JULIUS CAESAR, ACT 1, SCENE 1 Evergreen book, Page: 20 to 24

The play Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare is generally believed to have been written in 1599.

Most scholars agree that it was composed during the same period when Shakespeare was writing Henry V and around the time the Globe Theatre was built.
As for publication, the play was first published in 1623 in the First Folio, a collected edition of Shakespeare’s plays compiled by his fellow actors John Heminges and Henry Condell.
So, in brief:
• Expected date of writing: 1599
• First publication: 1623 (First Folio)

Julius Caesar, Act 1, Scene 1
Evergreen book, Page: 20 to 24
Flavius: Hence! Home, you idle creatures get you home:
.................. Flavius: Who else would soar above the view of men
And keep us all in servile fearfulness.
[Exit.]

Glossary:

Tribunes – Roman officers of the people – रोमन जनप्रतिनिधि अधिकारी
Commoners – ordinary citizens – सामान्य लोग
Idle – lazy – आलसी
Holiday – day of celebration/rest – अवकाश का दिन
Mechanical – working-class/labouring – श्रमिक वर्ग का
Labouring day – working day – काम करने का दिन
Profession – occupation – पेशा
Trade – occupation/work – व्यवसाय
Carpenter – woodworker – बढ़ई
Leather apron – leather garment worn for work – चमड़े का एप्रन
Rule – measuring tool – मापने का पैमाना
Apparel – clothes – वस्त्र
Cobbler – shoe repairer – मोची
Fine workman – skilled worker – कुशल कारीगर
Directly – straight/clearly – सीधे
Conscience – moral sense – अंतरात्मा
Mender – repairer – मरम्मत करने वाला
Soles – bottom of shoes – जूते के तलवे
Knave – rogue/fool – दुष्ट/मूर्ख
Naughty – wicked – शरारती/दुष्ट
Beseech – beg/request earnestly – विनती करना
Be not out with me – do not be angry with me – मुझसे नाराज़ मत होइए
Saucy – rude/impudent – उद्दंड
Awl – sharp tool for piercing leather – चमड़ा छेदने का औज़ार
Meddle – interfere – दखल देना
Tradesman – shopkeeper/worker – व्यापारी
Surgeon – healer – शल्य चिकित्सक
Recover – restore/repair – ठीक करना
Proper men – fine/good men – अच्छे लोग
Neat’s leather – cow’s leather – गाय का चमड़ा
Handiwork – workmanship – कारीगरी
Wherefore – why – क्यों
Wear out – make worn by use – घिस देना
Make holiday – celebrate – उत्सव मनाना
Triumph – victory celebration – विजय उत्सव
Rejoice – celebrate with joy – आनंद मनाना
Conquest – victory – विजय
Tributaries – conquered rulers paying tribute – कर देने वाले शासक
Grace – honour – सम्मान देना
Captive bonds – chains of prisoners – बंदी की जंजीरें
Chariot – royal cart – रथ
Senseless – without sense – निर्बुद्धि
Cruel – hard-hearted – निर्दयी
Battlements – protective walls of a fort – किले की प्राचीर
Chimney-tops – tops of chimneys – चिमनी की छत
Livelong day – whole day – पूरा दिन
Patient expectation – calm waiting – धैर्यपूर्ण प्रतीक्षा
Universal shout – loud cry by all – सबकी जोरदार पुकार
Tiber – river of Rome – रोम की टाइबर नदी
Replication – echo/repetition – प्रतिध्वनि
Concave shores – hollow banks – गूंजती नदी के किनारे
Attire – dress – पोशाक
Cull out – select – चुनना
Strew – scatter – बिखेरना
Ingratitude – ungratefulness – कृतघ्नता
Intermit – stop – रोकना
Plague – punishment/disaster – विपत्ति
Assemble – gather – इकट्ठा करना
Sort – kind/group – वर्ग
Channel – river bed – नदी का मार्ग
Exalted – high – ऊँचा
Basest mettle – lowest spirit/courage – निम्न साहस
Tongue-tied – speechless – मौन
Guiltiness – sense of guilt – अपराधबोध
Capitol – government building in Rome – रोम का राजभवन
Disrobe – remove clothes/ornaments – वस्त्र उतारना
Images – statues – मूर्तियाँ
Decked – decorated – सजाया हुआ
Ceremonies – ornaments/celebrations – समारोह की सजावट
Feast – festival – पर्व
Lupercal – Roman festival of Lupercalia – लुपरकल पर्व
Trophies – signs of victory – विजय चिह्न
Vulgar – common crowd – सामान्य जनता
Perceive – notice – देखना/समझना
Thick – in large numbers – बड़ी संख्या में
Growing feathers – increasing power – बढ़ती शक्ति
Ordinary pitch – normal height – साधारण स्तर
Soar – fly high – ऊँचा उड़ना
Servile – slave-like – दासवत
Fearfulness – fear – भय

