ୍ଧାରିତ ବ୍ୟବସ୍ଥା, ପ୍ରାକୃତିକ ନିୟମ।
Change from their ordinance: Depart from their usual or natural order / अपनी सामान्य या प्राकृतिक व्यवस्था से हट जाना / ନିଜର ସାଧାରଣ ବା ପ୍ରାକୃତିକ ବ୍ୟବସ୍ଥାରୁ ବିଚ୍ୟୁତ ହେବା।
Natures: Natural qualities or characteristics / स्वाभाविक गुण या प्रकृति / ସ୍ୱାଭାବିକ ଗୁଣ ବା ପ୍ରକୃତି।
Preformed faculties: Inborn or naturally established abilities and characteristics / जन्मजात या स्वाभाविक रूप से प्राप्त क्षमताएँ और विशेषताएँ / ଜନ୍ମଗତ ବା ସ୍ୱାଭାବିକ ଭାବେ ମିଳିଥିବା କ୍ଷମତା ଓ ବୈଶିଷ୍ଟ୍ୟ।
Monstrous: Abnormal, unnatural or extremely strange / विकराल, अस्वाभाविक, विचित्र / ବିକଟ, ଅସ୍ୱାଭାବିକ, ବିଚିତ୍ର।
Monstrous quality: An abnormal or unnatural condition / असामान्य या अप्राकृतिक अवस्था / ଅସ୍ୱାଭାବିକ ଅବସ୍ଥା।
Heaven hath infused them: Heaven has filled them with / स्वर्ग ने उनमें भर दिया है / ସ୍ୱର୍ଗ ସେମାନଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ଭରିଦେଇଛି।
Infused: Filled or inspired with a particular quality or spirit / भर दिया, संचारित किया / ଭରିଦେଲା, ସଞ୍ଚାର କଲା।
Spirits: Supernatural forces or influences / अलौकिक शक्तियाँ या प्रभाव / ଅଲୌକିକ ଶକ୍ତି ବା ପ୍ରଭାବ।
Instruments: Means or tools used to achieve a purpose / साधन, उपकरण / ମାଧ୍ୟମ, ସାଧନ।
Instruments of fear and warning: Means through which fear and warnings are conveyed / भय और चेतावनी देने के साधन / ଭୟ ଓ ସତର୍କବାଣୀ ପ୍ରଦାନ କରିବାର ମାଧ୍ୟମ।
Monstrous state: An unnatural, terrible or disorderly condition of society or government / समाज या शासन की विकराल, अप्राकृतिक अथवा अव्यवस्थित अवस्था / ସମାଜ ବା ଶାସନର ଭୟଙ୍କର, ଅସ୍ୱାଭାବିକ ବା ବିଶୃଙ୍ଖଳ ଅବସ୍ଥା।
Name to thee: Tell you the name of / तुम्हें नाम बताना / ତୁମକୁ ନାମ କହିବା।
Most like this dreadful night: Very similar to this terrifying and disturbed night / इस भयानक और अशांत रात के समान / ଏହି ଭୟଙ୍କର ଓ ଅଶାନ୍ତ ରାତି ସହିତ ଅତ୍ୟନ୍ତ ସମାନ।
Opens graves: Causes the graves to open; a supernatural image suggesting disorder and destruction / कब्रों को खोल देता है / କବରଗୁଡ଼ିକୁ ଖୋଲିଦିଏ।
Roars: Makes a loud, deep and frightening sound / गरजता है / ଗର୍ଜନ କରେ।
Doth the lion: Does the lion; an archaic expression / सिंह की तरह करता है / ସିଂହ ପରି କରେ।
No mightier than thyself or me: No more powerful than you or me / तुमसे या मुझसे अधिक शक्तिशाली नहीं / ତୁମଠାରୁ ବା ମୋଠାରୁ ଅଧିକ ଶକ୍ତିଶାଳୀ ନୁହେଁ।
Personal action: Physical strength or ability in individual action / व्यक्तिगत शारीरिक शक्ति या कार्य करने की क्षमता / ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିଗତ ଶାରୀରିକ ଶକ୍ତି ବା କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ଷମତା।
Prodigious: Extraordinary, astonishing or unusually powerful / असाधारण, आश्चर्यजनक, विलक्षण / ଅସାଧାରଣ, ଆଶ୍ଚର୍ଯ୍ୟଜନକ, ବିଚିତ୍ର।
Prodigious grown: Become extraordinarily powerful or remarkable / असाधारण रूप से शक्तिशाली या प्रभावशाली बन जाना / ଅସାଧାରଣ ଭାବରେ ଶକ୍ତିଶାଳୀ ବା ପ୍ରଭାବଶାଳୀ ହୋଇଯିବା।
Fearful: Causing fear; frightening / भयावह, डरावना / ଭୟଙ୍କର, ଭୟ ସୃଷ୍ଟିକାରୀ।
Strange eruptions: Unusual and violent outbreaks or manifestations / विचित्र और असामान्य विस्फोट या प्रकट घटनाएँ / ଅସ୍ୱାଭାବିକ ଓ ଭୟଙ୍କର ବିସ୍ଫୋରଣ ବା ଘଟଣା।
'Tis: It is / यह है / ଏହା ଅଟେ।
Let it be who it is: Let the identity of the man remain unstated / वह व्यक्ति कौन है, यह कहने दो या न बताने दो / ସେ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତି କିଏ, ତାହା ନ କହିଲେ ମଧ୍ୟ ଚଳିବ।
Thews: Muscles; bodily strength / मांसपेशियाँ, शारीरिक बल / ମାଂସପେଶୀ, ଶାରୀରିକ ବଳ।
Limbs: Arms and legs; parts of the body / हाथ-पैर, अंग / ହାତ ଓ ଗୋଡ଼, ଅଙ୍ଗପ୍ରତ୍ୟଙ୍ଗ।
Like to their ancestors: Similar to their forefathers / अपने पूर्वजों के समान / ନିଜ ପୂର୍ବପୁରୁଷମାନଙ୍କ ପରି।
Woe the while: Alas! What a pity! / हाय! कितना दुर्भाग्यपूर्ण! / ହାୟ! କେତେ ଦୁଃଖର କଥା!
Fathers' minds are dead: The courage, wisdom and noble spirit of their forefathers have disappeared / उनके पूर्वजों का साहस, विवेक और महान आत्मबल समाप्त हो गया है / ସେମାନଙ୍କ ପୂର୍ବପୁରୁଷମାନଙ୍କର ସାହସ, ବିବେକ ଓ ମହାନ ମନୋବଳ ଲୋପ ପାଇଛି।
Governed with our mothers' spirits: Ruled by a weak and timid spirit, unlike the courageous spirit of their forefathers / अपने पूर्वजों के साहसी स्वभाव के विपरीत, कमज़ोर और डरपोक मानसिकता से शासित / ପୂର୍ବପୁରୁଷମାନଙ୍କ ସାହସୀ ମନୋଭାବର ବିପରୀତ, ଦୁର୍ବଳ ଓ ଭୀରୁ ମନୋଭାବ ଦ୍ୱାରା ଶାସିତ।
Yoke: A burden or oppressive control / जुआ, दासता का बोझ, दमनकारी नियंत्रण / ଯୁଆଳି, ଦାସତ୍ୱର ବୋଝ, ଦମନମୂଳକ ନିୟନ୍ତ୍ରଣ।
Sufferance: Patiently enduring something unpleasant or oppressive / कष्ट सहन करना, अधीनता स्वीकार करना / କଷ୍ଟ ସହିବା, ଅଧୀନତା ସ୍ୱୀକାର କରିବା।
Yoke and sufferance: The burden of submission and the willingness to endure oppression / अधीनता का बोझ और अत्याचार सहते रहने की प्रवृत्ति / ଅଧୀନତାର ବୋଝ ଓ ଅତ୍ୟାଚାର ସହି ରହିବାର ପ୍ରବୃତ୍ତି।
Womanish: Weak, timid or lacking courage; traditionally used here in a derogatory sense / स्त्रैण कहकर कमजोर और कायर बताना / ନାରୀସୁଲଭ ବୋଲି କହି ଦୁର୍ବଳ ଓ ଭୀରୁ ବୋଲି ଦର୍ଶାଇବା।
Senators: Members of the Roman Senate, the governing council of ancient Rome / रोमन सीनेट के सदस्य / ପ୍ରାଚୀନ ରୋମର ଶାସନ ପରିଷଦ 'ସିନେଟ୍'ର ସଦସ୍ୟମାନେ।
Mean to establish: Intend or plan to appoint or make someone / स्थापित या नियुक्त करने का इरादा रखना / ପ୍ରତିଷ୍ଠା ବା ନିଯୁକ୍ତ କରିବାକୁ ଉଦ୍ଦେଶ୍ୟ ରଖିବା।
Establish Caesar as a king: Formally make Caesar the king / सीज़र को औपचारिक रूप से राजा बनाना / ସିଜରଙ୍କୁ ଆନୁଷ୍ଠାନିକ ଭାବେ ରାଜା କରିବା।
Wear his crown: Rule as a king; possess royal authority / राजा के रूप में शासन करना, मुकुट धारण करना / ରାଜା ଭାବେ ଶାସନ କରିବା, ମୁକୁଟ ଧାରଣ କରିବା।
By sea and land: Everywhere, both on land and across the sea / स्थल और समुद्र दोनों जगह / ସ୍ଥଳ ଓ ସମୁଦ୍ର ଉଭୟ ସ୍ଥାନରେ।
Save: Except / को छोड़कर / ବ୍ୟତୀତ, ଛାଡ଼ି।
In every place save here in Italy: Everywhere except here in Italy / इटली को छोड़कर हर जगह / ଇଟାଲୀକୁ ଛାଡ଼ି ଅନ୍ୟ ସବୁ ସ୍ଥାନରେ।
Important contextual expressions for students
These expressions are particularly important for understanding the meaning of the scene.

Expression	Contextual meaning
The earth shakes like a thing unfirm	The earth appears to shake violently as if it were unstable.
The ocean swell and rage and foam	The sea becomes extremely rough and produces huge waves and foam.
A tempest dropping fire	A violent storm accompanied by flashes of lightning.
A civil strife in heaven	A supposed conflict among the gods.
The world, too saucy with the gods	Humanity has become too bold or disrespectful towards the gods.
The bird of night	The owl, traditionally considered an omen of evil.
These are their reasons, they are natural	These events have ordinary natural explanations.
Clean from the purpose of the things themselves	Completely unrelated to the actual significance of those events.
Bared my bosom to the thunder-stone	Cassius exposed his chest to the danger of lightning.
The breast of heaven	The sky, poetically imagined as a living being.
Sparks of life	Courage, energy and the fighting spirit expected of a Roman.
Heaven hath infused them with these spirits	The gods have supposedly filled these strange events with supernatural significance.
Instruments of fear and warning	Signs intended to frighten and warn people about impending danger.
A man no mightier than thyself or me	Caesar is physically no stronger than ordinary men like Cassius and Casca.
Our fathers' minds are dead	The courage and noble spirit of their ancestors have disappeared.
We are governed with our mothers' spirits	Romans have become timid and submissive, according to Cassius's prejudiced comparison.
Wear his crown by sea and land	Caesar will exercise royal authority over territories everywhere.

Summary 
Setting: A street in Rome, during a stormy night.
Act I, Scene III of Shakespeare's Julius Caesar presents a night of extraordinary natural disturbances and strange supernatural occurrences. Through the conversation between Casca and Cicero, Shakespeare creates an atmosphere of fear, mystery and impending disaster. The scene also reveals the growing conspiracy against Caesar and the political tension surrounding his expected coronation.
1. A Terrifying Night in Rome
The scene opens with Casca meeting Cicero on a street in Rome during a violent storm. Thunder and lightning fill the sky. Casca appears frightened and deeply disturbed by the unusual weather. He tells Cicero that he has never witnessed such a terrifying night before.
Cicero asks Casca why he seems so troubled. Casca explains that the heavens appear to be sending extraordinary warnings through frightening natural events. He believes that the strange occurrences may indicate that something terrible is about to happen in Rome.
Cicero, however, does not accept Casca's interpretation without question. He remarks that people often interpret extraordinary events according to their own fears and opinions. He also suggests that the storm may have a natural explanation. After their brief conversation, Cicero leaves, and Casca continues along the street.
2. Casca's Description of Supernatural Occurrences
A little later, Cassius enters and meets Casca. Cassius notices that Casca looks frightened and asks him why he is wandering about in the storm.
Casca describes several extraordinary events that have taken place in Rome:
A common slave raised his left hand, which appeared to be burning like twenty torches, yet his hand remained unharmed.
He saw a lion near the Capitol. The animal looked at him but did not attack him.
Some frightened women claimed that they had seen men walking through the streets engulfed in flames.
Another strange incident involved an owl sitting in the marketplace at noon, hooting and crying.
Casca considers these events unnatural and frightening. He believes that they are signs of divine displeasure and that the gods are warning Rome of an approaching calamity.
3. Cassius's Different Interpretation
Cassius does not share Casca's fear of supernatural events. Instead, he interprets them as warnings about the political situation in Rome.
He believes that the heavens are reflecting the corruption, disorder and moral weakness of Roman society. According to him, such extraordinary signs indicate that Rome is heading towards a great political crisis.
Cassius then reveals his personal hostility towards Caesar. He considers Caesar an ambitious and dangerous man who is becoming too powerful. He believes that the Romans have allowed Caesar to rise above ordinary citizens and that their own weakness has contributed to his growing authority.
Cassius argues that Caesar is no more naturally superior to other Romans than they are to him. He compares Caesar to a colossus, a gigantic statue, under whose enormous legs the ordinary Romans walk while searching for dishonourable graves. Through this comparison, Cassius criticises the Romans for surrendering their freedom and accepting Caesar's dominance.
4. Cassius's Attempt to Encourage Casca
Cassius now tries to persuade Casca that the growing power of Caesar is a threat to Roman liberty. He reminds Casca that the Romans were once free and independent citizens, but now they appear willing to submit to one man's authority.
He argues that Caesar's power does not come from any extraordinary physical or intellectual superiority. Rather, it comes from the willingness of other Romans to accept his dominance.
Cassius further declares that he would rather die than live as a subject under Caesar's rule. He believes that the Romans must take responsibility for their own political condition instead of blaming fate or supernatural forces.
Casca gradually agrees with Cassius. He admits that he too is dissatisfied with the present political situation and is prepared to take action against Caesar.
5. Cassius Reveals the Existence of a Conspiracy
During their conversation, Cassius tells Casca that several influential Roman citizens are already involved in a secret conspiracy against Caesar. He suggests that these men are determined to prevent Caesar from becoming an absolute ruler.
Casca is pleased to learn that others share his concerns. He expresses his willingness to join the movement.
Cassius also mentions that he has deliberately sent Cinna, another conspirator, to leave certain written messages in places where Brutus will find them. These messages are designed to influence Brutus by making him believe that the Roman people want him to take action against Caesar.
Cassius understands that Brutus is highly respected in Rome. His participation would give the conspiracy moral authority and public credibility. Therefore, Cassius is determined to bring Brutus into their group.
6. Casca Agrees to Join the Conspiracy
Casca openly declares that he is willing to join the conspiracy. He reveals that he has already spoken to several important Roman citizens about their opposition to Caesar.
He also mentions that these men have expressed their determination to prevent Caesar from gaining absolute power. Casca's willingness to participate strengthens Cassius's confidence in the conspiracy.
Both men agree that they should meet the following day to discuss their plans further. Their conversation makes it clear that the conspiracy is gradually gaining strength.
7. The Discussion About Caesar's Coronation
Before they separate, Casca informs Cassius about an important political development. He says that the Senators intend to establish Caesar as king the following day.
However, Caesar will wear the crown everywhere except in Italy. This detail suggests that the Senators are planning to give Caesar royal authority, while avoiding the direct use of the title of king within Italy, where the idea of monarchy is politically sensitive.
Casca's information makes the situation even more urgent for the conspirators. They fear that Caesar's coronation will mark the beginning of the end of Roman freedom.
8. The Scene Ends with a Sense of Impending Danger
The scene concludes with Cassius and Casca preparing to continue their efforts against Caesar. Cassius is confident that Brutus can be persuaded to join them, while Casca is now firmly committed to the conspiracy.
The violent storm, supernatural occurrences and political discussions together create a powerful atmosphere of uncertainty and danger. The scene prepares the audience for the events that will lead to Caesar's assassination.
Major Themes and Significance of the Scene
1. Superstition and Omens: The strange natural and supernatural events create fear and suggest that an important tragedy is approaching.
2. Fate and Human Responsibility: Casca interprets the unusual occurrences as warnings from the gods, whereas Cassius argues that human beings are responsible for their own political condition.
3. Ambition and Political Power: Cassius believes that Caesar's ambition threatens the freedom and independence of Rome.
4. Roman Liberty: The conversation highlights the conflict between individual freedom and the growing authority of a single ruler.
5. Manipulation and Conspiracy: Cassius's plan to influence Brutus through written messages reveals his cleverness and political manipulation.
6. Foreshadowing: The storm and supernatural events symbolically foreshadow the political turmoil and tragedy that will follow.
Overall significance: Act I, Scene III is an important turning point in the development of the plot. It reveals the growing opposition to Caesar, introduces the conspiracy more clearly, and establishes Cassius as one of its principal organisers. It also prepares the way for Brutus's involvement and the tragic events that eventually lead to Caesar's assassination.