Paraphrase 

The play opens on a street in Rome. The Roman tribunes, Flavius and Marullus, come across a group of common citizens who have left their work to celebrate the victory of Julius Caesar.

Flavius angrily orders the people to go back to their homes. He scolds them for being lazy and asks why they are treating the day like a holiday. Since they are working men, they should be at their jobs instead of wandering through the streets. He asks one of them what his profession is.

The first citizen replies that he is a carpenter. Marullus then asks him why he is not wearing the tools and clothes of his trade. Instead, he is dressed in his finest clothes. Marullus then turns to another man and asks him what his occupation is.

The second citizen replies that he is a cobbler, but he jokingly says that he is only a "fine workman." Marullus is irritated and demands a direct answer. The cobbler cleverly replies that he is a "mender of bad soles." By saying "soles," he is referring to the worn-out bottoms of shoes, but the word also sounds like "souls," making it a humorous pun.

Marullus becomes annoyed and calls the cobbler a rascal. He demands to know his real trade. The cobbler politely asks Marullus not to be angry. He jokes that if Marullus is "out" or upset, he can "mend" him. Again, he is making a joke by comparing people to shoes that need repairing.

Marullus angrily asks what he means by such a remark. The cobbler replies that he can "cobble" him, meaning he can repair him just as he repairs shoes.

Flavius then asks whether he is really a cobbler. The cobbler explains that he earns his living with an awl, a sharp tool used for making holes in leather. He says he does not interfere in other craftsmen's work or in women's affairs. He only works with his awl. He humorously describes himself as a doctor for old shoes because whenever shoes are badly damaged, he restores them to good condition. Many respectable people have walked comfortably because of his skilled workmanship.

Flavius then asks why the cobbler is not in his workshop and why he has brought so many people into the streets.

The cobbler replies with another joke. He says that by making people walk around today, they will wear out their shoes faster, which means they will need more repairs and he will get more business. Then he gives the real reason: everyone has taken a holiday to watch Caesar and celebrate his victorious return to Rome.

Marullus is shocked and asks why they should celebrate Caesar. He questions what great victory Caesar has won that deserves such honour. He asks whether Caesar has returned with foreign kings and prisoners following behind his chariot, as victorious Roman generals usually did.

He then angrily insults the people, calling them blocks, stones, and creatures even more foolish than lifeless objects. He reminds them that they once deeply admired Pompey the Great, Caesar's former rival. He recalls how they used to climb onto walls, towers, rooftops, and windows, even carrying their children in their arms. They would wait patiently all day just to catch a glimpse of Pompey passing through the streets.

Whenever Pompey's chariot appeared, the citizens shouted so loudly that the sound echoed across the banks of the Tiber River, making it seem as if the river itself trembled.

Marullus then asks how these same people can now wear their best clothes, declare a holiday, and scatter flowers before Caesar, the very man who defeated Pompey's supporters. He condemns them for forgetting their former hero so quickly and calls them ungrateful.

He orders them to leave immediately, return to their homes, kneel before the gods, and pray that the gods will stop the punishment that their ingratitude deserves.

Flavius also tells the citizens to gather all the poor people of Rome and go to the banks of the Tiber River. There they should weep until their tears fill the river, symbolising their deep repentance for their disloyalty.

Ashamed by the tribunes' harsh words, the commoners silently leave.

After the crowd has gone, Flavius notices that the people have left without saying a word because they realise they have done wrong. He tells Marullus to go towards the Capitol while he takes another route. They plan to remove all the decorations and garlands from Caesar's statues if they find them decorated for the celebration.

Marullus hesitates because it is the festival of Lupercal, a day of public celebration, and he wonders whether it is proper to remove the decorations.

Flavius replies that the festival does not matter. He insists that Caesar's statues must not remain decorated with trophies and honours. He says he will drive the common people away from the streets while Marullus should do the same wherever he finds crowds.

Finally, Flavius explains the reason for their actions through a powerful metaphor. He says that Caesar is like a bird whose wings are growing stronger because of the people's excessive praise. If these "feathers" are plucked away by removing the public honours, Caesar will fly only at an ordinary height. Otherwise, he will rise so high above everyone else that he will become too powerful and make all the people of Rome live in fear like slaves. After saying this, Flavius leaves the stage.

जूलियस सीज़र –  हिन्दी अनुवाद 

नाटक का आरम्भ रोम की एक सड़क से होता है। रोम के दो ट्रिब्यून, फ्लेवियस और मरुलस, कुछ सामान्य नागरिकों को सड़कों पर घूमते हुए देखते हैं। ये लोग अपना काम छोड़कर जूलियस सीज़र की विजय का उत्सव मनाने निकले हैं।

फ्लेवियस क्रोधित होकर लोगों को डाँटता है और कहता है कि वे तुरंत अपने घर लौट जाएँ। वह उन्हें आलसी कहता है और पूछता है कि क्या आज कोई छुट्टी है। वह कहता है कि वे मेहनत-मज़दूरी करने वाले लोग हैं, इसलिए उन्हें काम के दिन सड़कों पर नहीं घूमना चाहिए। वह एक व्यक्ति से उसका पेशा पूछता है।

पहला नागरिक उत्तर देता है कि वह एक बढ़ई (कारपेंटर) है। मरुलस उससे पूछता है कि उसने अपने पेशे के कपड़े और औज़ार क्यों नहीं पहन रखे हैं। आज वह अपने सबसे अच्छे कपड़े पहनकर क्यों घूम रहा है? इसके बाद मरुलस दूसरे व्यक्ति की ओर मुड़कर उसका पेशा पूछता है।

दूसरा नागरिक उत्तर देता है कि वह एक मोची (कॉबलर) है, लेकिन वह मज़ाकिया ढंग से कहता है कि वह केवल एक “अच्छा कारीगर” है। मरुलस उसकी बात से चिढ़ जाता है और सीधे उत्तर देने को कहता है। तब मोची कहता है कि वह “खराब तलों (soles) की मरम्मत करने वाला” है। यहाँ वह sole (जूते का तला) और soul (आत्मा) शब्दों की समान ध्वनि का प्रयोग करके शब्दों का खेल (pun) करता है।

मरुलस गुस्से में उसे बदमाश कहता है और उसका असली पेशा बताने को कहता है। मोची विनम्रता से कहता है कि वे उससे नाराज़ न हों। फिर वह मज़ाक में कहता है कि यदि मरुलस “बिगड़ गए हैं” (out of temper), तो वह उन्हें भी “ठीक” (mend) कर सकता है। यहाँ भी वह मनुष्य की तुलना जूते से करके हास्य उत्पन्न करता है।