सारांश (Detailed Summary)
स्थान: रोम की एक सड़क। समय – तूफानी रात।
शेक्सपियर के नाटक Julius Caesar के अंक I, दृश्य III में एक भयंकर तूफानी रात का वर्णन किया गया है। आकाश में बिजली चमक रही है और बादल गरज रहे हैं। इस दृश्य में प्रकृति की असामान्य घटनाओं के माध्यम से भय, रहस्य और आने वाली विपत्ति का वातावरण तैयार किया गया है। कैस्का और कैसियस की बातचीत से सीज़र के विरुद्ध बढ़ते षड्यंत्र तथा रोम की राजनीतिक स्थिति का भी पता चलता है।
1. रोम में एक भयानक रात
दृश्य की शुरुआत रोम की एक सड़क पर होती है, जहाँ कैस्का और सिसरो मिलते हैं। उस समय भयंकर तूफान आ रहा होता है। आकाश में बिजली चमक रही होती है और बादल जोर-जोर से गरज रहे होते हैं।
कैस्का इस असाधारण प्राकृतिक दृश्य से बहुत भयभीत दिखाई देता है। वह सिसरो से कहता है कि उसने पहले कभी इतनी भयानक रात नहीं देखी। सिसरो उससे पूछता है कि वह इतना परेशान क्यों है।
कैस्का बताता है कि आकाश में घटित हो रही असामान्य घटनाएँ मानो किसी बड़ी विपत्ति का संकेत दे रही हैं। उसका विश्वास है कि देवता इन घटनाओं के माध्यम से रोम के लोगों को किसी आने वाले संकट के प्रति सचेत कर रहे हैं।
लेकिन सिसरो कैस्का की तरह इन घटनाओं से भयभीत नहीं होता। वह कहता है कि लोग अक्सर असाधारण घटनाओं का अर्थ अपनी सोच और भावनाओं के अनुसार निकालते हैं। उसके अनुसार, इस तूफान का कोई प्राकृतिक कारण भी हो सकता है। इसके बाद सिसरो वहाँ से चला जाता है।
2. कैस्का द्वारा अलौकिक घटनाओं का वर्णन
कुछ समय बाद कैसियस वहाँ आता है और उसकी मुलाकात कैस्का से होती है। कैसियस कैस्का को भयभीत देखकर उससे पूछता है कि वह इस तूफानी रात में बाहर क्यों घूम रहा है।
कैस्का उसे रोम में घटित हुई कई असाधारण घटनाओं के बारे में बताता है।

• उसने एक साधारण गुलाम को देखा, जिसका बायाँ हाथ बीस मशालों की तरह जलता हुआ दिखाई दे रहा था, फिर भी उसका हाथ सुरक्षित था।

• उसने कैपिटोल के पास एक शेर देखा। वह शेर उसे घूरता रहा, लेकिन उसने उस पर हमला नहीं किया।

• कुछ भयभीत महिलाओं ने बताया कि उन्होंने सड़कों पर ऐसे मनुष्यों को चलते हुए देखा, जो आग की लपटों से घिरे हुए थे।

• उसने यह भी सुना कि दोपहर के समय एक उल्लू बाजार में बैठकर चिल्ला रहा था और आवाजें निकाल रहा था।

कैस्का इन सभी घटनाओं को अप्राकृतिक और भयावह मानता है। उसका विश्वास है कि ये घटनाएँ देवताओं के क्रोध और रोम पर आने वाली किसी बड़ी विपत्ति का संकेत हैं।
3. कैसियस की अलग व्याख्या
कैसियस इन घटनाओं को कैस्का की तरह केवल अलौकिक संकेत नहीं मानता। वह इनका राजनीतिक अर्थ निकालता है।
उसके अनुसार, आकाश में दिखाई देने वाली असामान्य घटनाएँ रोम की बिगड़ती हुई राजनीतिक और नैतिक स्थिति को प्रकट करती हैं। वह मानता है कि रोम में व्याप्त अव्यवस्था और नैतिक पतन के कारण एक बड़ा संकट आने वाला है।
इसके बाद कैसियस सीज़र के प्रति अपनी घृणा और विरोध प्रकट करता है। वह सीज़र को अत्यधिक महत्वाकांक्षी और खतरनाक व्यक्ति मानता है। उसके विचार से सीज़र धीरे-धीरे इतना शक्तिशाली होता जा रहा है कि दूसरे रोमन नागरिकों की स्वतंत्रता खतरे में पड़ गई है।
कैसियस कहता है कि सीज़र में ऐसी कोई स्वाभाविक श्रेष्ठता नहीं है, जो उसे अन्य रोमन नागरिकों से ऊपर रखती हो। वह सीज़र की तुलना एक विशाल प्रतिमा (Colossus) से करता है, जिसके विशाल पैरों के नीचे से साधारण रोमन नागरिक गुजरते हैं और अपमानजनक मृत्यु की ओर बढ़ते हैं।
इस तुलना के माध्यम से कैसियस यह बताना चाहता है कि रोमन नागरिक स्वयं अपनी स्वतंत्रता खो रहे हैं और सीज़र के प्रभुत्व को स्वीकार कर रहे हैं।
4. कैसियस द्वारा कैस्का को षड्यंत्र के लिए प्रेरित करना
कैसियस कैस्का को समझाने का प्रयास करता है कि सीज़र की बढ़ती हुई शक्ति रोम की स्वतंत्रता के लिए गंभीर खतरा है। वह उसे याद दिलाता है कि रोमन नागरिक कभी स्वतंत्र और स्वाभिमानी हुआ करते थे, लेकिन अब वे एक व्यक्ति की सत्ता के सामने झुकने को तैयार हैं।
कैसियस का तर्क है कि सीज़र की शक्ति का कारण उसकी असाधारण शारीरिक या मानसिक श्रेष्ठता नहीं है। वास्तव में, उसकी शक्ति का कारण दूसरे रोमन नागरिकों की कमजोरी और उसकी सत्ता को स्वीकार करने की उनकी प्रवृत्ति है।
वह आगे कहता है कि वह सीज़र के अधीन रहने की अपेक्षा मृत्यु को अधिक पसंद करेगा। उसके अनुसार, रोमन नागरिकों को अपनी राजनीतिक स्थिति के लिए स्वयं जिम्मेदार होना चाहिए, न कि हर बात के लिए भाग्य को दोष देना चाहिए।
धीरे-धीरे कैस्का कैसियस की बातों से सहमत होने लगता है। वह स्वीकार करता है कि वह भी वर्तमान राजनीतिक स्थिति से असंतुष्ट है और सीज़र की बढ़ती शक्ति को रोकने के लिए कदम उठाने को तैयार है।
5. कैसियस द्वारा षड्यंत्र का रहस्य प्रकट करना
बातचीत के दौरान कैसियस कैस्का को बताता है कि रोम के कई प्रभावशाली नागरिक सीज़र के विरुद्ध एक गुप्त षड्यंत्र में शामिल हो चुके हैं। ये लोग सीज़र को निरंकुश शासक बनने से रोकना चाहते हैं।
यह जानकर कैस्का प्रसन्न होता है कि दूसरे नागरिक भी उसके विचारों से सहमत हैं। वह इस षड्यंत्र में शामिल होने की इच्छा प्रकट करता है।
कैसियस यह भी बताता है कि उसने सिन्ना को कुछ लिखे हुए संदेश अलग-अलग स्थानों पर छोड़ने के लिए भेजा है, ताकि ब्रूटस उन्हें देख सके। इन संदेशों का उद्देश्य ब्रूटस को यह विश्वास दिलाना है कि रोम की जनता चाहती है कि वह सीज़र के विरुद्ध कोई कदम उठाए।
कैसियस अच्छी तरह समझता है कि ब्रूटस रोम में अत्यंत सम्मानित व्यक्ति है। यदि ब्रूटस षड्यंत्र में शामिल हो जाता है, तो षड्यंत्रकारियों को नैतिक समर्थन और जनता का विश्वास प्राप्त हो सकता है। इसलिए कैसियस उसे अपने दल में शामिल करना चाहता है।
6. कैस्का का षड्यंत्र में शामिल होने का निर्णय
कैस्का स्पष्ट रूप से घोषणा करता है कि वह सीज़र के विरुद्ध षड्यंत्र में शामिल होने के लिए तैयार है। वह बताता है कि वह पहले ही रोम के कुछ महत्वपूर्ण नागरिकों से सीज़र के प्रति अपने विरोध के विषय में बातचीत कर चुका है।
वह यह भी बताता है कि वे लोग सीज़र को असीमित शक्ति प्राप्त करने से रोकने के लिए दृढ़ संकल्पित हैं।
कैस्का की सहमति से कैसियस का विश्वास और मजबूत हो जाता है। दोनों अगले दिन फिर मिलने और अपनी योजनाओं पर विचार करने का निर्णय लेते हैं।
7. सीज़र के राज्याभिषेक की चर्चा
अलग होने से पहले कैस्का कैसियस को एक महत्वपूर्ण राजनीतिक समाचार देता है। वह बताता है कि सीनेट के सदस्य अगले दिन सीज़र को राजा बनाने का इरादा रखते हैं।
हालाँकि, सीज़र मुकुट हर स्थान पर पहनेगा, लेकिन इटली में नहीं।
इसका अर्थ है कि सीनेटर सीज़र को राजकीय अधिकार प्रदान करना चाहते हैं, लेकिन इटली में सीधे उसे राजा की उपाधि देने से बचना चाहते हैं, क्योंकि वहाँ राजतंत्र की अवधारणा राजनीतिक रूप से संवेदनशील है।
यह समाचार षड्यंत्रकारियों के लिए स्थिति को और अधिक गंभीर बना देता है। उन्हें भय है कि सीज़र का राज्याभिषेक रोम की स्वतंत्रता के अंत की शुरुआत सिद्ध हो सकता है।
8. आसन्न संकट के संकेत के साथ दृश्य का अंत
दृश्य के अंत में कैसियस और कैस्का सीज़र के विरुद्ध अपने प्रयास जारी रखने की तैयारी करते हैं। कैसियस को विश्वास है कि वह ब्रूटस को अपने पक्ष में कर लेगा, जबकि कैस्का अब षड्यंत्र में शामिल होने के लिए पूरी तरह तैयार है।
भयंकर तूफान, अलौकिक घटनाएँ और राजनीतिक बातचीत मिलकर भय तथा अनिश्चितता का वातावरण उत्पन्न करती हैं। यह दृश्य आगे घटित होने वाली राजनीतिक उथल-पुथल और दुखद घटनाओं की भूमिका तैयार करता है।
दृश्य के प्रमुख विषय और महत्त्व
1. अंधविश्वास और अपशकुन (Superstition and Omens): प्रकृति की असामान्य घटनाएँ भय उत्पन्न करती हैं और आने वाली किसी बड़ी त्रासदी का संकेत देती हैं।
2. भाग्य और मानवीय उत्तरदायित्व (Fate and Human Responsibility): कैस्का इन घटनाओं को देवताओं की चेतावनी मानता है, जबकि कैसियस मनुष्य को अपनी राजनीतिक स्थिति के लिए स्वयं जिम्मेदार ठहराता है।
3. महत्त्वाकांक्षा और राजनीतिक सत्ता (Ambition and Political Power): कैसियस का मानना है कि सीज़र की महत्त्वाकांक्षा रोम की स्वतंत्रता के लिए खतरा है।
4. रोमन स्वतंत्रता (Roman Liberty): इस दृश्य में व्यक्तिगत स्वतंत्रता और एक व्यक्ति की बढ़ती हुई सत्ता के बीच संघर्ष को दिखाया गया है।
5. चालाकी और षड्यंत्र (Manipulation and Conspiracy): ब्रूटस को प्रभावित करने के लिए कैसियस द्वारा लिखित संदेशों का उपयोग उसकी राजनीतिक चतुराई और चालाकी को प्रकट करता है।
6. पूर्वाभास (Foreshadowing): तूफान और अलौकिक घटनाएँ भविष्य में होने वाली राजनीतिक उथल-पुथल और त्रासदी का पूर्वाभास कराती हैं।
समग्र महत्त्व: अंक I, दृश्य III नाटक की कथावस्तु के विकास में एक महत्त्वपूर्ण मोड़ है। इसमें सीज़र के विरुद्ध बढ़ते विरोध और षड्यंत्र का स्पष्ट परिचय मिलता है। कैसियस षड्यंत्र के प्रमुख आयोजक के रूप में सामने आता है। साथ ही, यह दृश्य ब्रूटस को षड्यंत्र में शामिल करने की योजना तथा अंततः सीज़र की हत्या की ओर बढ़ने वाली घटनाओं की पृष्ठभूमि तैयार करता है।
ସାରାଂଶ 
ସ୍ଥାନ: ରୋମ୍‌ର ଏକ ରାସ୍ତା। ସମୟ – ଝଡ଼ବର୍ଷାପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ ରାତି।
ଶେକ୍ସପିୟର୍‌ଙ୍କ ନାଟକ Julius Caesar ର ଅଙ୍କ I, ଦୃଶ୍ୟ III ରେ ଏକ ଭୟଙ୍କର ଝଡ଼ବର୍ଷାପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ ରାତିର ବର୍ଣ୍ଣନା କରାଯାଇଛି। ଆକାଶରେ ବିଜୁଳି ଚମକୁଛି ଏବଂ ଘଡ଼ଘଡ଼ି ଶବ୍ଦ ଶୁଣାଯାଉଛି। ପ୍ରକୃତିର ଅସାଧାରଣ ଘଟଣାଗୁଡ଼ିକ ମାଧ୍ୟମରେ ଏହି ଦୃଶ୍ୟରେ ଭୟ, ରହସ୍ୟ ଓ ଆସନ୍ନ ବିପଦର ପରିବେଶ ସୃଷ୍ଟି କରାଯାଇଛି। କାସ୍କା ଓ କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ କଥୋପକଥନରୁ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ବିରୋଧରେ ବଢ଼ୁଥିବା ଷଡ଼ଯନ୍ତ୍ର ଏବଂ ରୋମ୍‌ର ରାଜନୈତିକ ପରିସ୍ଥିତି ବିଷୟରେ ମଧ୍ୟ ଜଣାପଡ଼େ।
1. ରୋମ୍‌ରେ ଏକ ଭୟଙ୍କର ରାତି
ଦୃଶ୍ୟଟି ରୋମ୍‌ର ଏକ ରାସ୍ତାରେ ଆରମ୍ଭ ହୁଏ। ସେଠାରେ କାସ୍କା ଓ ସିସେରୋଙ୍କ ସାକ୍ଷାତ୍ ହୁଏ। ସେହି ସମୟରେ ଭୟଙ୍କର ଝଡ଼ ହେଉଥାଏ। ଆକାଶରେ ବିଜୁଳି ଚମକୁଥାଏ ଏବଂ ଘଡ଼ଘଡ଼ି ଶବ୍ଦ ହେଉଥାଏ।
ଏହି ଅସାଧାରଣ ପ୍ରାକୃତିକ ଦୃଶ୍ୟ ଦେଖି କାସ୍କା ଅତ୍ୟନ୍ତ ଭୟଭୀତ ହୋଇପଡ଼ିଥାଏ। ସେ ସିସେରୋଙ୍କୁ କହେ ଯେ, ସେ ପୂର୍ବରୁ କେବେ ଏପରି ଭୟଙ୍କର ରାତି ଦେଖିନାହିଁ। ସିସେରୋ ତାକୁ ଏତେ ଚିନ୍ତିତ ହେବାର କାରଣ ପଚାରନ୍ତି।
କାସ୍କା କହେ ଯେ, ଆକାଶରେ ଘଟୁଥିବା ଅସାଧାରଣ ଘଟଣାଗୁଡ଼ିକ ଯେପରି କୌଣସି ବଡ଼ ବିପଦର ସଙ୍କେତ ଦେଉଛନ୍ତି। ତା'ର ବିଶ୍ୱାସ ଯେ, ଦେବତାମାନେ ଏହି ଘଟଣାଗୁଡ଼ିକ ମାଧ୍ୟମରେ ରୋମ୍‌ବାସୀଙ୍କୁ ଆଗାମୀ ବିପଦ ବିଷୟରେ ସତର୍କ କରାଉଛନ୍ତି।
କିନ୍ତୁ ସିସେରୋ କାସ୍କା ପରି ଏହି ଘଟଣାଗୁଡ଼ିକୁ ନେଇ ଭୟଭୀତ ହୁଅନ୍ତି ନାହିଁ। ସେ କହନ୍ତି ଯେ, ଲୋକମାନେ ଅସାଧାରଣ ଘଟଣାଗୁଡ଼ିକର ଅର୍ଥ ନିଜ ଚିନ୍ତାଧାରା ଓ ଭାବନା ଅନୁସାରେ ବ୍ୟାଖ୍ୟା କରନ୍ତି। ତାଙ୍କ ମତରେ, ଏହି ଝଡ଼ର କୌଣସି ପ୍ରାକୃତିକ କାରଣ ମଧ୍ୟ ଥାଇପାରେ। ଏହା ପରେ ସିସେରୋ ସେଠାରୁ ଚାଲିଯାଆନ୍ତି।