मरुलस क्रोधित होकर पूछता है कि उसका क्या मतलब है। मोची उत्तर देता है कि जैसे वह जूतों की मरम्मत करता है, वैसे ही वह उन्हें भी “सुधार” सकता है।

फ्लेवियस उससे पूछता है कि क्या वह सचमुच मोची है। मोची बताता है कि वह अपनी जीविका आल (Awl) नामक नुकीले औज़ार से कमाता है, जिससे चमड़े में छेद किए जाते हैं। वह कहता है कि वह न तो दूसरे कारीगरों के काम में दखल देता है और न ही स्त्रियों के मामलों में। उसका पूरा काम केवल अपने औज़ार से है। वह हँसते हुए स्वयं को पुराने जूतों का डॉक्टर बताता है, क्योंकि जब जूते बहुत खराब हो जाते हैं, तो वह उन्हें फिर से ठीक कर देता है। वह गर्व से कहता है कि बहुत-से सम्मानित लोग उसके बनाए और सुधारे हुए जूते पहनकर चलते हैं।

फ्लेवियस उससे पूछता है कि वह आज अपनी दुकान पर क्यों नहीं है और इतने लोगों को सड़कों पर क्यों घुमा रहा है।

मोची फिर मज़ाक करता है। वह कहता है कि जितना अधिक लोग आज चलेंगे, उनके जूते उतने ही जल्दी घिसेंगे और उसे उतना ही अधिक काम मिलेगा। फिर वह असली कारण बताता है कि आज सब लोगों ने छुट्टी इसलिए मनाई है ताकि वे सीज़र को देखें और उसकी विजय का उत्सव मना सकें।

यह सुनकर मरुलस क्रोधित हो जाता है। वह पूछता है कि आखिर सीज़र की खुशी क्यों मनाई जा रही है। वह पूछता है कि उसने ऐसी कौन-सी महान विजय प्राप्त की है कि उसका इतना सम्मान किया जाए। क्या वह किसी विदेशी राजा या बंदी शत्रुओं को पकड़कर रोम लाया है, जो उसके रथ के पीछे-पीछे चल रहे हों?

इसके बाद वह नागरिकों को डाँटते हुए उन्हें पत्थर, लकड़ी के गट्ठर और निर्जीव वस्तुओं से भी अधिक मूर्ख कहता है। वह उन्हें याद दिलाता है कि कभी वे महान सेनापति पॉम्पी के सबसे बड़े प्रशंसक थे। वे अपने छोटे-छोटे बच्चों को गोद में लेकर दीवारों, मीनारों, खिड़कियों और छतों पर चढ़ जाते थे और पूरे दिन धैर्यपूर्वक बैठकर पॉम्पी के रथ के आने की प्रतीक्षा करते थे।

जब पॉम्पी का रथ दिखाई देता था, तब वे इतने ज़ोर से जय-जयकार करते थे कि उनकी आवाज़ टाइबर नदी के किनारों से टकराकर गूँज उठती थी और ऐसा लगता था मानो पूरी नदी उनकी आवाज़ से काँप रही हो।

मरुलस फिर पूछता है कि वही लोग आज अपने सबसे अच्छे कपड़े पहनकर छुट्टी क्यों मना रहे हैं और उसी सीज़र के रास्ते में फूल क्यों बिछा रहे हैं जिसने पॉम्पी के समर्थकों को पराजित किया है। वह उन्हें कृतघ्न कहता है क्योंकि उन्होंने अपने पुराने नायक को बहुत जल्दी भुला दिया है।

वह आदेश देता है कि वे तुरंत अपने-अपने घर जाएँ, घुटनों के बल बैठकर देवताओं से प्रार्थना करें कि वे उनकी इस कृतघ्नता के कारण मिलने वाले दंड को रोक दें।

फ्लेवियस भी लोगों से कहता है कि वे रोम के सभी गरीब लोगों को इकट्ठा करें और उन्हें टाइबर नदी के किनारे ले जाएँ। वहाँ वे तब तक रोते रहें, जब तक उनके आँसू नदी के जल में मिलकर उनके पश्चाताप और शर्म का प्रमाण न बन जाएँ।

दोनों ट्रिब्यूनों की कठोर बातों को सुनकर नागरिक लज्जित हो जाते हैं। वे बिना कुछ बोले चुपचाप वहाँ से चले जाते हैं।

भीड़ के जाने के बाद फ्लेवियस कहता है कि लोग अपराधबोध के कारण बिना कुछ कहे चले गए हैं। वह मरुलस से कहता है कि वह कैपिटल की ओर जाए, जबकि वह दूसरी दिशा में जाएगा। यदि कहीं भी सीज़र की मूर्तियाँ फूलों और मालाओं से सजाई गई हों, तो वे उन सभी सजावटों को हटा देंगे।

मरुलस संकोच से कहता है कि आज लुपरकाल का पर्व है और इस दिन मूर्तियों की सजावट हटाना उचित होगा या नहीं।

फ्लेवियस उत्तर देता है कि इससे कोई फर्क नहीं पड़ता। वह कहता है कि सीज़र की मूर्तियों पर सम्मान और विजय के प्रतीक किसी भी हालत में नहीं रहने चाहिए। वह स्वयं लोगों को सड़कों से हटाएगा और मरुलस से भी वही करने को कहता है जहाँ कहीं भी भीड़ दिखाई दे।

अंत में फ्लेवियस एक सुंदर रूपक (Metaphor) का प्रयोग करता है। वह कहता है कि सीज़र एक ऐसे पक्षी की तरह है जिसके पंख लोगों की अत्यधिक प्रशंसा के कारण लगातार मज़बूत होते जा रहे हैं। यदि उसके इन “पंखों” अर्थात् जनता द्वारा दिए जा रहे सम्मान को हटा दिया जाए, तो वह सामान्य ऊँचाई तक ही उड़ सकेगा। लेकिन यदि ऐसा नहीं किया गया, तो वह इतना शक्तिशाली बन जाएगा कि सभी लोगों से बहुत ऊपर उठ जाएगा और पूरे रोम को अपने अधीन करके उन्हें भय और दासता में जीवन बिताने के लिए मजबूर कर देगा। यह कहकर फ्लेवियस वहाँ से चला जाता है।

Poetic Devices used in the above text:

1.     “You blocks, you stones, you worse than senseless things!” → Metaphor → The common people are compared to “blocks” and “stones,” suggesting they are foolish, unthinking, and emotionally hard. It shows Marullus’s anger and disappointment.

2.     “O you hard hearts, you cruel men of Rome,” → Metaphor → “Hard hearts” suggests lack of gratitude and sympathy. Their emotional coldness is criticized.

3.     “That Tiber trembled underneath her banks,” → Personification → The river Tiber is given the human quality of trembling. It emphasizes how loud the people’s cheers were.

4.     “To hear the replication of your sounds / Made in her concave shores?” → Personification → The river is described as if it can hear. Nature is shown reacting to human action.

5.     “That comes in triumph over Pompey’s blood?” → Metonymy → “Pompey’s blood” represents Pompey’s death and defeat. Blood stands for life and lineage.

6.     “Pray to the gods to intermit the plague / That needs must light on this ingratitude.” → Metaphor → “Plague” symbolizes divine punishment. Ingratitude is treated as a sin deserving disaster.

7.     “See whether their basest mettle be not moved;” → Pun (Wordplay) → “Mettle” (spirit) sounds like “metal.” Shakespeare plays with sound to suggest their weak courage might be stirred.

8.     “They vanish tongue-tied in their guiltiness.” → Alliteration → Repetition of the ‘t’ sound in “tongue-tied” creates rhythm and highlights their shame.

9.     “Disrobe the images, / If you do find them decked with ceremonies.” → Symbolism → The decorated statues symbolize Caesar’s growing popularity and power.