2. କାସ୍କାଙ୍କ ଦ୍ୱାରା ଅଲୌକିକ ଘଟଣାଗୁଡ଼ିକର ବର୍ଣ୍ଣନା
କିଛି ସମୟ ପରେ କାସିଅସ୍ ସେଠାକୁ ଆସନ୍ତି ଏବଂ କାସ୍କାଙ୍କ ସହିତ ତାଙ୍କର ସାକ୍ଷାତ୍ ହୁଏ। କାସ୍କାଙ୍କୁ ଭୟଭୀତ ଦେଖି କାସିଅସ୍ ତାଙ୍କୁ ପଚାରନ୍ତି ଯେ, ଏପରି ଝଡ଼ବର୍ଷାପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ ରାତିରେ ସେ ବାହାରେ କାହିଁକି ବୁଲୁଛନ୍ତି।
କାସ୍କା ତାଙ୍କୁ ରୋମ୍‌ରେ ଘଟିଥିବା ଅନେକ ଅସାଧାରଣ ଘଟଣା ବିଷୟରେ କହନ୍ତି।

• ସେ ଜଣେ ସାଧାରଣ ଦାସକୁ ଦେଖିଥିଲେ, ଯାହାର ବାମ ହାତ କୋଡ଼ିଏଟି ମଶାଲ ପରି ଜଳୁଥିବା ଦେଖାଯାଉଥିଲା, କିନ୍ତୁ ତା'ର ହାତଟି ଅକ୍ଷତ ରହିଥିଲା।

• ସେ କ୍ୟାପିଟଲ୍ ନିକଟରେ ଏକ ସିଂହକୁ ଦେଖିଥିଲେ। ସିଂହଟି ତାଙ୍କୁ ଏକଦୃଷ୍ଟିରେ ଚାହିଁଥିଲା, କିନ୍ତୁ ଆକ୍ରମଣ କରିନଥିଲା।

• କେତେକ ଭୟଭୀତ ମହିଳା କହିଥିଲେ ଯେ, ସେମାନେ ରାସ୍ତାରେ ନିଆଁର ଶିଖାରେ ଘେରି ହୋଇଥିବା ମଣିଷମାନଙ୍କୁ ଚାଲିବାର ଦେଖିଥିଲେ।

• ସେ ଏହା ମଧ୍ୟ ଶୁଣିଥିଲେ ଯେ, ମଧ୍ୟାହ୍ନ ସମୟରେ ଏକ ପେଚା ବଜାରରେ ବସି ଚିତ୍କାର କରୁଥିଲା ଓ ବିଚିତ୍ର ଶବ୍ଦ କରୁଥିଲା।

କାସ୍କା ଏହି ସମସ୍ତ ଘଟଣାକୁ ଅସ୍ୱାଭାବିକ ଓ ଭୟଙ୍କର ବୋଲି ମନେ କରନ୍ତି। ତାଙ୍କ ବିଶ୍ୱାସ ଯେ, ଏହି ଘଟଣାଗୁଡ଼ିକ ଦେବତାମାନଙ୍କ କ୍ରୋଧ ଓ ରୋମ୍ ଉପରେ ଆସିବାକୁ ଥିବା କୌଣସି ବଡ଼ ବିପଦର ସଙ୍କେତ ଅଟେ।
3. କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ଭିନ୍ନ ବ୍ୟାଖ୍ୟା
କାସିଅସ୍ ଏହି ଘଟଣାଗୁଡ଼ିକୁ କାସ୍କାଙ୍କ ପରି କେବଳ ଅଲୌକିକ ସଙ୍କେତ ଭାବରେ ଗ୍ରହଣ କରନ୍ତି ନାହିଁ। ସେ ଏହାର ରାଜନୈତିକ ଅର୍ଥ ବାହାର କରନ୍ତି।
ତାଙ୍କ ମତରେ, ଆକାଶରେ ଦେଖାଯାଉଥିବା ଅସାଧାରଣ ଘଟଣାଗୁଡ଼ିକ ରୋମ୍‌ର ଅବନତିଶୀଳ ରାଜନୈତିକ ଓ ନୈତିକ ପରିସ୍ଥିତିକୁ ପ୍ରକାଶ କରୁଛି। ତାଙ୍କ ବିଶ୍ୱାସ ଯେ, ରୋମ୍‌ରେ ବ୍ୟାପିଥିବା ଅବ୍ୟବସ୍ଥା ଓ ନୈତିକ ଅବକ୍ଷୟ ଯୋଗୁଁ ଏକ ବଡ଼ ସଙ୍କଟ ଆସିବାକୁ ଯାଉଛି।
ଏହା ପରେ କାସିଅସ୍ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ପ୍ରତି ନିଜର ଘୃଣା ଓ ବିରୋଧ ପ୍ରକାଶ କରନ୍ତି। ସେ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ଅତ୍ୟଧିକ ଉଚ୍ଚାକାଂକ୍ଷୀ ଓ ବିପଜ୍ଜନକ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତି ଭାବେ ଦେଖନ୍ତି। ତାଙ୍କ ମତରେ, ସିଜର୍ ଧୀରେ ଧୀରେ ଏତେ ଶକ୍ତିଶାଳୀ ହୋଇଯାଉଛନ୍ତି ଯେ, ଅନ୍ୟ ରୋମୀୟ ନାଗରିକମାନଙ୍କ ସ୍ୱାଧୀନତା ବିପଦରେ ପଡ଼ିଯାଇଛି।
କାସିଅସ୍ କହନ୍ତି ଯେ, ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କଠାରେ ଏପରି କୌଣସି ସ୍ୱାଭାବିକ ଶ୍ରେଷ୍ଠତା ନାହିଁ, ଯାହା ତାଙ୍କୁ ଅନ୍ୟ ରୋମୀୟ ନାଗରିକମାନଙ୍କଠାରୁ ଉଚ୍ଚ ସ୍ଥାନରେ ରଖିପାରିବ। ସେ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ଏକ ବିଶାଳ ପ୍ରତିମୂର୍ତ୍ତି (Colossus) ସହିତ ତୁଳନା କରନ୍ତି, ଯାହାର ବିଶାଳ ପାଦ ତଳ ଦେଇ ସାଧାରଣ ରୋମୀୟ ନାଗରିକମାନେ ଯାତାୟାତ କରନ୍ତି ଏବଂ ଅପମାନଜନକ ମୃତ୍ୟୁ ଆଡ଼କୁ ଗତି କରନ୍ତି।
ଏହି ତୁଳନା ମାଧ୍ୟମରେ କାସିଅସ୍ ଦର୍ଶାଇବାକୁ ଚାହାନ୍ତି ଯେ, ରୋମୀୟ ନାଗରିକମାନେ ନିଜେ ନିଜର ସ୍ୱାଧୀନତା ହରାଉଛନ୍ତି ଏବଂ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ପ୍ରଭୁତ୍ୱକୁ ଗ୍ରହଣ କରୁଛନ୍ତି।
4. କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ଦ୍ୱାରା କାସ୍କାଙ୍କୁ ଷଡ଼ଯନ୍ତ୍ର ପାଇଁ ପ୍ରେରଣା
କାସିଅସ୍ କାସ୍କାଙ୍କୁ ବୁଝାଇବାକୁ ଚେଷ୍ଟା କରନ୍ତି ଯେ, ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ବଢ଼ୁଥିବା ଶକ୍ତି ରୋମ୍‌ର ସ୍ୱାଧୀନତା ପାଇଁ ଏକ ଗମ୍ଭୀର ବିପଦ। ସେ ତାଙ୍କୁ ମନେ ପକାଇ ଦିଅନ୍ତି ଯେ, ରୋମୀୟ ନାଗରିକମାନେ ଏକଦା ସ୍ୱାଧୀନ ଓ ଆତ୍ମସମ୍ମାନୀ ଥିଲେ, କିନ୍ତୁ ବର୍ତ୍ତମାନ ସେମାନେ ଜଣେ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିଙ୍କ ଶାସନ ଆଗରେ ମୁଣ୍ଡ ନୁଆଁଇବାକୁ ପ୍ରସ୍ତୁତ ହେଉଛନ୍ତି।
କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ଯୁକ୍ତି ହେଉଛି ଯେ, ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ଶକ୍ତିର କାରଣ ତାଙ୍କର ଅସାଧାରଣ ଶାରୀରିକ କିମ୍ବା ମାନସିକ ଶ୍ରେଷ୍ଠତା ନୁହେଁ। ବାସ୍ତବରେ, ଅନ୍ୟ ରୋମୀୟ ନାଗରିକମାନଙ୍କ ଦୁର୍ବଳତା ଓ ତାଙ୍କର ପ୍ରଭୁତ୍ୱକୁ ଗ୍ରହଣ କରିବାର ମନୋଭାବ ହିଁ ତାଙ୍କ ଶକ୍ତିର ମୂଳ କାରଣ।
ସେ ଆହୁରି କହନ୍ତି ଯେ, ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ଅଧୀନରେ ରହିବା ଅପେକ୍ଷା ସେ ମୃତ୍ୟୁକୁ ଅଧିକ ପସନ୍ଦ କରିବେ। ତାଙ୍କ ମତରେ, ରୋମୀୟ ନାଗରିକମାନେ ନିଜର ରାଜନୈତିକ ପରିସ୍ଥିତି ପାଇଁ ନିଜେ ଦାୟୀ ହେବା ଉଚିତ୍; ପ୍ରତ୍ୟେକ କଥା ପାଇଁ ଭାଗ୍ୟକୁ ଦୋଷ ଦେବା ଉଚିତ୍ ନୁହେଁ।
ଧୀରେ ଧୀରେ କାସ୍କା କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ କଥାରେ ସହମତ ହୁଅନ୍ତି। ସେ ସ୍ୱୀକାର କରନ୍ତି ଯେ, ସେ ମଧ୍ୟ ବର୍ତ୍ତମାନର ରାଜନୈତିକ ପରିସ୍ଥିତିରେ ଅସନ୍ତୁଷ୍ଟ ଏବଂ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ବଢ଼ୁଥିବା ଶକ୍ତିକୁ ରୋକିବା ପାଇଁ ପଦକ୍ଷେପ ନେବାକୁ ପ୍ରସ୍ତୁତ।
5. କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ଦ୍ୱାରା ଷଡ଼ଯନ୍ତ୍ରର ରହସ୍ୟ ପ୍ରକାଶ
କଥୋପକଥନ ସମୟରେ କାସିଅସ୍ କାସ୍କାଙ୍କୁ କହନ୍ତି ଯେ, ରୋମ୍‌ର ଅନେକ ପ୍ରଭାବଶାଳୀ ନାଗରିକ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ବିରୋଧରେ ଏକ ଗୁପ୍ତ ଷଡ଼ଯନ୍ତ୍ରରେ ସାମିଲ ହୋଇସାରିଛନ୍ତି। ଏହି ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିମାନେ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ଏକଛତ୍ର ଶାସକ ହେବାରୁ ରୋକିବାକୁ ଚାହାନ୍ତି।
ଏହା ଜାଣି କାସ୍କା ଖୁସି ହୁଅନ୍ତି ଯେ, ଅନ୍ୟ ନାଗରିକମାନେ ମଧ୍ୟ ତାଙ୍କର ମତ ସହିତ ସହମତ। ସେ ଏହି ଷଡ଼ଯନ୍ତ୍ରରେ ସାମିଲ ହେବାକୁ ନିଜର ଇଚ୍ଛା ପ୍ରକାଶ କରନ୍ତି।
କାସିଅସ୍ ଏହା ମଧ୍ୟ କହନ୍ତି ଯେ, ସେ ସିନ୍ନାଙ୍କୁ କିଛି ଲିଖିତ ସନ୍ଦେଶ ବିଭିନ୍ନ ସ୍ଥାନରେ ରଖି ଆସିବାକୁ ପଠାଇଛନ୍ତି, ଯାହାଦ୍ୱାରା ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ ସେଗୁଡ଼ିକୁ ଦେଖିପାରିବେ। ଏହି ସନ୍ଦେଶଗୁଡ଼ିକର ଉଦ୍ଦେଶ୍ୟ ହେଉଛି ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ଏହି ବିଶ୍ୱାସ କରାଇବା ଯେ, ରୋମ୍‌ର ଜନସାଧାରଣ ଚାହାଁନ୍ତି ଯେ ସେ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ବିରୋଧରେ କୌଣସି ପଦକ୍ଷେପ ନିଅନ୍ତୁ।
କାସିଅସ୍ ଭଲଭାବେ ବୁଝିଛନ୍ତି ଯେ, ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ ରୋମ୍‌ରେ ଅତ୍ୟନ୍ତ ସମ୍ମାନିତ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତି। ଯଦି ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ ଏହି ଷଡ଼ଯନ୍ତ୍ରରେ ସାମିଲ ହୁଅନ୍ତି, ତେବେ ଷଡ଼ଯନ୍ତ୍ରକାରୀମାନେ ନୈତିକ ସମର୍ଥନ ଓ ଜନସାଧାରଣଙ୍କ ବିଶ୍ୱାସ ଲାଭ କରିପାରିବେ। ତେଣୁ କାସିଅସ୍ ତାଙ୍କୁ ନିଜ ଦଳରେ ସାମିଲ କରିବାକୁ ଚାହାନ୍ତି।
6. ଷଡ଼ଯନ୍ତ୍ରରେ ସାମିଲ ହେବାକୁ କାସ୍କାଙ୍କ ନିଷ୍ପତ୍ତି
କାସ୍କା ସ୍ପଷ୍ଟ ଭାବରେ ଘୋଷଣା କରନ୍ତି ଯେ, ସେ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ବିରୋଧରେ ଷଡ଼ଯନ୍ତ୍ରରେ ସାମିଲ ହେବାକୁ ପ୍ରସ୍ତୁତ। ସେ କହନ୍ତି ଯେ, ସେ ପୂର୍ବରୁ ରୋମ୍‌ର କେତେକ ଗୁରୁତ୍ୱପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ ନାଗରିକଙ୍କ ସହିତ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ପ୍ରତି ନିଜର ବିରୋଧ ବିଷୟରେ ଆଲୋଚନା କରିଛନ୍ତି।
ସେ ଏହା ମଧ୍ୟ କହନ୍ତି ଯେ, ସେହି ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିମାନେ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ଅସୀମିତ କ୍ଷମତା ପ୍ରାପ୍ତ କରିବାରୁ ରୋକିବା ପାଇଁ ଦୃଢ଼ ସଂକଳ୍ପବଦ୍ଧ।
କାସ୍କାଙ୍କ ସମ୍ମତି କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ଆତ୍ମବିଶ୍ୱାସକୁ ଆହୁରି ବଢ଼ାଇଦିଏ। ଦୁହେଁ ପରଦିନ ପୁଣିଥରେ ମିଶି ନିଜ ଯୋଜନା ବିଷୟରେ ଆଲୋଚନା କରିବାକୁ ସ୍ଥିର କରନ୍ତି।
7. ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ରାଜ୍ୟାଭିଷେକ ବିଷୟରେ ଆଲୋଚନା
ଅଲଗା ହେବା ପୂର୍ବରୁ କାସ୍କା କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ଏକ ଗୁରୁତ୍ୱପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ ରାଜନୈତିକ ଖବର ଦିଅନ୍ତି। ସେ କହନ୍ତି ଯେ, ସିନେଟ୍‌ର ସଦସ୍ୟମାନେ ପରଦିନ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ରାଜା କରିବାକୁ ଉଦ୍ୟମ କରିବାକୁ ଯାଉଛନ୍ତି।
ତେବେ ସିଜର୍ ଇଟାଲୀ ବ୍ୟତୀତ ଅନ୍ୟ ସମସ୍ତ ସ୍ଥାନରେ ମୁକୁଟ ପିନ୍ଧିବେ।
ଏହାର ଅର୍ଥ ହେଉଛି, ସିନେଟରମାନେ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ରାଜକୀୟ କ୍ଷମତା ପ୍ରଦାନ କରିବାକୁ ଚାହାଁନ୍ତି, କିନ୍ତୁ ଇଟାଲୀରେ ତାଙ୍କୁ ସିଧାସଳଖ ରାଜା ଉପାଧି ଦେବାରୁ ବିରତ ରହିବାକୁ ଚାହାଁନ୍ତି, କାରଣ ସେଠାରେ ରାଜତନ୍ତ୍ରର ଧାରଣା ରାଜନୈତିକ ଦୃଷ୍ଟିରୁ ସମ୍ବେଦନଶୀଳ ଥିଲା।
ଏହି ଖବର ଷଡ଼ଯନ୍ତ୍ରକାରୀମାନଙ୍କ ପାଇଁ ପରିସ୍ଥିତିକୁ ଆହୁରି ଗମ୍ଭୀର କରିଦିଏ। ସେମାନଙ୍କର ଭୟ ଯେ, ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ରାଜ୍ୟାଭିଷେକ ରୋମ୍‌ର ସ୍ୱାଧୀନତାର ଅନ୍ତର ଆରମ୍ଭ ହୋଇପାରେ।
8. ଆସନ୍ନ ବିପଦର ସଙ୍କେତ ସହିତ ଦୃଶ୍ୟର ସମାପ୍ତି
ଦୃଶ୍ୟର ଶେଷରେ କାସିଅସ୍ ଓ କାସ୍କା ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ବିରୋଧରେ ନିଜର ଉଦ୍ୟମ ଜାରି ରଖିବାକୁ ପ୍ରସ୍ତୁତ ହୁଅନ୍ତି। କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କର ବିଶ୍ୱାସ ଯେ, ସେ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ନିଜ ପକ୍ଷରେ ଆଣିପାରିବେ। ଅନ୍ୟପକ୍ଷରେ, କାସ୍କା ବର୍ତ୍ତମାନ ଷଡ଼ଯନ୍ତ୍ରରେ ସାମିଲ ହେବାକୁ ସମ୍ପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ ପ୍ରସ୍ତୁତ।
ଭୟଙ୍କର ଝଡ଼, ଅଲୌକିକ ଘଟଣା ଏବଂ ରାଜନୈତିକ ଆଲୋଚନା ମିଶି ଭୟ ଓ ଅନିଶ୍ଚିତତାର ଏକ ପରିବେଶ ସୃଷ୍ଟି କରେ। ଏହି ଦୃଶ୍ୟ ଆଗାମୀ ରାଜନୈତିକ ଅସ୍ଥିରତା ଓ ଦୁଃଖଦ ଘଟଣାଗୁଡ଼ିକ ପାଇଁ ପୃଷ୍ଠଭୂମି ପ୍ରସ୍ତୁତ କରେ।
ଦୃଶ୍ୟର ପ୍ରମୁଖ ବିଷୟବସ୍ତୁ ଓ ଗୁରୁତ୍ୱ
1. ଅନ୍ଧବିଶ୍ୱାସ ଓ ଅଶୁଭ ସଙ୍କେତ (Superstition and Omens): ପ୍ରକୃତିର ଅସାଧାରଣ ଘଟଣାଗୁଡ଼ିକ ଭୟ ସୃଷ୍ଟି କରେ ଏବଂ ଆଗାମୀ କୌଣସି ବଡ଼ ଦୁର୍ଘଟଣାର ସଙ୍କେତ ଦିଏ।
2. ଭାଗ୍ୟ ଓ ମାନବୀୟ ଦାୟିତ୍ୱ (Fate and Human Responsibility): କାସ୍କା ଏହି ଘଟଣାଗୁଡ଼ିକୁ ଦେବତାମାନଙ୍କ ଚେତାବନୀ ବୋଲି ମନେ କରନ୍ତି, କିନ୍ତୁ କାସିଅସ୍ ମନୁଷ୍ୟକୁ ନିଜର ରାଜନୈତିକ ପରିସ୍ଥିତି ପାଇଁ ନିଜେ ଦାୟୀ କରନ୍ତି।
3. ଉଚ୍ଚାକାଂକ୍ଷା ଓ ରାଜନୈତିକ କ୍ଷମତା (Ambition and Political Power): କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ମତରେ, ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ଉଚ୍ଚାକାଂକ୍ଷା ରୋମ୍‌ର ସ୍ୱାଧୀନତା ପାଇଁ ଏକ ବିପଦ।
4. ରୋମୀୟ ସ୍ୱାଧୀନତା (Roman Liberty): ଏହି ଦୃଶ୍ୟରେ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିଗତ ସ୍ୱାଧୀନତା ଓ ଜଣେ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିଙ୍କ ବଢ଼ୁଥିବା କ୍ଷମତା ମଧ୍ୟରେ ଥିବା ସଂଘର୍ଷକୁ ଦର୍ଶାଯାଇଛି।
5. ଚାଲାକି ଓ ଷଡ଼ଯନ୍ତ୍ର (Manipulation and Conspiracy): ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ପ୍ରଭାବିତ କରିବା ପାଇଁ କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ଦ୍ୱାରା ଲିଖିତ ସନ୍ଦେଶଗୁଡ଼ିକର ବ୍ୟବହାର ତାଙ୍କର ରାଜନୈତିକ ଚତୁରତା ଓ କୌଶଳକୁ ପ୍ରକାଶ କରେ।
6. ପୂର୍ବାଭାସ (Foreshadowing): ଝଡ଼ ଓ ଅଲୌକିକ ଘଟଣାଗୁଡ଼ିକ ଭବିଷ୍ୟତରେ ଘଟିବାକୁ ଥିବା ରାଜନୈତିକ ଅସ୍ଥିରତା ଓ ଦୁଃଖଦ ଘଟଣାର ପୂର୍ବାଭାସ ଦିଏ।
ସାମଗ୍ରିକ ଗୁରୁତ୍ୱ: ଅଙ୍କ I, ଦୃଶ୍ୟ III ନାଟକର କାହାଣୀର ବିକାଶରେ ଏକ ଗୁରୁତ୍ୱପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ ମୋଡ଼। ଏଥିରେ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ବିରୋଧରେ ବଢ଼ୁଥିବା ଅସନ୍ତୋଷ ଓ ଷଡ଼ଯନ୍ତ୍ରର ସ୍ପଷ୍ଟ ପରିଚୟ ମିଳେ। କାସିଅସ୍ ଷଡ଼ଯନ୍ତ୍ରର ଜଣେ ପ୍ରମୁଖ ଆୟୋଜକ ଭାବରେ ଉଭା ହୁଅନ୍ତି। ଏହା ସହିତ, ଏହି ଦୃଶ୍ୟ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ଷଡ଼ଯନ୍ତ୍ରରେ ସାମିଲ କରିବାର ଯୋଜନା ଏବଂ ଶେଷରେ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ହତ୍ୟା ଆଡ଼କୁ ଗତି କରୁଥିବା ଘଟଣାଗୁଡ଼ିକ ପାଇଁ ପୃଷ୍ଠଭୂମି ପ୍ରସ୍ତୁତ କରେ।
Paraphrase
1. Conversation between Cicero and Casca
CICERO: “Good even, Casca: Brought you Caesar home? Why are you breathless? And why stare you so?”