10.  “These growing feathers plucked from Caesar’s wing” → Extended Metaphor → Caesar is compared to a bird; feathers represent his increasing power and support.

11.  “Will make him fly an ordinary pitch,” → Metaphor → “Fly” means rise in power; “ordinary pitch” means normal height. Without support, Caesar will not rise too high.

12.  “Who else would soar above the view of men” → Imagery + Metaphor → A visual image of a bird flying high symbolizes Caesar’s ambition.

13.  “And keep us all in servile fearfulness.” → Alliteration → The repetition of the ‘f’ sound emphasizes the feeling of slavery and fear.

14.  “I am, indeed, sir, a surgeon to old shoes; / when they are in great danger I recover them.” → Pun → The Cobbler humorously compares himself to a surgeon, creating comic relief.

15.  “A mender of bad soles.” → Pun → “Soles” (shoes) sounds like “souls,” showing Shakespeare’s clever wordplay……………

The line-by-line paraphrase (Original line → English paraphrase → Hindi paraphrase) from Julius Caesar, Act 1, Scene 1 (given extract only):
“Flavius: Hence! Home, you idle creatures get you home:” → Go away! You lazy people, return to your homes at once. → चले जाओ! तुम आलसी लोगों, तुरंत अपने घर लौट जाओ।
“Is this a holiday? What, know you not,” → Is today a holiday? Don’t you know → क्या आज कोई अवकाश है? क्या तुम नहीं जानते
“Being mechanical, you ought not walk” → that as working men you should not roam about → कि श्रमिक होने के कारण तुम्हें यूँ घूमना नहीं चाहिए
“Upon a labouring day without the sign” → on a working day without wearing → काम के दिन बिना पहने
“Of your profession? Speak, what trade art thou?” → the signs of your trade? Tell me, what is your occupation? → अपने पेशे का चिन्ह? बताओ, तुम्हारा व्यवसाय क्या है?
“Why, sir, a carpenter.” → Sir, I am a carpenter. → महोदय, मैं एक बढ़ई हूँ।
“Where is thy leather apron and thy rule?” → Where are your leather apron and measuring tool? → तुम्हारा चमड़े का एप्रन और नापने का औज़ार कहाँ है?
“What dost thou with thy best apparel on?” → Why are you wearing your best clothes? → तुम अपने अच्छे कपड़े क्यों पहने हो?
“You, sir, what trade are you?” → And you, what is your occupation? → और तुम, तुम्हारा व्यवसाय क्या है?
“Truly, sir… I am but… a cobbler.” → Honestly, sir, I am only a cobbler. → सच कहूँ तो, महोदय, मैं केवल एक मोची हूँ।
“But what trade art thou? Answer me directly.” → What exactly is your trade? Answer clearly. → तुम्हारा सही व्यवसाय क्या है? स्पष्ट उत्तर दो।
“A trade, sir… a mender of bad soles.” → Sir, I repair worn-out shoe soles. → महोदय, मैं फटे जूतों के तलवे ठीक करता हूँ।
“What trade, thou knave?” → What trade, you rogue? → क्या काम करते हो, ओ दुष्ट?
“Nay, I beseech you, sir, be not out with me:” → Please, sir, don’t be angry with me. → कृपया, महोदय, मुझसे नाराज़ मत होइए।
“yet, if you be out, sir, I can mend you.” → But if your shoes are worn out, I can repair them. → पर यदि आपके जूते फट गए हों, तो मैं उन्हें ठीक कर सकता हूँ।
“What meanest thou by that? Mend me?” → What do you mean? Repair me? → तुम क्या कहना चाहते हो? मुझे ठीक करोगे?
“Why, sir, cobble you.” → Sir, I mean I can repair your shoes. → महोदय, मेरा अर्थ है कि मैं आपके जूते ठीक कर दूँगा।
“Truly, sir, all that I live by is with the awl.” → Sir, I earn my living by using my awl tool. → महोदय, मैं अपने ‘आल’ औज़ार से ही जीविका चलाता हूँ।
“I meddle with no tradesman’s matters…” → I do not interfere in others’ work. → मैं किसी और के काम में दखल नहीं देता।
“I am… a surgeon to old shoes;” → I am like a doctor for old shoes. → मैं पुराने जूतों का डॉक्टर हूँ।
“when they are in great danger I recover them.” → When they are badly damaged, I fix them. → जब वे बहुत खराब हो जाते हैं, तो मैं उन्हें ठीक कर देता हूँ।
“But wherefore art not in thy shop today?” → Why are you not in your shop today? → आज तुम अपनी दुकान में क्यों नहीं हो?
“Why dost thou lead these men about the streets?” → Why are you bringing these people into the streets? → तुम इन लोगों को सड़कों पर क्यों घुमा रहे हो?
“Truly, sir, to wear out their shoes…” → To make their shoes wear out so I get more work. → ताकि उनके जूते घिस जाएँ और मुझे अधिक काम मिले।
“we make holiday, to see Caesar…” → We are celebrating to see Caesar → हम सीज़र को देखने के लिए छुट्टी मना रहे हैं
“and to rejoice in his triumph.” → and to celebrate his victory. → और उसकी विजय का उत्सव मनाने के लिए।
“Wherefore rejoice? What conquest brings he home?” → Why celebrate? What victory has he achieved? → क्यों खुश हो रहे हो? उसने कौन-सी विजय पाई है?
“What tributaries follow him to Rome,” → Which conquered rulers are following him → कौन-से पराजित शासक उसके साथ आ रहे हैं
“To grace in captive bonds his chariot-wheels?” → to decorate his chariot as prisoners? → जो उसके रथ को बंदियों के रूप में शोभित करें?
“You blocks, you stones…” → You foolish and unfeeling people! → तुम मूर्ख और पत्थर-दिल लोग!
“Knew you not Pompey?” → Did you not know Pompey? → क्या तुम पोम्पेई को नहीं जानते थे?
“Have you climb’d up to walls…” → Did you not climb walls and towers → क्या तुम दीवारों और मीनारों पर नहीं चढ़ते थे
“To see great Pompey pass…” → to watch Pompey pass through the streets? → पोम्पेई को गुजरते देखने के लिए?
“And when you saw his chariot…” → When you saw his chariot appear → जब तुमने उसका रथ देखा
“Have you not made an universal shout,” → did you not cheer loudly together? → क्या तुमने जोर से जयकार नहीं की थी?
“That Tiber trembled…” → so loudly that the river Tiber seemed to shake → इतनी जोर से कि टाइबर नदी काँपती लगी
“And do you now put on your best attire?” → And now you wear fine clothes? → और अब तुम अच्छे वस्त्र पहनते हो?
“That comes in triumph over Pompey’s blood?” → for the man who defeated Pompey’s family? → उस व्यक्ति के लिए जिसने पोम्पेई के वंश को हराया?
“Be gone!” → Go away! → चले जाओ!
“Run to your houses…” → Go home and kneel down → अपने घर जाओ और घुटनों के बल बैठो
“Pray to the gods…” → Pray to the gods to stop punishment → देवताओं से दंड रोकने की प्रार्थना करो
“Go, go, good countrymen…” → Go home, good citizens → जाओ, अच्छे नागरिकों
“Draw them to Tiber banks…” → Bring everyone to the river banks and weep → सबको नदी किनारे ले जाकर रोओ
“See whether their basest mettle be not moved;” → Let us see if their low spirit is stirred → देखें क्या उनका निम्न साहस जागता है
“They vanish tongue-tied in their guiltiness.” → They go away silently, feeling guilty. → वे अपराधबोध से चुपचाप चले जाते हैं।
“Disrobe the images…” → Remove the decorations from the statues → मूर्तियों की सजावट उतार दो
“It is the feast of Lupercal.” → Today is the Lupercal festival. → आज लुपरकल का पर्व है।
“Let no images be hung with Caesar’s trophies.” → Do not allow statues to be decorated with Caesar’s honors. → सीज़र के सम्मान में मूर्तियाँ न सजने दो।
“These growing feathers plucked from Caesar’s wing” → If we remove these signs of honor from Caesar → यदि हम सीज़र के सम्मान हटा दें
“Will make him fly an ordinary pitch,” → he will remain at an ordinary level → तो वह साधारण स्तर पर रहेगा
“Who else would soar above the view of men” → otherwise he would rise above all others → नहीं तो वह सबके ऊपर उठ जाएगा