Paraphrase: Cicero greets Casca and asks him whether he has accompanied Caesar safely home. Noticing that Casca is breathing heavily and looking unusually astonished, he further asks why he appears so breathless and why he is staring in such a strange manner.
CASCA: “Are not you moved, when all the sway of earth shakes like a thing unfirm?”
Paraphrase: Casca asks Cicero whether he is not disturbed by the extraordinary natural disturbances taking place around them, particularly when the entire earth seems to shake as though it has lost its stability.
CASCA: “O, Cicero, I have seen tempests, when the scolding winds have rived the knotty oaks; and I have seen the ambitious ocean swell and rage and foam, to be exalted with the threatening clouds: but never till to-night, never till now, did I go through a tempest dropping fire.”
Paraphrase: Casca tells Cicero that he has witnessed many terrible storms in the past. He has seen furious winds so violent that they have split strong and firmly rooted oak trees. He has also seen the ambitious ocean rise, become extremely turbulent and produce huge waves and foam, as though it were trying to reach the threatening clouds above. However, despite having witnessed such powerful natural disturbances, he has never before experienced a storm like the one that has occurred that night, during which fire seemed to fall from the sky.
CASCA: “Either there is a civil strife in heaven; or else the world, too saucy with the gods, incenses them to send destruction.”
Paraphrase: Casca suggests two possible explanations for these extraordinary happenings. Either the gods themselves are engaged in some kind of conflict in heaven, or human beings have become excessively arrogant and disrespectful towards the gods. Their improper behaviour may have angered the divine powers so much that the gods are sending these dreadful signs as warnings of approaching destruction.
CICERO: “Why, saw you anything more wonderful?”
Paraphrase: Cicero asks Casca whether he has witnessed anything else besides the unusual storm that could be considered even more astonishing or extraordinary.
CASCA: “A common slave—you know him well by sight—held up his left hand, which did flame and burn like twenty torches joined; and yet his hand, not sensible of fire, remained unscorched.”
Paraphrase: Casca describes another extraordinary incident that he has witnessed. A common slave, whom Cicero knows by sight, raised his left hand, and it appeared to be burning with a brilliant flame as bright as twenty torches burning together. Surprisingly, although the hand seemed to be surrounded by fire, the slave felt no sensation of burning, and his hand remained completely unharmed.
CASCA: “Besides—I ha' not since put up my sword—against the Capitol I met a lion, who glared upon me, and went surly by, without annoying me.”
Paraphrase: Casca further recounts that he encountered a lion near the Capitol. He explains that he has not yet put away his sword since that encounter, suggesting that he has remained prepared for danger. The lion stared fixedly at him and then passed by in a fierce and threatening manner without attacking or harming him.
CASCA: “And there were drawn upon a heap a hundred ghastly women, transformed with their fear; who swore they saw men, all in fire, walk up and down the streets.”
Paraphrase: Casca describes another frightening occurrence. About a hundred terrified women had gathered together in one place. Their faces and appearances were distorted by extreme fear. They solemnly declared that they had seen men completely surrounded by fire walking here and there through the streets of Rome.
CASCA: “And yesterday the bird of night did sit even at noon-day upon the market-place, hooting and shrieking.”
Paraphrase: Casca adds that even the previous day an unusual incident had taken place. An owl, which is generally associated with darkness and night, had sat in the marketplace in broad daylight, at noon. Instead of remaining silent, it had been hooting and shrieking in a frightening manner.
CASCA: “When these prodigies do so conjointly meet, let not men say, ‘These are their reasons; they are natural’; for, I believe, they are portentous things unto the climate that they point upon.”
Paraphrase: Casca concludes that when so many extraordinary and unnatural events occur together, people should not dismiss them as ordinary natural occurrences or try to explain them away as having normal causes. He firmly believes that these strange happenings are ominous signs or warnings of some approaching disaster. They seem to foretell something terrible for the particular region or country towards which they are directed.
CICERO: “Indeed, it is a strange-disposed time: but men may construe things after their fashion, clean from the purpose of the things themselves.”
Paraphrase: Cicero agrees that the present time is indeed unusual and disturbing. However, he observes that people often interpret events according to their own opinions, beliefs and personal ways of thinking, without understanding their actual significance or the true purpose behind those events.
CICERO: “Comes Caesar to the Capitol to-morrow?”
Paraphrase: Cicero then changes the subject and asks Casca whether Caesar is going to visit the Capitol the following day.
CASCA: “He doth; for he did bid Antonius send word to you he would be there to-morrow.”
Paraphrase: Casca confirms that Caesar will visit the Capitol the next day. He explains that Caesar had instructed Antonius to inform Cicero about his intention to be present there.
CICERO: “Good night, then, Casca: this disturbed sky is not to walk in.”
Paraphrase: Cicero bids Casca good night and remarks that the weather is too disturbed and threatening for anyone to remain outdoors or go walking in such conditions.
CASCA: “Farewell, Cicero.”
Paraphrase: Casca takes leave of Cicero and bids him goodbye.
[Cicero exits.]
2. Conversation between Cassius and Casca
CASSIUS: “Who's there?”
Paraphrase: As someone approaches, Cassius calls out to find out who is present in the darkness.
CASCA: “A Roman.”
Paraphrase: Casca replies briefly that he is a Roman citizen.
CASSIUS: “Casca, by your voice.”
Paraphrase: Recognising the familiar voice, Cassius identifies the speaker as Casca.
CASCA: “Your ear is good. Cassius, what night is this!”
Paraphrase: Casca appreciates Cassius's ability to recognise him merely by hearing his voice. He then remarks upon the extraordinary and frightening nature of the night.
CASSIUS: “A very pleasing night to honest men.”
Paraphrase: Cassius replies that the night, despite its frightening appearance, is actually a pleasant one for honest and courageous people. His remark suggests that he does not share Casca's fear of the strange happenings in the sky.
CASCA: “Who ever knew the heavens menace so?”
Paraphrase: Casca expresses his astonishment at the frightening appearance of the heavens. He asks who has ever witnessed the sky displaying such threatening and terrifying signs.
CASSIUS: “Those that have known the earth so full of faults.”
Paraphrase: Cassius replies that people who understand how corrupt and morally defective the world has become can recognise why the heavens appear so threatening. He suggests that the strange happenings in the sky may be connected with the numerous wrongs and evils committed on earth.
CASSIUS: “For my part, I have walk'd about the streets, submitting me unto the perilous night; and, thus unbraced, Casca, as you see, have bared my bosom to the thunder-stone; and when the cross blue lightning seem'd to open the breast of heaven, I did present myself even in the aim and very flash of it.”
Paraphrase: Cassius explains that he has deliberately walked through the streets despite the dangerous and frightening weather. Unlike an ordinary person, who would naturally seek shelter during such a violent storm, he has exposed himself to its dangers. As Casca can see, he has left his clothes open and uncovered his chest to the thunderbolt. Whenever the blue lightning flashed across the sky and seemed to split open the heavens, Cassius deliberately stood directly in its path, placing himself in the very direction in which the lightning appeared to strike. Through this description, he demonstrates that he is fearless and does not tremble before the terrifying signs of nature.
CASCA: “But wherefore did you so much tempt the heavens? It is the part of men to fear and tremble, when the most mighty gods by tokens send such dreadful heralds to astonish us.”
Paraphrase: Casca asks Cassius why he deliberately exposed himself to such serious danger and challenged the forces of heaven. He argues that ordinary human beings should feel afraid and tremble when the mighty gods send such terrifying signs and warnings to astonish them. According to Casca, these extraordinary happenings should inspire fear and respect rather than encourage people to act recklessly.
CASSIUS: “You are dull, Casca; and those sparks of life that should be in a Roman you do want, or else you use not.”
Paraphrase: Cassius criticises Casca for being dull and lacking courage. He says that Casca either does not possess the qualities of courage, intelligence and determination that a true Roman should have, or he fails to make proper use of the qualities that he possesses. Cassius expects a Roman to think independently and face extraordinary situations with courage rather than simply remain frightened and astonished.
CASSIUS: “You look pale and gaze, and put on fear, and cast yourself in wonder, to see the strange impatience of the heavens.”
Paraphrase: Cassius observes that Casca looks pale with fear and keeps staring at the sky in astonishment. He appears terrified and overwhelmed by the extraordinary disturbances in the heavens. Cassius disapproves of this fearful reaction and considers it unworthy of a courageous Roman.
CASSIUS: “But if you would consider the true cause why all these fires, why all these gliding ghosts, why birds and beasts, from quality and kind; why old men, fools, and children calculate; why all these things change from their ordinance, their natures, and pre-formed faculties, to monstrous quality; why, you shall find that heaven hath infused them with these spirits, to make them instruments of fear and warning unto some monstrous state.”
Paraphrase: Cassius tells Casca that instead of merely being frightened by these extraordinary happenings, he should try to understand their underlying causes and significance. He asks him to think about why mysterious fires appear, why ghosts seem to move about, why birds and animals behave differently from their usual nature, and why even old men, foolish people and children attempt to predict or interpret such unusual events. He also asks why so many things are departing from their established order, natural characteristics and inherent abilities and assuming strange and abnormal forms. Cassius believes that heaven has filled these unusual occurrences with a particular spirit or significance so that they may serve as instruments of fear and warnings of some extraordinary and dangerous situation that is about to arise.
CASSIUS: “Now could I, Casca, name to thee a man most like this dreadful night, that thunders, lightens, opens graves, and roars as doth the lion in the Capitol: a man no mightier than thyself or me in personal action, yet prodigious grown, and fearful, as these strange eruptions are.”
Paraphrase: Cassius now tells Casca that he can identify a man whose nature and present condition resemble the frightening events of that night. This man creates thunder and lightning, seems to open graves and roars like the lion that Casca encountered near the Capitol. In other words, he has become as terrifying and extraordinary as the strange natural occurrences around them. Cassius points out that, in terms of ordinary human abilities and personal strength, this man is no more powerful than either Casca or himself. Yet, despite being no superior to them by nature, he has grown into a figure of extraordinary power and has become an object of fear and astonishment.
CASCA: “'Tis Caesar that you mean, is it not, Cassius?”
Paraphrase: Casca understands the person Cassius is referring to and directly asks whether he means Julius Caesar.
CASSIUS: “Let it be who it is: for Romans now have thews and limbs like to their ancestors; but, woe the while! our fathers' minds are dead, and we are govern'd with our mothers' spirits; our yoke and sufferance show us womanish.”
Paraphrase: Cassius avoids directly confirming Caesar's name and says that it does not matter who the person is. He then complains that the Romans of the present generation still possess the same physical strength, muscular power and bodily abilities as their ancestors. Unfortunately, however, they no longer possess the courage, determination and strong spirit of their forefathers. He metaphorically says that the minds of their fathers are dead and that they are now governed by the timid and submissive spirit traditionally associated with their mothers. Their willingness to remain under the control of another person and tolerate such domination, according to Cassius, makes them appear weak and unmanly. Through these words, he criticises the Romans for allowing themselves to be ruled instead of defending their freedom.
CASCA: “Indeed, they say the senators to-morrow mean to establish Caesar as a king; and he shall wear his crown by sea and land, in every place, save here in Italy.”
Paraphrase: Casca informs Cassius about an important political development. According to what people are saying, the Senators intend to declare Caesar a king the following day. He is expected to wear the royal crown and exercise his authority throughout the territories under Roman control, both by sea and by land. However, Italy itself is to be excluded from the places where he will wear the crown.
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION SET – 1
1. Why does Cicero ask Casca whether he has brought Caesar home?
(A) He wants to know whether Caesar has reached the Capitol.
(B) He wants to know whether Casca has accompanied Caesar home.
(C) He wants Casca to take him to Caesar's house.
(D) He wants to know whether Caesar has met Antonius.
Answer: (B) He wants to know whether Casca has accompanied Caesar home.
2. What makes Cicero question Casca's physical appearance?
(A) Casca is injured and unable to walk properly.
(B) Casca is carrying a sword and looking angry.
(C) Casca is breathless and staring in astonishment.
(D) Casca is trembling because he has seen Caesar.
Answer: (C) Casca is breathless and staring in astonishment.
3. What does Casca say about the condition of the earth?
(A) It appears to be sinking beneath the ocean.
(B) It shakes as though it has lost its stability.
(C) It has become covered with darkness.
(D) It is being destroyed by a violent earthquake.
Answer: (B) It shakes as though it has lost its stability.
4. What had Casca witnessed during earlier storms?
(A) Lightning setting fire to the Capitol.
(B) Winds splitting strong oak trees and the ocean rising violently.
(C) Animals fleeing towards the mountains.
(D) The sea overflowing and destroying the marketplace.
Answer: (B) Winds splitting strong oak trees and the ocean rising violently.
5. How does Casca describe the ocean during the earlier storms?
(A) Calm, silent and motionless.
(B) Frozen and covered with darkness.
(C) Swelling, raging and foaming towards the threatening clouds.
(D) Overflowing its banks and destroying nearby villages.
Answer: (C) Swelling, raging and foaming towards the threatening clouds.
6. What makes the storm of that particular night different from the storms Casca had witnessed earlier?
(A) It continued for several days.
(B) It destroyed the entire city.
(C) It appeared to drop fire from the sky.
(D) It caused the ocean to disappear.
Answer: (C) It appeared to drop fire from the sky.
7. What are the two possible explanations Casca offers for the extraordinary happenings?
(A) The gods are celebrating a victory, or the Romans are preparing for war.
(B) There is a civil conflict among the gods, or human arrogance has angered them.
(C) The ocean is rising, or the earth is losing its balance.
(D) Caesar has offended the Senators, or the people have rebelled.
Answer: (B) There is a civil conflict among the gods, or human arrogance has angered them.
8. What does Cicero ask Casca after hearing about the extraordinary storm?
(A) Whether Caesar has returned home.
(B) Whether Casca has informed the Senators.
(C) Whether he has witnessed anything even more wonderful.
(D) Whether Antonius has seen the same storm.
Answer: (C) Whether he has witnessed anything even more wonderful.
9. What happened to the common slave's left hand?
(A) It was injured by a falling piece of wood.
(B) It appeared to burn like twenty torches but remained unscorched.
(C) It became numb and completely motionless.
(D) It was covered with blood but felt no pain.
Answer: (B) It appeared to burn like twenty torches but remained unscorched.
10. What was unusual about the lion Casca encountered near the Capitol?
(A) It attacked several people before escaping.
(B) It followed Casca through the streets.
(C) It stared fiercely at Casca and passed without harming him.
(D) It entered the Capitol and disappeared.
Answer: (C) It stared fiercely at Casca and passed without harming him.
11. Why does Casca mention that he has not yet put up his sword?
(A) He is preparing to challenge Caesar.
(B) He remains alert and prepared after the frightening encounter.
(C) He has been ordered to guard the Capitol.
(D) He intends to fight the lion if it returns.
Answer: (B) He remains alert and prepared after the frightening encounter.
12. How many frightened women had gathered together according to Casca?
(A) Fifty
(B) Seventy-five
(C) One hundred
(D) Twenty
Answer: (C) One hundred.
13. What extraordinary sight did the frightened women claim to have witnessed?
(A) Men walking through the streets completely surrounded by fire.
(B) Soldiers fighting with invisible enemies.
(C) Lions roaming freely through the marketplace.
(D) Ghosts entering the houses of the Senators.
Answer: (A) Men walking through the streets completely surrounded by fire.
14. What was unusual about the owl mentioned by Casca?
(A) It was flying over the Capitol at midnight.
(B) It was sitting in the marketplace at noon, hooting and shrieking.
(C) It was attacking people in the streets.
(D) It was sitting on Caesar's house throughout the night.
Answer: (B) It was sitting in the marketplace at noon, hooting and shrieking.
15. Why does Casca consider the unusual incidents to be significant?
(A) They have caused widespread destruction in Rome.
(B) They have occurred together and appear to be warnings of something terrible.
(C) They have been reported by the Senators.
(D) They have frightened Caesar and his followers.
Answer: (B) They have occurred together and appear to be warnings of something terrible.
16. What does Cicero suggest about people's interpretation of extraordinary events?
(A) People always understand the true meaning of unusual events.
(B) People interpret events according to their own opinions rather than their actual purpose.
(C) People should never believe in supernatural happenings.
(D) People interpret every event in exactly the same way.
Answer: (B) People interpret events according to their own opinions rather than their actual purpose.
17. What does Cicero mean by calling the present time a “strange-disposed time”?
(A) The political situation is peaceful and stable.
(B) The weather is pleasant and favourable.
(C) The period is marked by unusual and disturbing occurrences.
(D) The Romans have completely abandoned their traditions.
Answer: (C) The period is marked by unusual and disturbing occurrences.
18. What information does Cicero seek from Casca after their discussion of the strange happenings?
(A) Whether Caesar will attend the Capitol the following day.
(B) Whether the Senators have already crowned Caesar.
(C) Whether Antonius has left Rome.
(D) Whether the people have gathered in the marketplace.
Answer: (A) Whether Caesar will attend the Capitol the following day.
19. Who had Caesar instructed to inform Cicero about his visit to the Capitol?
(A) Brutus
(B) Cassius
(C) Antonius
(D) Casca
Answer: (C) Antonius.
20. Why does Cicero decide to leave Casca?
(A) He has to meet Caesar immediately.
(B) The disturbed weather makes walking outside unpleasant and unsafe.
(C) He is afraid that Cassius may arrive.
(D) He has to attend a meeting of the Senators.
Answer: (B) The disturbed weather makes walking outside unpleasant and unsafe.
21. How does Cassius recognise Casca when they meet?
(A) By his appearance.
(B) By the sound of his voice.
(C) By the sword he is carrying.
(D) By the direction from which he approaches.
Answer: (B) By the sound of his voice.
22. How does Cassius describe the night?
(A) As a terrifying night for everyone.
(B) As a peaceful night suitable only for sleeping.
(C) As a very pleasing night for honest men.
(D) As a night that should be avoided by all Romans.
Answer: (C) As a very pleasing night for honest men.
23. What does Cassius reveal about his own behaviour during the storm?
(A) He remained indoors throughout the night.
(B) He deliberately walked through the streets and exposed himself to the storm.
(C) He went to the Capitol to meet Caesar.
(D) He accompanied the frightened women to their homes.
Answer: (B) He deliberately walked through the streets and exposed himself to the storm.
24. What does Cassius do when the lightning appears to split open the heavens?
(A) He runs towards the nearest shelter.
(B) He covers his face and closes his eyes.
(C) He deliberately stands in the path of the lightning.
(D) He calls Casca to protect him.
Answer: (C) He deliberately stands in the path of the lightning.
25. Why does Casca question Cassius's deliberate exposure to the storm?
(A) He believes Cassius is trying to impress Caesar.
(B) He thinks human beings should fear the dreadful signs sent by the mighty gods.
(C) He believes Cassius has been ordered to leave the city.
(D) He suspects that Cassius is responsible for the strange happenings.
Answer: (B) He thinks human beings should fear the dreadful signs sent by the mighty gods.
26. Why does Cassius call Casca “dull”?
(A) Casca is unable to understand Latin.
(B) Casca lacks or fails to use the courage and qualities expected of a Roman.
(C) Casca refuses to accompany him to the Capitol.
(D) Casca is unable to recognise the lion.
Answer: (B) Casca lacks or fails to use the courage and qualities expected of a Roman.
27. What does Cassius criticise in Casca's reaction to the strange happenings?
(A) His unnecessary curiosity about Caesar.
(B) His pale appearance, fearful expression and astonishment.
(C) His unwillingness to speak to Cicero.
(D) His lack of interest in Roman politics.
Answer: (B) His pale appearance, fearful expression and astonishment.
28. According to Cassius, what should Casca do instead of merely staring at the unusual happenings?
(A) Seek shelter from the storm.
(B) Inform the Senators about the incidents.
(C) Consider their true causes and significance.
(D) Ask Caesar to explain them.
Answer: (C) Consider their true causes and significance.
29. Which of the following does Cassius mention as an example of unusual occurrences?
(A) Fires, gliding ghosts and animals behaving contrary to their natural qualities.
(B) Soldiers marching towards the Capitol.
(C) Senators gathering in Caesar's house.
(D) The ocean becoming calm and the winds stopping.
Answer: (A) Fires, gliding ghosts and animals behaving contrary to their natural qualities.
30. According to Cassius, why has heaven infused these unusual happenings with a special spirit?
(A) To reward the Romans for their courage.
(B) To make them instruments of fear and warnings of an extraordinary condition.
(C) To announce Caesar's victory over his enemies.
(D) To punish only those who oppose the Senators.
Answer: (B) To make them instruments of fear and warnings of an extraordinary condition.
31. Which man does Cassius compare to the dreadful night?
(A) Cicero
(B) Brutus
(C) Caesar
(D) Antonius
Answer: (C) Caesar.
32. Which of the following descriptions is used by Cassius to compare the man to the dreadful night?
(A) He thunders, lightens, opens graves and roars like the lion in the Capitol.
(B) He commands the ocean and controls the winds.
(C) He walks through the streets surrounded by fire.
(D) He frightens the Senators by displaying his sword.
Answer: (A) He thunders, lightens, opens graves and roars like the lion in the Capitol.
33. What does Cassius suggest about the man's personal abilities in comparison with his own and Casca's?
(A) The man is physically stronger than both of them.
(B) The man possesses supernatural powers.
(C) The man is no mightier than either of them in personal action.
(D) The man is incapable of defending himself.
Answer: (C) The man is no mightier than either of them in personal action.
34. What does Cassius mean when he says that the man has become “prodigious grown, and fearful”?
(A) The man has become physically deformed.
(B) The man has acquired an extraordinary and terrifying position.
(C) The man has become a supernatural creature.
(D) The man has lost all political influence.
Answer: (B) The man has acquired an extraordinary and terrifying position.
35. How does Casca respond to Cassius's description of the mysterious man?
(A) He asks whether Cassius is referring to Caesar.
(B) He insists that Cassius is referring to Brutus.
(C) He refuses to discuss the matter.
(D) He suggests that the man must be Antonius.
Answer: (A) He asks whether Cassius is referring to Caesar.
36. Why does Cassius say, “Let it be who it is”?
(A) He does not know the identity of the man.
(B) He deliberately avoids directly naming Caesar.
(C) He has forgotten the man's name.
(D) He believes the man's identity is unimportant to Casca.
Answer: (B) He deliberately avoids directly naming Caesar.
37. What similarity does Cassius find between the present Romans and their ancestors?
(A) They possess the same political authority.
(B) They have the same physical strength and bodily abilities.
(C) They follow the same religious beliefs.
(D) They have the same military achievements.
Answer: (B) They have the same physical strength and bodily abilities.
38. What does Cassius believe the present Romans have lost?
(A) Their physical strength and military equipment.
(B) Their knowledge of Roman history.
(C) The courageous and independent spirit of their ancestors.
(D) Their ability to recognise supernatural events.
Answer: (C) The courageous and independent spirit of their ancestors.
39. What is suggested by Cassius's statement that “our fathers' minds are dead”?
(A) The older generation has physically disappeared.
(B) The present generation no longer possesses the wisdom and courage of its forefathers.
(C) The Romans have forgotten their family relationships.
(D) The Senators have lost their authority.
Answer: (B) The present generation no longer possesses the wisdom and courage of its forefathers.
40. What does Cassius imply through the expression “our yoke and sufferance”?
(A) The Romans are enjoying complete political freedom.
(B) The Romans are willingly tolerating domination and subjection.
(C) The Romans are preparing to overthrow the government.
(D) The Romans are refusing to obey their ancestors.
Answer: (B) The Romans are willingly tolerating domination and subjection.
41. What important political information does Casca reveal at the end of the extract?
(A) Caesar has decided to leave Rome permanently.
(B) The Senators intend to establish Caesar as king the following day.
(C) Brutus has been appointed the ruler of Italy.
(D) Cassius has been elected the leader of the Senators.
Answer: (B) The Senators intend to establish Caesar as king the following day.
42. According to Casca, where will Caesar wear his crown?
(A) Only in Rome and the surrounding territories.
(B) Only in Italy and the neighbouring countries.
(C) By sea and land, everywhere except Italy.
(D) Only in the territories controlled by the Senators.
Answer: (C) By sea and land, everywhere except Italy.
43. What does the word “rived” mean in the context of the storm?
(A) Joined together
(B) Split or torn apart
(C) Covered completely
(D) Bent gently
Answer: (B) Split or torn apart.
44. What does the expression “the ambitious ocean” suggest?
(A) The ocean is calm and peaceful.
(B) The ocean appears to rise towards the clouds.
(C) The ocean is gradually drying up.
(D) The ocean is moving away from the shore.
Answer: (B) The ocean appears to rise towards the clouds.
45. What does “saucy” mean in the expression “too saucy with the gods”?
(A) Polite and respectful
(B) Arrogant or disrespectful
(C) Generous and helpful
(D) Frightened and helpless
Answer: (B) Arrogant or disrespectful.
46. What does “unscorched” mean?
(A) Completely burnt
(B) Slightly injured
(C) Not burnt or damaged by fire
(D) Covered with ashes
Answer: (C) Not burnt or damaged by fire.
47. What does the expression “glared upon me” mean?
(A) Looked at Casca affectionately.
(B) Stared at Casca fiercely.
(C) Avoided looking at Casca.
(D) Followed Casca silently.
Answer: (B) Stared at Casca fiercely.
48. What does “drawn upon a heap” mean in the description of the women?
(A) They were lying unconscious on the ground.
(B) They had gathered together in a group.
(C) They were running away in different directions.
(D) They were standing in a long line.
Answer: (B) They had gathered together in a group.
49. What does “ghastly” mean in the context of the frightened women?
(A) Beautiful and attractive
(B) Cheerful and lively
(C) Horrifying or frightening in appearance
(D) Calm and peaceful
Answer: (C) Horrifying or frightening in appearance.
50. What does “prodigies” mean in Casca's description?
(A) Extraordinary and unusual occurrences
(B) Ordinary natural events
(C) Political announcements
(D) Religious ceremonies
Answer: (A) Extraordinary and unusual occurrences.
51. What does “portentous” mean?
(A) Likely to bring happiness
(B) Serving as an omen or warning of something significant
(C) Completely meaningless
(D) Easily understood by everyone
Answer: (B) Serving as an omen or warning of something significant.
52. What does “construe” mean in Cicero's statement?
(A) To destroy
(B) To interpret or explain
(C) To conceal
(D) To announce
Answer: (B) To interpret or explain.
53. What does “unbraced” mean in Cassius's description of himself?
(A) Wearing heavy armour
(B) Having his clothes open or loosened
(C) Carrying a shield
(D) Being completely exhausted
Answer: (B) Having his clothes open or loosened.
54. What is meant by “thews and limbs”?
(A) Religious beliefs and traditions
(B) Muscles and physical strength
(C) Political rights and responsibilities
(D) Intelligence and education
Answer: (B) Muscles and physical strength.
55. What does “womanish” suggest in Cassius's speech?
(A) Kind and compassionate
(B) Weak and submissive, according to Cassius's prejudiced comparison
(C) Intelligent and thoughtful
(D) Gentle and generous
Answer: (B) Weak and submissive, according to Cassius's prejudiced comparison.
56. Which literary device is used in “the ocean swell and rage and foam”?
(A) Personification
(B) Irony
(C) Pun
(D) Oxymoron
Answer: (A) Personification.
57. Which figure of speech is used in “burn like twenty torches joined”?
(A) Metaphor
(B) Simile
(C) Apostrophe
(D) Hyperbole
Answer: (B) Simile.
58. What literary device is used when Cassius compares Caesar to the dreadful night?
(A) Simile
(B) Metaphor
(C) Alliteration
(D) Euphemism
Answer: (B) Metaphor.
59. What is the significance of the extraordinary natural events described by Casca?
(A) They establish a cheerful and celebratory atmosphere.
(B) They create an atmosphere of fear and suggest impending political disorder.
(C) They prove that Caesar has supernatural powers.
(D) They show that the Romans have abandoned the Capitol.
Answer: (B) They create an atmosphere of fear and suggest impending political disorder.
60. What is the principal purpose of Cassius's conversation with Casca?
(A) To persuade Casca to leave Rome.
(B) To encourage Casca to think about the political situation and the growing power of Caesar.
(C) To convince Casca that the storm is harmless.
(D) To arrange a meeting with Cicero.
Answer: (B) To encourage Casca to think about the political situation and the growing power of Caesar.
61. Which of the following correctly represents the sequence of extraordinary incidents described by Casca?
(A) The lion's appearance → the burning hand → the owl at noon → the frightened women.
(B) The burning hand → the lion near the Capitol → the frightened women → the owl at noon.
(C) The owl at noon → the frightened women → the burning hand → the lion.
(D) The frightened women → the lion → the owl at noon → the burning hand.
Answer: (B) The burning hand → the lion near the Capitol → the frightened women → the owl at noon.
62. Which of the following correctly describes the order of the conversations in the extract?
(A) Cassius and Casca → Cicero and Casca → Caesar and Antonius.
(B) Cicero and Casca → Cassius and Casca.
(C) Casca and Brutus → Cicero and Cassius.
(D) Cicero and Caesar → Cassius and Antonius.
Answer: (B) Cicero and Casca → Cassius and Casca.
63. Consider the following statements:
I. Casca believes that the extraordinary events are warnings of something terrible.
II. Cicero believes that people may interpret events according to their own opinions.
Which of the following is correct?
(A) Only Statement I is correct.
(B) Only Statement II is correct.
(C) Both Statements I and II are correct.
(D) Neither Statement I nor Statement II is correct.
Answer: (C) Both Statements I and II are correct.
64. Consider the following statements about Cassius:
I. He deliberately exposes himself to the dangers of the storm.
II. He considers Casca's fearful reaction unworthy of a Roman.
III. He believes that the present Romans possess the same courageous spirit as their ancestors.
Which of the following is correct?
(A) Only I and II are correct.
(B) Only II and III are correct.
(C) Only I and III are correct.
(D) I, II and III are correct.
Answer: (A) Only I and II are correct.
65. Which of the following statements is NOT TRUE according to the extract?
(A) Cicero asks Casca whether Caesar will visit the Capitol the next day.
(B) Caesar has asked Antonius to inform Cicero about his visit.
(C) Cassius hides from the storm because he is afraid of lightning.
(D) Casca reports that the Senators intend to establish Caesar as king.
Answer: (C) Cassius hides from the storm because he is afraid of lightning.
66. Which of the following best describes the difference between Casca's and Cassius's reactions to the storm?
(A) Casca welcomes it, whereas Cassius condemns it.
(B) Casca is frightened by it, whereas Cassius deliberately confronts it.
(C) Both consider it harmless and ordinary.
(D) Both believe that it has no connection with human affairs.
Answer: (B) Casca is frightened by it, whereas Cassius deliberately confronts it.
67. Which statement best expresses the political concern underlying Cassius's words?
(A) Rome needs a stronger army to defeat foreign enemies.
(B) The Romans are allowing one man to acquire excessive power because they lack the courage to resist.
(C) The Senators are unwilling to participate in government.
(D) Caesar is incapable of ruling the Roman territories.
Answer: (B) The Romans are allowing one man to acquire excessive power because they lack the courage to resist.
68. What is the most important dramatic purpose of ending the extract with Casca's statement about Caesar's proposed kingship?
(A) It shifts attention from the natural disturbances to the serious political development.
(B) It proves that the Senators have already crowned Caesar.
(C) It establishes that Cassius has become the ruler of Rome.
(D) It reveals that Caesar has decided to abandon Italy.
Answer: (A) It shifts attention from the natural disturbances to the serious political development.
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS – SET 2
1. What does Casca's description of the violent winds splitting the oak trees establish about the storms he had witnessed earlier?
(A) They were ordinary seasonal disturbances.
(B) They were powerful enough to damage even strong and firmly rooted trees.
(C) They were accompanied by unusual appearances of animals.
(D) They were less dangerous than the disturbances of the ocean.
Answer: (B) They were powerful enough to damage even strong and firmly rooted trees.
2. Why does Casca describe the ocean as “ambitious” in his account of the storm?
(A) It appears to be attempting to rise towards the threatening clouds.
(B) It seems to be trying to destroy the Capitol.
(C) It is described as competing with the winds in strength.
(D) It appears to be moving away from its natural boundaries.
Answer: (A) It appears to be attempting to rise towards the threatening clouds.
3. What is the significance of the expression “to be exalted with the threatening clouds”?
(A) The ocean appears to be rising towards the clouds.
(B) The clouds appear to be descending into the ocean.
(C) The ocean is becoming calm under the clouds.
(D) The clouds are disappearing because of the ocean.
Answer: (A) The ocean appears to be rising towards the clouds.
4. What does Casca's inability to recall a similar storm in the past indicate?
(A) He has never witnessed any natural disturbance before.
(B) The present storm is exceptionally unusual in comparison with his previous experiences.
(C) The earlier storms were more destructive than the present one.
(D) He believes that the storm has been deliberately created by human beings.
Answer: (B) The present storm is exceptionally unusual in comparison with his previous experiences.
5. Which idea is conveyed by Casca's suggestion that the world may be “too saucy with the gods”?
(A) Human beings have become excessively arrogant towards divine powers.
(B) The gods have become indifferent to human suffering.
(C) Human beings have completely lost their ability to understand nature.
(D) The gods are competing with one another for authority over the world.
Answer: (A) Human beings have become excessively arrogant towards divine powers.
6. Why is the burning hand of the slave particularly extraordinary?
(A) It produces flames that illuminate the entire street.
(B) It remains unaffected despite appearing to be engulfed in fire.
(C) It becomes stronger after being exposed to fire.
(D) It causes the slave to lose consciousness.
Answer: (B) It remains unaffected despite appearing to be engulfed in fire.
7. What contrast is presented through the description of the slave's hand?
(A) The hand is physically weak but mentally courageous.
(B) It appears to be burning, yet suffers no injury from the fire.
(C) It is bright in daylight but invisible at night.
(D) It is injured by fire but causes no pain to the slave.
Answer: (B) It appears to be burning, yet suffers no injury from the fire.
8. What does the expression “without annoying me” reveal about the lion's encounter with Casca?
(A) The lion did not even notice Casca.
(B) The lion passed without attacking or harming Casca.
(C) The lion became friendly with Casca.
(D) The lion followed Casca without showing any hostility.
Answer: (B) The lion passed without attacking or harming Casca.
9. What does Casca's description of the women as “transformed with their fear” suggest?
(A) Their appearance had been affected by extreme terror.
(B) They had changed their clothes to disguise themselves.
(C) They had become physically stronger after the incident.
(D) They had gathered to celebrate an extraordinary event.
Answer: (A) Their appearance had been affected by extreme terror.
10. Why is the owl's appearance at noon especially significant in Casca's account?
(A) Owls are generally associated with darkness, making its presence and cries in broad daylight unusual.
(B) The owl was larger than the birds usually seen in Rome.
(C) The owl was sitting on the highest building in the city.
(D) The owl was surrounded by several other birds.
Answer: (A) Owls are generally associated with darkness, making its presence and cries in broad daylight unusual.
11. What does Casca imply by using the expression “so conjointly meet”?
(A) The unusual occurrences have taken place in different countries.
(B) Several extraordinary incidents have occurred together.
(C) The incidents have been witnessed by the same person.
(D) The incidents have taken place at exactly the same hour.
Answer: (B) Several extraordinary incidents have occurred together.
12. Why does Casca reject the explanation that the incidents are simply natural occurrences?
(A) He has received a warning from the Senators.
(B) He believes their unusual and simultaneous occurrence points towards a deeper warning.
(C) He has discovered that Caesar is responsible for them.
(D) He believes that all natural events are controlled by human beings.
Answer: (B) He believes their unusual and simultaneous occurrence points towards a deeper warning.
13. What does Cicero's response to Casca's account reveal about his approach to unusual events?
(A) He immediately accepts Casca's interpretation.
(B) He dismisses every unusual occurrence as imaginary.
(C) He recognises the strange nature of the times but questions the reliability of people's interpretations.
(D) He believes that the incidents are entirely the result of political conspiracies.
Answer: (C) He recognises the strange nature of the times but questions the reliability of people's interpretations.
14. What is the significance of Cicero's reference to things being interpreted “clean from the purpose of the things themselves”?
(A) People may interpret events in ways that are completely disconnected from their actual significance.
(B) People should avoid discussing unusual incidents.
(C) Every unusual event has only one possible explanation.
(D) The purpose of natural events is always understood by educated people.
Answer: (A) People may interpret events in ways that are completely disconnected from their actual significance.
15. What does Cicero's question about Caesar's visit reveal about the immediate political situation?
(A) Caesar's movements and activities are of interest to other Roman citizens.
(B) Caesar has already been declared king.
(C) Caesar has refused to visit the Capitol.
(D) Cicero has been appointed to accompany Caesar.
Answer: (A) Caesar's movements and activities are of interest to other Roman citizens.
16. What does Casca's reply about Antonius establish?
(A) Antonius has independently arranged a meeting with Cicero.
(B) Caesar has already reached the Capitol.
(C) Caesar has entrusted Antonius with conveying information about his intended visit.
(D) Antonius has been asked to inform the Senators about the storm.
Answer: (C) Caesar has entrusted Antonius with conveying information about his intended visit.
17. What does Cicero's departure suggest about his attitude towards the disturbed weather?
(A) He is willing to remain outside despite the danger.
(B) He considers the conditions unsuitable for walking and decides to leave.
(C) He wants to investigate the unusual incidents further.
(D) He intends to meet the frightened women.
Answer: (B) He considers the conditions unsuitable for walking and decides to leave.
18. Why is Cassius's recognition of Casca by his voice noteworthy?
(A) It establishes that Cassius is familiar with Casca and can identify him without seeing him.
(B) It suggests that Casca is shouting loudly.
(C) It shows that Cassius has been following Casca.
(D) It indicates that Casca has changed his appearance.
Answer: (A) It establishes that Cassius is familiar with Casca and can identify him without seeing him.
19. What does Cassius's description of the night as pleasing to honest men suggest about his outlook?
(A) He regards the storm as an opportunity to demonstrate courage and fearlessness.
(B) He believes that honest people are protected from all natural disasters.
(C) He considers the storm a sign of good weather.
(D) He thinks that only dishonest people are affected by lightning.
Answer: (A) He regards the storm as an opportunity to demonstrate courage and fearlessness.
20. What is the significance of Cassius's statement that he has “bared my bosom to the thunder-stone”?
(A) He has deliberately exposed his chest to the danger of a thunderbolt.
(B) He has been injured by a falling stone.
(C) He has removed his armour before entering the Capitol.
(D) He has used his chest to protect Casca from the storm.
Answer: (A) He has deliberately exposed his chest to the danger of a thunderbolt.
21. What does Cassius's behaviour during the storm communicate about his personality?
(A) He is cautious and avoids unnecessary risks.
(B) He is deliberately defiant and wishes to demonstrate his fearlessness.
(C) He is confused and unable to understand the situation.
(D) He is dependent on Casca for protection.
Answer: (B) He is deliberately defiant and wishes to demonstrate his fearlessness.
22. Why does Cassius refer to the “sparks of life” that should be present in a Roman?
(A) To suggest that every Roman should possess courage and an active, independent spirit.
(B) To explain the mysterious fires appearing in the streets.
(C) To describe the physical strength of the Roman soldiers.
(D) To suggest that Romans should fear the power of the gods.
Answer: (A) To suggest that every Roman should possess courage and an active, independent spirit.
23. What does Cassius mean by saying that Casca either lacks the qualities expected of a Roman or does not use them?
(A) Casca has no knowledge of Roman history.
(B) Casca may possess courage and strength but fails to demonstrate them.
(C) Casca has deliberately abandoned his Roman citizenship.
(D) Casca is unwilling to participate in military activities.
Answer: (B) Casca may possess courage and strength but fails to demonstrate them.
24. What does Cassius's reference to birds and beasts departing from their “quality and kind” suggest?
(A) Animals are displaying behaviour contrary to their usual nature.
(B) Animals have become more powerful than human beings.
(C) Animals have started attacking the Roman government.
(D) Animals are migrating towards the sea.
Answer: (A) Animals are displaying behaviour contrary to their usual nature.
25. Why does Cassius include “old men, fools, and children” in his description of unusual happenings?
(A) To show that people of different ages and levels of understanding are attempting to interpret or predict events.
(B) To suggest that only children understand supernatural signs.
(C) To establish that the old men have become politically powerful.
(D) To show that the entire population has gathered at the Capitol.
Answer: (A) To show that people of different ages and levels of understanding are attempting to interpret or predict events.
26. What does Cassius's description of things changing from their “ordinance” and “pre-formed faculties” indicate?
(A) Things are returning to their original condition.
(B) Things are abandoning their established order and natural characteristics.
(C) The natural world is becoming more peaceful.
(D) Human beings are acquiring greater physical strength.
Answer: (B) Things are abandoning their established order and natural characteristics.
27. What is the implication of Cassius's reference to a “monstrous state”?
(A) A condition of extraordinary abnormality or danger.
(B) A peaceful and prosperous political system.
(C) A period of ordinary natural changes.
(D) A situation in which the Romans have achieved complete freedom.
Answer: (A) A condition of extraordinary abnormality or danger.
28. Why does Cassius describe the man as “no mightier than thyself or me in personal action”?
(A) To emphasise that the man's extraordinary influence does not necessarily arise from superior personal ability.
(B) To establish that the man is physically weaker than every Roman.
(C) To prove that the man has no political authority.
(D) To suggest that the man is unaware of his own power.
Answer: (A) To emphasise that the man's extraordinary influence does not necessarily arise from superior personal ability.
29. What does Cassius's comparison of Caesar with the dreadful night indirectly communicate?
(A) Caesar has become an ordinary and insignificant citizen.
(B) Caesar's growing power and influence have become alarming and extraordinary.
(C) Caesar is personally responsible for every unusual natural occurrence.
(D) Caesar is afraid of the people of Rome.
Answer: (B) Caesar's growing power and influence have become alarming and extraordinary.
30. What is the central idea of Cassius's criticism of the present generation of Romans?
(A) They have lost their physical abilities because of political corruption.
(B) They possess physical strength but lack the courage and independent spirit of their ancestors.
(C) They have forgotten how to interpret natural signs.
(D) They have become unwilling to serve in the Roman army.
Answer: (B) They possess physical strength but lack the courage and independent spirit of their ancestors.
31. Which of the following correctly presents the sequence of Casca's observations during the extraordinary night?
(A) Violent winds and ocean → fiery storm → burning hand → lion near the Capitol.
(B) Lion near the Capitol → violent winds and ocean → owl at noon → burning hand.
(C) Burning hand → owl at noon → violent winds → frightened women.
(D) Frightened women → burning hand → fiery storm → lion near the Capitol.
Answer: (A) Violent winds and ocean → fiery storm → burning hand → lion near the Capitol.
32. Arrange the following events in the order in which they occur in the supplied extract.
I. Cicero asks Casca whether Caesar will visit the Capitol.
II. Casca describes the extraordinary behaviour of the owl.
III. Cicero questions Casca about the strange condition of his appearance.
IV. Casca explains that the Senators intend to establish Caesar as king.
(A) III, II, I, IV
(B) II, III, IV, I
(C) I, III, II, IV
(D) III, I, II, IV
Answer: (A) III, II, I, IV.
33. Which sequence correctly represents the transition between the two conversations?
(A) Cassius enters → Cicero questions Casca → Cicero leaves → Casca meets Cassius.
(B) Cicero speaks with Casca → Cicero leaves → Cassius meets Casca → their discussion turns to Caesar.
(C) Casca meets Cassius → Cicero enters → Cassius leaves → Caesar is mentioned.
(D) Cicero leaves → Caesar arrives → Cassius speaks to Antonius.
Answer: (B) Cicero speaks with Casca → Cicero leaves → Cassius meets Casca → their discussion turns to Caesar.
34. Which sequence correctly describes the development of Cassius's argument?
I. He criticises Casca's fearful reaction.
II. He explains his own deliberate exposure to the storm.
III. He asks Casca to consider the causes of unusual happenings.
IV. He compares a powerful man to the dreadful night.
V. He criticises the present Romans for lacking their ancestors' spirit.
(A) II, I, III, IV, V
(B) I, II, IV, III, V
(C) III, II, I, V, IV
(D) II, III, V, I, IV
Answer: (A) II, I, III, IV, V.
35. Which event occurs immediately before Cicero takes leave of Casca?
(A) Casca describes the lion near the Capitol.
(B) Cicero asks whether Caesar will visit the Capitol the following day, and Casca confirms it.
(C) Cassius enters and questions Casca.
(D) Casca tells Cicero that the Senators intend to crown Caesar.
Answer: (B) Cicero asks whether Caesar will visit the Capitol the following day, and Casca confirms it.
36. Which statement correctly identifies the progression of the subject matter in the extract?
(A) Political ambition → Roman history → natural disturbances → Caesar's departure.
(B) Natural disturbances → interpretation of unusual events → Caesar's visit → Cassius's political criticism → proposed kingship.
(C) Caesar's visit → the lion's appearance → the ocean storm → Cicero's departure.
(D) Roman military strength → the Senators' decision → the frightened women → the storm.
Answer: (B) Natural disturbances → interpretation of unusual events → Caesar's visit → Cassius's political criticism → proposed kingship.
37. Which literary device is most clearly employed in the expression “the scolding winds”?
(A) Personification
(B) Metonymy
(C) Irony
(D) Euphemism
Answer: (A) Personification.
38. What literary device is used in describing the ocean as “ambitious”?
(A) Hyperbole
(B) Personification
(C) Onomatopoeia
(D) Oxymoron
Answer: (B) Personification.
39. Which device is used in the expression “the heavens menace”?
(A) Personification
(B) Pun
(C) Paradox
(D) Litotes
Answer: (A) Personification.
40. What is the effect of the expression “thunders, lightens, opens graves, and roars”?
(A) It presents a series of powerful and frightening images to emphasise the man's terrifying nature.
(B) It establishes a peaceful atmosphere through natural imagery.
(C) It describes the ordinary daily activities of Roman citizens.
(D) It creates humour by exaggerating the behaviour of animals.
Answer: (A) It presents a series of powerful and frightening images to emphasise the man's terrifying nature.
41. Which literary device is used in “the cross blue lightning”?
(A) Visual imagery
(B) Verbal irony
(C) Apostrophe
(D) Pun
Answer: (A) Visual imagery.
42. Which expression most clearly appeals to the sense of hearing?
(A) “the ambitious ocean”
(B) “the cross blue lightning”
(C) “hooting and shrieking”
(D) “bared my bosom”
Answer: (C) “hooting and shrieking”.
43. What is the effect of the repeated use of the word “why” in Cassius's long speech about unusual occurrences?
(A) It creates a series of rhetorical questions that encourage Casca to think about the significance of the events.
(B) It shows that Cassius is unable to remember the incidents.
(C) It indicates that Cassius is asking for factual information about the weather.
(D) It makes the speech humorous and entertaining.
Answer: (A) It creates a series of rhetorical questions that encourage Casca to think about the significance of the events.
44. Which figure of speech is most evident in the expression “our fathers' minds are dead”?
(A) Metaphor
(B) Simile
(C) Alliteration
(D) Onomatopoeia
Answer: (A) Metaphor.
45. What is the effect of Cassius's comparison of the present Romans with their ancestors?
(A) It highlights the contrast between their physical abilities and their diminished courage and independence.
(B) It proves that the present Romans are physically weaker.
(C) It establishes that the ancestors supported Caesar's kingship.
(D) It suggests that the present Romans have forgotten their language.
Answer: (A) It highlights the contrast between their physical abilities and their diminished courage and independence.
For Questions 46–52, choose the correct option:
(A) Both Statement I and Statement II are true, and Statement II correctly explains Statement I.
(B) Both Statement I and Statement II are true, but Statement II does not correctly explain Statement I.
(C) Statement I is true, but Statement II is false.
(D) Statement I is false, but Statement II is true.
46. Statement I: Casca considers the extraordinary occurrences to be ominous signs.
Statement II: He believes that their simultaneous appearance cannot simply be dismissed as ordinary natural events.
Answer: (A) Both statements are true, and Statement II correctly explains Statement I.
47. Statement I: Cicero accepts every interpretation offered by Casca about the strange occurrences.
Statement II: Cicero believes that people may interpret events according to their own ways of thinking.
Answer: (D) Statement I is false, but Statement II is true.
48. Statement I: Cassius deliberately exposes himself to the dangers of the storm.
Statement II: He wishes to demonstrate that he is not frightened by the threatening signs in the heavens.
Answer: (A) Both statements are true, and Statement II correctly explains Statement I.
49. Statement I: Cassius considers Casca's reaction appropriate for a courageous Roman.
Statement II: Cassius believes that a Roman should possess courage and make proper use of his natural qualities.
Answer: (D) Statement I is false, but Statement II is true.
50. Statement I: Cassius suggests that the strange occurrences may serve as warnings of an extraordinary and dangerous situation.
Statement II: He believes that heaven has infused these occurrences with a spirit that makes them instruments of fear and warning.
Answer: (A) Both statements are true, and Statement II correctly explains Statement I.
51. Statement I: Cassius believes that Caesar's personal abilities are naturally superior to those of every other Roman.
Statement II: He says that the man he has in mind is no mightier than Casca or himself in personal action.
Answer: (D) Statement I is false, but Statement II is true.
52. Statement I: Cassius believes that the present Romans have retained the physical strength of their ancestors but lost their courageous spirit.
Statement II: He contrasts their physical strength with the dead minds of their fathers and their own submissive behaviour.
Answer: (A) Both statements are true, and Statement II correctly explains Statement I.
53. Consider the following statements about the extraordinary happenings described by Casca:
I. The slave's left hand appeared to burn without being scorched.
II. The lion near the Capitol attacked Casca.
III. A group of frightened women claimed to have seen fiery men walking through the streets.
IV. An owl was seen in the marketplace at noon.
Which combination is correct?
(A) I, II and III
(B) I, III and IV
(C) II, III and IV
(D) I, II, III and IV
Answer: (B) I, III and IV.
54. Consider the following statements about Cicero:
I. He questions Casca about his breathlessness and unusual appearance.
II. He asks whether Casca has witnessed anything more wonderful.
III. He believes that people always interpret events correctly.
IV. He asks whether Caesar will visit the Capitol the following day.
Which combination is correct?
(A) I, II and IV
(B) I, II and III
(C) II, III and IV
(D) I, III and IV
Answer: (A) I, II and IV.
55. Consider the following statements about Cassius's conduct during the storm:
I. He walks through the streets despite the dangerous weather.
II. He leaves his chest exposed to the thunderbolt.
III. He deliberately stands in the path of the lightning.
IV. He seeks shelter whenever the lightning flashes.
Which combination is correct?
(A) I and IV
(B) II and IV
(C) I, II and III
(D) I, II, III and IV
Answer: (C) I, II and III.
56. Consider the following statements about Cassius's criticism of Casca:
I. He calls Casca dull.
II. He criticises Casca's pale and frightened appearance.
III. He believes Casca should consider the true causes of the unusual events.
IV. He praises Casca for his calmness and courage.
Which combination is correct?
(A) I, II and III
(B) I, III and IV
(C) II, III and IV
(D) I, II, III and IV
Answer: (A) I, II and III.
57. Consider the following statements about Cassius's interpretation of the unusual occurrences:
I. Fires and gliding ghosts are among the phenomena he mentions.
II. He refers to birds and beasts behaving contrary to their natural qualities.
III. He suggests that the occurrences may be warnings of a dangerous condition.
IV. He declares that all the incidents are meaningless accidents.
Which combination is correct?
(A) I and II only
(B) II and IV only
(C) I, II and III
(D) I, II, III and IV
Answer: (C) I, II and III.
58. Consider the following statements about Caesar and the proposed kingship:
I. Cassius indirectly refers to Caesar while describing a man resembling the dreadful night.
II. Casca identifies Caesar as the person Cassius has in mind.
III. Casca reports that the Senators intend to establish Caesar as king the following day.
IV. Casca says that Caesar will wear his crown only in Italy.
Which combination is correct?
(A) I and II only
(B) II, III and IV
(C) I, II and III
(D) I, II, III and IV
Answer: (C) I, II and III.
59. Which mood is primarily created by Casca's description of the storm, the burning hand and the strange behaviour of animals?
(A) Humorous and playful
(B) Mysterious and ominous
(C) Romantic and peaceful
(D) Cheerful and celebratory
Answer: (B) Mysterious and ominous.
60. Which emotion is most clearly reflected in Casca's description of the frightened women?
(A) Pride
(B) Amusement
(C) Terror
(D) Excitement
Answer: (C) Terror.
61. What attitude does Cicero display while listening to Casca's account?
(A) Complete disbelief and ridicule.
(B) Thoughtful caution and intellectual restraint.
(C) Uncontrolled excitement and panic.
(D) Anger towards the Senators.
Answer: (B) Thoughtful caution and intellectual restraint.
62. Which quality is most strongly displayed by Cassius when he exposes himself to the storm?
(A) Cowardice
(B) Defiance and fearlessness
(C) Indifference towards Casca
(D) Religious devotion
Answer: (B) Defiance and fearlessness.
63. What emotion does Cassius attempt to provoke in Casca through his criticism?
(A) Shame about his fearful and passive attitude.
(B) Happiness about the proposed kingship.
(C) Sympathy for the frightened women.
(D) Pride in the power of Caesar.
Answer: (A) Shame about his fearful and passive attitude.
64. Which mood is conveyed by Cassius's description of Caesar as a man resembling the dreadful night?
(A) Admiration and affection.
(B) Anxiety and apprehension about an increasingly powerful individual.
(C) Relief and satisfaction.
(D) Indifference and amusement.
Answer: (B) Anxiety and apprehension about an increasingly powerful individual.
65. What feeling underlies Cassius's criticism of the present generation of Romans?
(A) Pride in their unquestioning obedience.
(B) Disappointment and resentment over their lack of courage and independence.
(C) Satisfaction with their political condition.
(D) Fear of their physical strength.
Answer: (B) Disappointment and resentment over their lack of courage and independence.
66. Which of the following statements is NOT TRUE about the storm described by Casca?
(A) He had previously witnessed winds splitting strong oak trees.
(B) He had seen the ocean swell and foam.
(C) He had frequently experienced storms dropping fire.
(D) He considers the present storm unlike anything he had experienced before.
Answer: (C) He had frequently experienced storms dropping fire.
67. Which of the following is NOT TRUE about the slave's extraordinary experience?
(A) The slave was a common person.
(B) His left hand appeared to burn like twenty torches.
(C) His hand remained unscorched.
(D) His entire body was engulfed in flames.
Answer: (D) His entire body was engulfed in flames.
68. Which statement is NOT TRUE about the lion encountered by Casca?
(A) It was seen near the Capitol.
(B) It stared at Casca.
(C) It passed without harming him.
(D) It attacked Casca and wounded him.
Answer: (D) It attacked Casca and wounded him.
69. Which statement is NOT TRUE about the owl described by Casca?
(A) It appeared in the marketplace.
(B) It was seen at noon.
(C) It was hooting and shrieking.
(D) It was sitting silently on the Capitol at midnight.
Answer: (D) It was sitting silently on the Capitol at midnight.
70. Which statement is NOT TRUE about Cicero's interpretation of unusual events?
(A) He recognises that the present time is strange.
(B) He believes that people interpret events according to their own understanding.
(C) He suggests that people's interpretations may differ from the actual purpose of events.
(D) He declares that Casca's interpretation is unquestionably correct.
Answer: (D) He declares that Casca's interpretation is unquestionably correct.
71. Which statement is NOT TRUE about Cassius's behaviour during the storm?
(A) He walks through the streets.
(B) He deliberately exposes his chest to the thunderbolt.
(C) He stands in the path of the lightning.
(D) He trembles and runs away whenever lightning flashes.
Answer: (D) He trembles and runs away whenever lightning flashes.
72. Which statement is NOT TRUE about Cassius's attitude towards Casca?
(A) He considers Casca dull.
(B) He criticises Casca's fearful appearance.
(C) He encourages Casca to think about the true causes of unusual events.
(D) He praises Casca for displaying the ideal qualities of a Roman.
Answer: (D) He praises Casca for displaying the ideal qualities of a Roman.
73. Which statement is NOT TRUE about Cassius's interpretation of the unusual occurrences?
(A) He mentions fires and gliding ghosts.
(B) He refers to birds and beasts departing from their natural qualities.
(C) He considers the occurrences possible instruments of warning.
(D) He believes that these occurrences have no connection with any dangerous situation.
Answer: (D) He believes that these occurrences have no connection with any dangerous situation.
74. Which statement is NOT TRUE about the man described by Cassius?
(A) He resembles the dreadful night.
(B) He is compared to the roaring lion in the Capitol.
(C) He is described as no mightier than Cassius or Casca in personal action.
(D) He is described as physically superior to every Roman.
Answer: (D) He is described as physically superior to every Roman.
75. Which statement is NOT TRUE about Cassius's view of the present Romans?
(A) They possess physical strength similar to that of their ancestors.
(B) They have lost the courageous spirit of their forefathers.
(C) Their submissive behaviour makes them appear weak in his opinion.
(D) They have demonstrated greater independence than their ancestors.
Answer: (D) They have demonstrated greater independence than their ancestors.
76. Which statement is NOT TRUE about the proposed kingship of Caesar?
(A) Casca reports that the Senators intend to establish Caesar as king.
(B) The proposed declaration is expected to take place the following day.
(C) Caesar is expected to wear his crown by sea and land.
(D) Casca says that Caesar will wear his crown exclusively in Italy.
Answer: (D) Casca says that Caesar will wear his crown exclusively in Italy.
77. What does “sway” mean in the expression “all the sway of earth shakes”?
(A) Influence or control
(B) Movement or extent
(C) Beauty or appearance
(D) Silence or stillness
Answer: (B) Movement or extent.
78. What does “tempest” mean?
(A) A gentle breeze
(B) A violent storm
(C) A heavy snowfall
(D) A period of extreme heat
Answer: (B) A violent storm.
79. What does “raging” convey in the description of the ocean?
(A) Moving gently
(B) Displaying violent and uncontrolled movement
(C) Becoming completely motionless
(D) Gradually disappearing
Answer: (B) Displaying violent and uncontrolled movement.
80. What does “sensible of fire” mean in the description of the slave's hand?
(A) Capable of producing fire
(B) Aware of or affected by the sensation of fire
(C) Completely protected by water
(D) Unable to see flames
Answer: (B) Aware of or affected by the sensation of fire.
81. What does “surly” mean in the description of the lion?
(A) In a bad-tempered or threatening manner
(B) In a friendly and affectionate manner
(C) In a careless and playful manner
(D) In a frightened and helpless manner
Answer: (A) In a bad-tempered or threatening manner.
82. What does “hooding” or “hooting” refer to in the description of the owl?
(A) Making the characteristic call of an owl
(B) Flying rapidly over the marketplace
(C) Attacking another bird
(D) Moving its wings noisily
Answer: (A) Making the characteristic call of an owl.
83. What does “astonish” mean in Casca's description of the divine signs?
(A) To confuse completely
(B) To surprise greatly
(C) To encourage strongly
(D) To satisfy completely
Answer: (B) To surprise greatly.
84. What does “perilous” mean in Cassius's description of the night?
(A) Pleasant
(B) Dangerous
(C) Ordinary
(D) Uncomfortable only
Answer: (B) Dangerous.
85. What does “cross” mean in the expression “cross blue lightning”?
(A) Moving in a crossing or intersecting direction
(B) Angry and displeased
(C) Extremely bright
(D) Completely motionless
Answer: (A) Moving in a crossing or intersecting direction.
86. What does “infused” mean in Cassius's description of heaven's influence?
(A) Removed completely
(B) Filled or endowed with something
(C) Destroyed gradually
(D) Hidden from view
Answer: (B) Filled or endowed with something.
87. What does “faculty” mean in the expression “pre-formed faculties”?
(A) Natural ability or capacity
(B) Political authority
(C) Religious organisation
(D) Physical appearance
Answer: (A) Natural ability or capacity.
88. What does “sufferance” mean in Cassius's criticism of the Romans?
(A) Their willingness to tolerate or endure domination.
(B) Their ability to defeat their enemies.
(C) Their freedom to make political decisions.
(D) Their refusal to obey the Senators.
Answer: (A) Their willingness to tolerate or endure domination.
ONE-MARK QUESTIONS
1. Whom does Cicero meet at the beginning of the extract?
Cicero meets Casca.
2. What does Cicero ask Casca about Caesar?
He asks whether Casca has brought Caesar home.
3. What two things about Casca's appearance attract Cicero's attention?
Casca is breathless and staring in astonishment.
4. What does Casca say about the condition of the earth?
He says that the earth seems to shake as though it has lost its stability.
5. What had the violent winds done to the oak trees?
They had split strong oak trees.
6. How does Casca describe the ocean during the storm?
He describes it as swelling, raging and foaming towards the threatening clouds.
7. What unusual phenomenon does Casca describe about the storm?
He says that the storm seemed to drop fire from the sky.
8. Had Casca ever witnessed a similar storm before?
No, he says he had never witnessed anything like it.
9. What does Casca suggest might be happening among the gods?
He suggests that there may be civil conflict among the gods.
10. What alternative explanation does Casca offer for the extraordinary events?
He suggests that the world may have become too arrogant towards the gods.
11. What does Cicero ask Casca after hearing his account of the storm?
He asks whether Casca has witnessed anything even more wonderful.
12. Whose left hand appeared to be burning?
The left hand of a common slave appeared to be burning.
13. Like what did the slave's burning hand appear to shine?
It appeared to burn like twenty torches joined together.
14. Was the slave's hand actually scorched by the apparent fire?
No, the hand remained unscorched.
15. Where did Casca encounter the lion?
He encountered it near the Capitol.
16. How did the lion behave when it saw Casca?
It stared fiercely at him and passed without harming him.
17. Why does Casca say that he has not yet put up his sword?
He remains alert and prepared after witnessing the extraordinary incidents.
18. How many frightened women had gathered together?
One hundred women had gathered together.
19. What extraordinary sight did the women claim to have witnessed?
They claimed to have seen men walking through the streets surrounded by fire.
20. Where was the owl seen?
It was seen in the marketplace.
21. At what time was the owl seen in the marketplace?
It was seen at noon.
22. What was the owl doing in the marketplace?
It was hooting and shrieking.
23. Why does Casca consider these incidents extraordinary?
They are unusual occurrences that appear to have happened together and suggest a warning.
24. What does Casca believe these unusual occurrences indicate?
He believes they are ominous signs pointing towards something terrible.
25. What does Casca mean by saying that the incidents are not merely natural?
He believes their extraordinary nature and simultaneous occurrence suggest a deeper significance.
26. How does Cicero describe the present time?
He describes it as a strange-disposed time.
27. According to Cicero, how do people interpret extraordinary events?
They interpret them according to their own opinions rather than their actual purpose.
28. What does Cicero suggest about the relationship between an event and people's interpretation of it?
He suggests that people's interpretations may differ from the actual significance of the event.
29. What does Cicero ask Casca about Caesar's plans for the following day?
He asks whether Caesar will visit the Capitol the next day.
30. What is Casca's reply regarding Caesar's visit?
He confirms that Caesar will visit the Capitol the following day.
31. Whom had Caesar asked to convey his message to Cicero?
Caesar had asked Antonius to convey the message.
32. What message had Antonius been asked to convey to Cicero?
He was to inform Cicero that Caesar would be at the Capitol the next day.
33. Why does Cicero decide to leave Casca?
He considers the disturbed weather unsuitable for walking outside.
34. How does Cicero take leave of Casca?
He wishes Casca good night and departs.
35. Who enters after Cicero's departure?
Cassius enters.
36. How does Cassius recognise Casca?
He recognises Casca by his voice.
37. How does Casca describe the night to Cassius?
He describes it as a strange and frightening night.
38. How does Cassius describe the night?
He calls it a pleasing night for honest men.
39. What does Casca ask Cassius about the heavens?
He asks whether Cassius has ever seen the heavens threaten in such a manner.
40. According to Cassius, who can understand the meaning of such extraordinary disturbances?
Those who know that the earth is full of faults can understand them.
41. What does Cassius say he did during the dangerous night?
He walked through the streets and deliberately exposed himself to the storm.
42. How did Cassius expose himself to the thunderbolt?
He left his bosom bare to the thunderbolt.
43. What did Cassius do when the lightning flashed across the sky?
He deliberately stood in the path of the cross blue lightning.
44. Why does Casca question Cassius's behaviour during the storm?
He believes that human beings should fear the dreadful signs sent by the mighty gods.
45. What does Casca believe people should do when the gods send frightening signs?
They should fear and tremble before the mighty gods.
46. What does Cassius call Casca during their conversation?
He calls Casca dull.
47. What does Cassius believe Casca lacks or fails to use?
He believes Casca lacks or fails to use the sparks of life expected in a Roman.
48. What does Cassius criticise about Casca's physical appearance?
He criticises his pale appearance and frightened expression.
49. What does Cassius ask Casca to consider?
He asks him to consider the causes and significance of the unusual occurrences.
50. Which supernatural phenomena does Cassius mention in his speech?
He mentions fires, gliding ghosts and other extraordinary occurrences.
51. Which living creatures does Cassius mention as behaving unusually?
He mentions birds and beasts.
52. Which groups of people does Cassius mention as attempting to interpret or predict events?
He mentions old men, fools and children.
53. What does Cassius say about things departing from their natural qualities?
He says that they are changing from their established order and natural characteristics.
54. What does Cassius mean by a “monstrous quality”?
He means an extraordinary and abnormal condition that departs from the natural order.
55. According to Cassius, why has heaven infused these occurrences with spirits?
Heaven has made them instruments of fear and warnings of an extraordinary condition.
56. What does Cassius say these extraordinary happenings may serve as?
They may serve as warnings of some monstrous or dangerous state of affairs.
57. To whom does Cassius compare the dreadful night?
He compares it to a particular powerful man.
58. How does Cassius describe the man through the imagery of the storm?
He describes him as thundering, lightening, opening graves and roaring like the Capitol lion.
59. Which animal does Cassius mention while describing the man?
He mentions the lion in the Capitol.
60. How does Cassius compare the man's personal abilities with his own and Casca's?
He says that the man is no mightier than either of them in personal action.
61. What does Cassius mean by saying that the man has become “prodigious grown”?
He means that the man has acquired an extraordinary and alarming position.
62. What does Cassius mean by describing the man as fearful?
He means that the man's growing power and influence have become frightening.
63. Whom does Casca suspect Cassius is referring to?
Casca suspects that Cassius is referring to Caesar.
64. Does Cassius directly confirm the man's identity?
No, he says, “Let it be who it is.”
65. What does Cassius say about the physical strength of present-day Romans?
He says that they possess the same muscles and physical strength as their ancestors.
66. What does Cassius say has happened to the minds of their ancestors?
He says that their fathers' minds are dead.
67. What does Cassius mean by saying that the Romans are governed with their mothers' spirits?
He suggests that they have become weak and submissive instead of displaying their ancestors' courage.
68. What does Cassius imply through the expression “our yoke and sufferance”?
He implies that the Romans are tolerating subjection and domination.
69. How does Cassius describe the present Romans through the word “womanish”?
He describes them as weak and submissive, expressing his own prejudiced view.
70. What important political information does Casca reveal at the end of the extract?
He reveals that the Senators intend to establish Caesar as king.
71. When do the Senators intend to establish Caesar as king?
They intend to do so the following day.
72. Where is Caesar expected to wear his crown according to Casca?
He is expected to wear it by sea and land, everywhere except Italy.
73. Which country is specifically excluded from the proposed geographical extent of Caesar's kingship?
Italy is specifically excluded.
74. Who reveals the Senators' intention to establish Caesar as king?
Casca reveals it to Cassius.
THREE-MARK QUESTIONS
1. How did Casca describe the terrible condition of nature that night?
Casca describes a night of extraordinary violence. Fierce winds have split mighty oak trees, while the ocean has become swollen and foaming, as though challenging the clouds. He also reports a storm that seemed to drop fire from the sky. These disturbances make the night appear unnatural, threatening and deeply frightening to those who witness them.
2. What unusual incidents involving a common slave and a lion did Casca describe?
Casca reports that a common slave raised his left hand, which seemed to burn like twenty torches but remained unscorched. He also saw a lion near the Capitol. It stared directly at him but did not attack or harm him; instead, it passed by without doing anything to him. Both incidents appeared extraordinary.
3. What did the frightened women claim to have seen, and what unusual incident occurred at the marketplace?
Casca says that about a hundred frightened women gathered in the streets and claimed to have seen men whose bodies were on fire walking up and down. He also reports that an owl was seen in the marketplace at noon, hooting and shrieking, although such behaviour was unnatural at that hour.
4. What two explanations did Casca suggest for the strange events?
Casca offers two possible explanations for the strange events. Either the gods are fighting among themselves and sending destruction upon the world, or human beings have become so arrogant that the gods are preparing to destroy them. Thus, he considers the happenings signs of a serious disturbance rather than ordinary occurrences.
5. Why did Casca regard the extraordinary incidents as significant signs?
Casca believes that the simultaneous extraordinary events are not ordinary natural happenings. He calls them strange and portentous signs, suggesting that they point towards some significant danger or development in the region concerned. He therefore regards them as warnings whose meaning should not be ignored by the people of Rome.
6. How did Cicero react to Casca's description of the unusual events?
Cicero says that the time is strangely disturbed, but people interpret events according to their own understanding, not necessarily according to their actual purpose. He then asks whether Caesar will come to the Capitol tomorrow. His response is cautious, for he does not accept Casca's interpretation as the only possible explanation.
7. What information did Casca give Cicero about Caesar's visit to the Capitol?
Casca tells Cicero that Caesar has asked Antonius to inform him that Caesar will be at the Capitol the following day. This is the message Caesar has sent through Antonius. Cicero responds that the sky is too disturbed for walking and then takes his leave.
8. How did Cassius and Casca differ in their descriptions of the night?
Casca calls the night strange, but Cassius describes it as pleasing to honest men. Their contrasting descriptions reveal different attitudes towards the disturbances. Casca is frightened by the strange events and sees them as alarming, whereas Cassius presents himself as courageous and unafraid of the threatening night.
9. How did Cassius demonstrate his courage during the storm?
Cassius says that he walked through the streets with his bosom bare, exposing himself to the thunderbolt. He also stood directly in the path of the blue lightning. By describing these deliberate actions, he presents himself as fearless and willing to face the dangerous forces of the storm.
10. Why did Casca question Cassius's behaviour during the storm?
Casca questions why Cassius would deliberately expose himself to such danger. He believes that human beings should fear and tremble before the dreadful signs sent by the gods. His response shows that he regards the unusual events as divine warnings and believes that people should not challenge them.
11. How did Cassius criticise Casca's attitude towards the strange events?
Cassius calls Casca dull and criticises his pale, frightened appearance. He says that Casca does not use the sparks of life expected in a Roman. By this, Cassius suggests that Casca possesses natural abilities but fails to display the courage and spirited character expected of a Roman.
12. What examples of unnatural happenings did Cassius mention?
Cassius refers to fires, gliding ghosts, unusual behaviour among birds and beasts, and old men, fools and children attempting to calculate or predict events. He considers these examples of nature and living creatures departing from their usual order, natural characteristics and established behaviour. He sees them as signs of disturbance.
13. What did Cassius believe was the purpose of the extraordinary signs sent by heaven?
Cassius believes that heaven has infused the extraordinary signs with spirits so that they may become instruments of fear and warning. He connects these signs with the possibility of some monstrous condition or development in the state. In his view, they prepare people for an alarming political situation.
14. How did Cassius describe the man whom he compared to the dreadful night?
Cassius describes a man who thunders, lightens, opens graves and roars like the lion in the Capitol. He compares this man with the dreadful night to suggest that the man's presence is equally alarming. Although no mightier than Cassius or Casca in personal action, the man appears prodigious and fearful.
15. Whom did Casca suspect Cassius was referring to, and how did Cassius respond?
Casca asks whether Cassius is referring to Caesar. Cassius does not directly confirm the suggestion; instead, he replies, “Let it be who it is.” His response keeps the reference indirect, although Casca has clearly identified the person he suspects Cassius is describing. Cassius avoids naming Caesar openly.
16. How did Cassius compare contemporary Romans with their ancestors?
Cassius argues that contemporary Romans possess the same physical strength and limbs as their ancestors, but their fathers' minds are dead. He means that, despite their physical abilities, they have lost the courage, determination and independent spirit of their forefathers. This contrast forms the basis of his complaint about their weakness.
17. What did Cassius mean by saying that Romans were governed with their mothers' spirits?
Cassius says that the Romans are governed with their mothers' spirits. This is an insulting comparison through which he portrays them as timid and submissive. He contrasts their supposed weakness with the courage and firmness he associates with their fathers, criticising their failure to display a strong Roman spirit.
18. What did Cassius mean by saying that the Romans' yoke and sufferance showed them to be womanish?
By referring to the Romans' yoke and sufferance, Cassius means that they endure subjection instead of resisting it. He considers their willingness to remain under domination evidence of weakness. In his opinion, their passive acceptance of the yoke makes them appear womanish rather than courageous Romans.
19. What important political information did Casca reveal to Cassius?
Casca reveals that the Senators intend to establish Caesar as king the following day. He adds that Caesar will wear his crown by sea and land, in every place except Italy. Casca presents this as the Senators' intention, not as an accomplished coronation.
20. How does this extract establish the political tension surrounding Caesar's growing power?
The extract brings together strange natural events and political anxiety. Cassius interprets the signs as warnings, criticises the Romans for their submissiveness, and indirectly refers to Caesar as a frightening figure. Casca then reveals the Senators' plan to establish Caesar as king, making the political danger more explicit.
FOUR-MARK QUESTIONS
1. How does Casca's description of the storm establish the frightening atmosphere of the night?
Casca tells Cicero that the night has witnessed several terrifying disturbances. Violent winds have split oak trees, the ocean has risen and foamed towards the clouds, and a storm has seemed to pour fire from the sky. He regards these events as extraordinary because they depart from the ordinary course of nature. His description creates an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty and prepares the audience to associate the disturbed natural world with the political disorder threatening Rome.
2. Give an account of the four extraordinary incidents reported by Casca apart from the storm.
Casca's account includes four striking occurrences beyond the violent storm. A common slave's left hand appears to burn like twenty torches without being scorched. A lion stares at Casca near the Capitol but does not attack him. About a hundred women report seeing fiery men walking through the streets. Finally, an owl hoots and shrieks in the marketplace at noon. Together, these incidents make the night seem full of unnatural and alarming signs.
3. How does Casca explain the possible connection between human conduct and the strange events?
Casca does not claim to know the exact meaning of the strange events. Instead, he offers two possible explanations. The gods may be fighting among themselves and sending destruction upon the world; alternatively, human beings may have become so arrogant that the gods intend to destroy them. Both explanations connect the disturbances with divine displeasure. His uncertainty shows that he regards the events as serious warnings, although their precise meaning remains unclear to him.
4. What does Cicero's response to Casca reveal about his way of interpreting unusual events?
When Cicero hears Casca's account, he does not openly accept Casca's interpretation of the events. He remarks that the time is strangely disturbed, but adds that people interpret things according to their own ideas rather than according to their actual purpose. His response introduces a contrast between observation and interpretation. He then changes the subject by asking whether Caesar will attend the Capitol the next day, showing his interest in the immediate political situation.
5. Explain how the conversation between Cicero and Casca connects the strange night with Caesar's next day's visit.
Casca explains that Caesar has not communicated with Cicero directly about the next day's visit. Caesar has asked Antonius to inform Cicero that he will be present at the Capitol tomorrow. After receiving this information, Cicero comments that the disturbed sky is unsuitable for walking. He then leaves. This brief exchange connects the strange atmosphere of the night with Caesar's expected appearance at the Capitol, an important detail in the developing political situation.
6. How does Cassius's conduct during the storm reflect his attitude towards danger?
Cassius tells Casca that he has deliberately exposed himself to the storm rather than sought shelter from it. He has walked through the streets with his bosom unprotected, offered himself to the thunderbolt, and stood in the path of the blue lightning. These details are intended to demonstrate his fearlessness. His conduct contrasts sharply with Casca's fearful response and helps Cassius present himself as a man who refuses to be intimidated by extraordinary events.
7. Why does Casca consider Cassius's conduct during the storm improper?
Casca regards the storm and the other unusual happenings as dreadful signs sent by the gods. Therefore, he cannot understand why Cassius would willingly place himself in danger. He asks why Cassius tempts heaven and insists that human beings should fear and tremble before such frightening heralds. His response reveals his religious anxiety and cautious temperament. Unlike Cassius, Casca sees no reason to challenge the threatening forces represented by the storm.
8. What does Cassius's criticism of Casca's appearance and character reveal about his expectations of a Roman?
Cassius attacks Casca's lack of courage by calling him dull and drawing attention to his pale, frightened appearance. He says that Casca does not make use of the sparks of life expected in a Roman. The expression suggests that Casca possesses the natural capacity for courage and energy but fails to display it. Cassius uses this criticism to challenge Casca's self-respect and to encourage him to examine the events more boldly.
9. How does Cassius interpret the strange behaviour of natural beings and people during the disturbed night?
Cassius argues that the extraordinary events should be considered together because they show nature departing from its usual order. He mentions fires, gliding ghosts, unusual behaviour among birds and beasts, and people of different ages attempting to predict events. He believes that such changes are not meaningless accidents. In his interpretation, heaven has made these occurrences warnings of a monstrous condition that may affect the state. He regards them as signs of disorder.
10. How does Cassius use the description of a mysterious man to express his political anxiety?
Cassius describes a frightening man through a series of actions associated with the terrible night. This man seems to thunder, produce lightning, open graves and roar like the lion in the Capitol. The description makes him appear almost supernatural and exceptionally dangerous. Cassius then remarks that the man is not physically mightier than himself or Casca in personal action. The contrast suggests that the man's apparent greatness and power should not make ordinary Romans feel helpless.
11. Why does Cassius avoid directly identifying the man when Casca asks whether he means Caesar?
When Casca asks whether Caesar is the man Cassius has described, Cassius avoids giving a direct answer. He says, “Let it be who it is,” instead of openly naming Caesar. This evasive response keeps his accusation indirect. Nevertheless, Casca's question reveals that he understands the likely target of Cassius's description. The exchange exposes the suspicion surrounding Caesar without turning Cassius's indirect words into an explicit statement of accusation. Cassius avoids naming him openly in conversation.
12. What distinction does Cassius make between the physical strength and mental qualities of contemporary Romans?
Cassius distinguishes between physical strength and mental courage when he speaks about the Romans. He admits that contemporary Romans possess strong bodies and limbs like their ancestors. However, he claims that their fathers' minds are dead, meaning that they no longer display the same courage, determination and independent spirit. In Cassius's view, physical strength is insufficient when people lack the will to resist domination and protect their freedom. Their ancestors possessed stronger minds and character.
13. Explain the significance of Cassius's expressions “mothers' spirits” and “womanish” in his criticism of the Romans.
Cassius's references to “mothers' spirits” and to the Romans as “womanish” are deliberately insulting expressions. He uses them to accuse his fellow Romans of timidity and submission. He contrasts their present behaviour with the courage he associates with their fathers. These words reveal Cassius's contempt for people who tolerate domination. They should be understood as his prejudiced rhetoric and not as an objective judgement about women or their qualities. The insult reflects Cassius's own contempt for submission.
14. Explain the political significance of Casca's final revelation about Caesar.
Casca's final revelation gives the conversation a definite political focus. He tells Cassius that the Senators intend to establish Caesar as king the following day. He adds that Caesar will wear his crown by sea and land, everywhere except Italy. The statement reports the Senators' intention; it does not say that Caesar has already been crowned. It explains why Caesar's growing authority is a matter of serious concern in Rome.
15. How does Shakespeare develop an atmosphere of political anxiety through the events and conversation in this extract?
The extract develops its tension by placing disturbing signs beside an important political announcement. Casca first recounts unnatural events and fears divine displeasure. Cassius interprets the disturbances as warnings, challenges Roman submissiveness and indirectly describes a frightening man whom Casca suspects to be Caesar. The final revelation that the Senators intend to make Caesar king gives the conversation political urgency. Thus, the scene links public anxiety, Cassius's hostility and Caesar's proposed elevation. This ending leaves the political conflict clearly in view.
REFERENCE TO CONTEXT
Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.
Extract 1
Cicero: Good even, Casca: Brought you Caesar home?
Why are you breathless? And why stare you so?
Casca: Are not you moved, when all the sway of earth
Shakes like a thing unfirm? O Cicero,
I have seen tempests when the scolding winds
Have rived the knotty oaks, and I have seen
Th’ ambitious ocean swell and rage and foam
To be exalted with the threatening clouds;
But never till tonight, never till now,
Did I go through a tempest dropping fire.
Either there is a civil strife in heaven,
Or else the world, too saucy with the gods,
Incenses them to send destruction.
i. Why does Cicero ask Casca whether he has brought Caesar home? Why does he also question Casca's breathlessness and staring? (3 marks)
Cicero asks Casca whether he has brought Caesar home because he wants to know about Caesar's whereabouts. He notices that Casca is breathless and staring unusually. Therefore, he questions him about his condition. Casca's appearance suggests that he has witnessed or experienced something extraordinary.
ii. What does Casca mean by saying that the earth shakes “like a thing unfirm”? (3 marks)
Casca means that the earth appears unstable and disturbed, as though it cannot remain firm. He is deeply affected by the violent storm and unusual natural disturbances. His expression conveys the frightening atmosphere of the night and suggests that nature itself seems to have lost its normal stability.
iii. How does Casca describe the tempests he had witnessed before that night? (3 marks)
Casca recalls witnessing storms in which the fierce, scolding winds had split strong oak trees. He had also seen the ambitious ocean swell, rage and foam, seemingly trying to rise as high as the threatening clouds. However, he had never before witnessed a storm that appeared to drop fire.
iv. Identify and explain the literary devices in “Th’ ambitious ocean swell and rage and foam / To be exalted with the threatening clouds.” (3 marks)
The expression “ambitious ocean” is an example of personification because the ocean is given the human quality of ambition. “Threatening clouds” also involves personification, as the clouds are presented as capable of threatening. The words “swell,” “rage” and “foam” create vivid imagery of the violent sea.
v. What two possible explanations does Casca offer for the extraordinary happenings? How do these explanations reflect his state of mind? (4 marks)
Casca suggests two possible explanations for the extraordinary happenings. First, there may be a civil conflict among the gods in heaven. Alternatively, the world may have become excessively arrogant towards the gods, provoking them to send destruction. These possibilities reveal Casca's fear and confusion. He cannot understand the unnatural storm and therefore connects it with divine anger and possible destruction.
Extract 2
Cicero: Why, saw you anything more wonderful?
Casca: A common slave (you know him well by sight)
Held up his left hand, which did flame and burn
Like twenty torches joined; and yet his hand,
Not sensible of fire, remained unscorched.
Besides (I ha’ not since put up my sword),
Against the Capitol I met a lion,
Who glazed upon me and went surly by
Without annoying me. And there were drawn
Upon a heap a hundred ghastly women,
Transformed with their fear, who swore they saw
Men all in fire walk up and down the streets.
And yesterday the bird of night did sit
Even at noonday upon the marketplace,
Hooting and shrieking. When these prodigies
Do so conjointly meet, let not men say
“These are their reasons, they are natural,”
For I believe they are portentous things
Unto the climate that they point upon.
i. What extraordinary incident involving a common slave does Casca describe? (3 marks)
Casca describes a common slave holding up his left hand, which appeared to flame and burn like twenty torches joined together. Surprisingly, the slave felt no fire, and his hand remained completely unscorched. This incident appeared unnatural because the hand seemed to be burning without suffering any injury.
ii. Describe Casca's encounter with the lion near the Capitol. Why was the incident unusual? (3 marks)
Casca says that he encountered a lion near the Capitol. The animal stared fixedly at him and passed by in a fierce manner without attacking or harming him. The incident was unusual because a lion's presence in such a place and its strange behaviour appeared threatening and unnatural.
iii. What did the hundred frightened women claim to have witnessed? (3 marks)
Casca reports that about a hundred frightened women gathered together in one place. Terrified by what they had witnessed, they swore that they had seen men whose bodies were entirely on fire walking up and down the streets. Their account added to the frightening atmosphere of the night.
iv. What unusual behaviour of the bird of night did Casca report? (3 marks)
Casca reports that the bird of night, or owl, sat in the marketplace even at midday. Instead of remaining silent during daylight, it was hooting and shrieking. Such behaviour was considered unnatural because owls are associated with night, making its appearance at noon particularly alarming.
v. Why does Casca refuse to regard these incidents as ordinary natural occurrences? What significance does he attach to them? (4 marks)
Casca refuses to consider these incidents ordinary because several extraordinary happenings have occurred together. These include a slave's burning but unscorched hand, a lion near the Capitol, fiery men in the streets and an owl hooting at noon. He calls them prodigies and believes they are portentous signs or warnings concerning the region towards which they point.
Extract 3
Cicero: Indeed, it is a strange-disposed time.
But men may construe things after their fashion,
Clean from the purpose of the things themselves.
Comes Caesar to the Capitol tomorrow?
Casca: He doth, for he did bid Antonius
Send word to you he would be there tomorrow.
Cicero: Good night then, Casca. This disturbed sky
Is not to walk in.
i. Why does Cicero describe the time as “strange-disposed”? (3 marks)
Cicero describes the time as “strange-disposed” because the night is filled with unusual and disturbing natural occurrences. Casca has narrated several extraordinary incidents, including the burning hand, the lion near the Capitol, fiery men in the streets and the owl hooting at noon. These events make the atmosphere appear abnormal and threatening.
ii. What does Cicero mean by saying that people may interpret things according to their own fashion, irrespective of their actual purpose? (3 marks)
Cicero means that people often interpret unusual events according to their personal opinions, beliefs and imagination. Their explanations may be completely different from the actual meaning or purpose of those events. He therefore suggests that Casca's interpretation of the strange happenings should not automatically be accepted as the truth.
iii. What does Cicero ask Casca about Caesar, and what information does Casca provide? (3 marks)
Cicero asks Casca whether Caesar will come to the Capitol the following day. Casca replies that Caesar will indeed be present there. He explains that Caesar has instructed Antonius to send Cicero the message informing him of his intention to visit the Capitol tomorrow.
iv. Why does Cicero decide to end the conversation and leave Casca? (3 marks)
Cicero decides to end the conversation because the sky is disturbed and the weather is unsuitable for walking. He wishes Casca good night and remarks that nobody should walk in such threatening conditions. His departure brings his conversation with Casca to an end.
v. Explain the significance of Cicero's remarks about interpreting unusual events and the disturbed sky in this extract. (4 marks)
Cicero's remarks introduce a cautious approach to interpreting extraordinary events. He observes that people may understand happenings according to their own beliefs rather than their actual purpose. His comment contrasts with Casca's belief that the incidents are supernatural warnings. His final reference to the disturbed sky reinforces the threatening atmosphere of the night and brings their conversation to a close.
Extract 4
Casca: Who ever knew the heavens menace so?
Cassius: Those that have known the Earth so full of faults.
For my part, I have walked about the streets,
Submitting me unto the perilous night,
And thus unbraced, Casca, as you see,
Have bared my bosom to the thunder-stone;
And when the cross blue lightning seemed to open
The breast of heaven, I did present myself
Even in the aim and very flash of it.
(i) Why does Casca wonder whether the heavens have ever threatened mankind in such a manner? (3 marks)
Answer: Casca is deeply disturbed by the extraordinary storm and the frightening events accompanying it. He wonders whether the heavens have ever displayed such threatening signs before. His question reflects his fear and astonishment at the unusual behaviour of nature, which he feels may indicate some serious danger.
(ii) How does Cassius explain the relationship between the threatening heavens and the faults of the earth? (3 marks)
Answer: Cassius replies that people who have witnessed the earth filled with faults and wrongdoing can understand why the heavens threaten it. He suggests that the strange happenings in the sky are connected with human corruption. Thus, he interprets the storm as a warning against the evil and disorder prevailing on earth.
(iii) How does Cassius describe his behaviour during the stormy night? (3 marks)
Answer: Cassius says that he has been walking through the streets during the dangerous night without fastening his clothes. He has deliberately exposed his bare chest to the thunder and lightning. His description shows that he is not frightened by the storm and is willing to face its apparent danger.
(iv) Explain the expressions “thunder-stone” and “the breast of heaven” in the extract. (3 marks)
Answer: “Thunder-stone” refers to the destructive force associated with thunder and lightning. “The breast of heaven” is a metaphorical expression describing the sky as though it were a living being with a chest. Cassius uses these expressions to present the storm as a powerful and threatening force.
(v) What does Cassius's deliberate exposure to thunder and lightning reveal about his character and attitude towards the strange events? (4 marks)
Answer: Cassius appears fearless, bold and determined. Instead of seeking shelter during the dangerous storm, he deliberately walks about with his clothes unfastened and exposes his bare chest to the thunder and lightning. By placing himself directly in the path of the lightning, he demonstrates his defiance of the threatening natural forces. His behaviour also suggests that he is trying to understand or challenge the significance of these unusual events.
Extract 5
Casca: But wherefore did you so much tempt the heavens?
It is the part of men to fear and tremble
When the most mighty gods by tokens send
Such dreadful heralds to astonish us.
Cassius: You are dull, Casca, and those sparks of life
That should be in a Roman you do want,
Or else you use not. You look pale, and gaze,
And put on fear, and cast yourself in wonder,
To see the strange impatience of the heavens.
But if you would consider the true cause
Why all these fires, why all these gliding ghosts,
Why birds and beasts from quality and kind,
Why old men, fools, and children calculate,
Why all these things change from their ordinance,
Their natures, and preformed faculties,
To monstrous quality—why, you shall find
That heaven hath infused them with these spirits
To make them instruments of fear and warning
Unto some monstrous state.
(i) Why does Casca question Cassius about tempting the heavens? What does he believe men should do when the gods send dreadful signs? (3 marks)
Answer: Casca questions Cassius because he has deliberately exposed himself to the thunder and lightning instead of seeking shelter. Casca believes that ordinary human beings should fear and tremble when the mighty gods send dreadful signs to astonish them. He considers such signs warnings that should inspire awe and caution rather than defiance.
(ii) How does Cassius criticise Casca’s attitude towards the strange happenings in the heavens? (3 marks)
Answer: Cassius calls Casca dull and says that he lacks the sparks of life expected in a Roman or fails to use them. He criticises Casca for looking pale, staring in fear and expressing wonder at the unusual behaviour of the heavens. Cassius considers such a frightened reaction unworthy of a courageous Roman.
(iii) What unusual events does Cassius mention while explaining the strange condition of the world? (3 marks)
Answer: Cassius refers to mysterious fires, gliding ghosts and birds and beasts behaving contrary to their natural qualities. He also mentions old men, fools and children calculating or predicting events. These unusual occurrences show that the natural order has been disturbed and that things are changing from their normal behaviour.
(iv) What does Cassius mean when he says that things have changed from their “ordinance, their natures, and preformed faculties”? (3 marks)
Answer: Cassius means that various creatures and human beings are behaving contrary to their established order, natural qualities and usual abilities. Things that normally follow a fixed pattern are displaying strange and unnatural characteristics. He believes that these changes are not ordinary occurrences but signs of an extraordinary and disturbing condition.
(v) According to Cassius, why have the heavens infused these strange events with such spirits, and what do they indicate? (4 marks)
Answer: Cassius believes that the heavens have filled these strange occurrences with fearful significance to make them instruments of fear and warning. They are meant to draw people's attention to an extraordinary and unnatural condition in the state. By describing them as warnings of “some monstrous state,” he suggests that the strange happenings are connected with serious political or social disorder.
Extract 6
Cassius: Now could I, Casca, name to thee a man
Most like this dreadful night,
That thunders, lightens, opens graves, and roars
As doth the lion in the Capitol;
A man no mightier than thyself or me
In personal action, yet prodigious grown,
And fearful, as these strange eruptions are.
Casca: ’Tis Caesar that you mean, is it not, Cassius?
Cassius: Let it be who it is. For Romans now
Have thews and limbs like to their ancestors.
But, woe the while, our fathers’ minds are dead,
And we are governed with our mothers’ spirits.
Our yoke and sufferance show us womanish.
Casca: Indeed, they say the Senators tomorrow
Mean to establish Caesar as a king,
And he shall wear his crown by sea and land
In every place save here in Italy.
(i) How does Cassius describe the man whom he compares to the dreadful night? (3 marks)
Answer: Cassius describes the man as someone whose greatness and frightening influence resemble the dreadful night, which thunders, produces lightning, opens graves and roars like a lion in the Capitol. Although this man is no more powerful than Casca or Cassius in physical ability, he has grown extraordinarily powerful and fear-inspiring.
(ii) Why does Cassius say that the man is no mightier than Casca or himself in personal action, yet has become prodigious and fearful? (3 marks)
Answer: Cassius means that the man does not possess greater natural or physical abilities than ordinary Romans like himself and Casca. However, he has acquired extraordinary power and influence, making him appear almost supernatural and terrifying. Cassius is indirectly referring to Caesar, whose growing authority has made him a threatening figure in Rome.
(iii) How does Casca identify the man whom Cassius is indirectly describing? What is Cassius’s response? (3 marks)
Answer: Casca understands Cassius’s indirect reference and asks whether he means Caesar. Cassius does not openly confirm the name. Instead, he replies, “Let it be who it is.” His response suggests that he does not wish to name the man directly, although his criticism clearly concerns someone who has become excessively powerful and influential.
(iv) What contrast does Cassius draw between the present Romans and their ancestors? (3 marks)
Answer: Cassius observes that present-day Romans possess physical strength and bodily qualities similar to those of their ancestors. However, he believes that they have lost their ancestors’ courageous and independent minds. He complains that their fathers’ spirit is dead and that they are governed by weakness and submissiveness rather than masculine courage.
(v) What does Cassius mean by saying that Romans are governed by their mothers’ spirits? How does Casca’s final statement reveal the political situation in Rome? (4 marks)
Answer: Cassius uses “their mothers’ spirits” to suggest that the Romans have become timid, weak and submissive, unlike their courageous ancestors. Their acceptance of a yoke of servitude makes them appear unmanly. Casca’s final statement reveals that the Senators intend to establish Caesar as king the following day. Caesar is expected to wear his crown throughout the world, except in Italy.