“And keep us all in servile fearfulness.” → and make us live like slaves in fear. → और हमें भय में दासों की तरह रखेगा। 

Multiple-Choice Questions {Set-1}

1.     Who are the two tribunes in this scene?
A. Brutus and Cassius
B. Flavius and Marullus
C. Caesar and Antony
D. Pompey and Cicero
Ans. B. Flavius and Marullus

2.     Why are the commoners wandering in the streets?
A. To protest against Caesar
B. To attend a meeting
C. To celebrate Caesar’s triumph
D. To welcome Pompey
Ans. C. To celebrate Caesar’s triumph

3.     What is the profession of the First Citizen?
A. Cobbler
B. Blacksmith
C. Carpenter
D. Tailor
Ans. C. Carpenter

4.     What is the profession of the Second Citizen?
A. Baker
B. Cobbler
C. Mason
D. Soldier
Ans. B. Cobbler

5.     Why does Marullus scold the Carpenter?
A. For insulting Caesar
B. For not wearing his work clothes
C. For fighting in the street
D. For lying about his trade
Ans. B. For not wearing his work clothes

6.     The Cobbler calls himself a “mender of bad soles.” What is the pun here?
A. Soles and sales
B. Soles and souls
C. Soles and soil
D. Soles and seals
Ans. B. Soles and souls

7.     Why does the Cobbler say he leads men through the streets?
A. To guide them safely
B. To show them the market
C. To wear out their shoes and get more work
D. To protest against Caesar
Ans. C. To wear out their shoes and get more work

8.     Whose victory are the people celebrating?
A. Pompey’s
B. Brutus’s
C. Cassius’s
D. Caesar’s
Ans. D. Caesar’s

9.     Marullus reminds the people of their earlier support for whom?
A. Antony
B. Pompey
C. Octavius
D. Lepidus
Ans. B. Pompey

10.  What natural element is personified as trembling?
A. The wind
B. The earth
C. The Tiber River
D. The sky
Ans. C. The Tiber River

11.  What does Marullus call the people in anger?
A. Brave Romans
B. Loyal citizens
C. Blocks and stones
D. Wise men
Ans. C. Blocks and stones

12.  What does Marullus fear may fall upon Rome due to ingratitude?
A. War
B. Plague
C. Famine
D. Flood
Ans. B. Plague

13.  What does Flavius ask the commoners to do after scolding them?
A. Join Caesar’s procession
B. Go home and pray
C. Attack Pompey’s supporters
D. Stay and listen
Ans. B. Go home and pray

14.  Where does Flavius tell them to gather and weep?
A. At the Capitol
B. At Caesar’s house
C. At the Tiber banks
D. In the marketplace
Ans. C. At the Tiber banks

15.  What festival is mentioned in the scene?
A. Saturnalia
B. Lupercal
C. Floralia
D. Bacchanalia
Ans. B. Lupercal

16.  What do Flavius and Marullus plan to remove from Caesar’s statues?
A. Weapons
B. Flags
C. Trophies and decorations
D. Coins
Ans. C. Trophies and decorations

17.  Why do the tribunes want to remove the decorations?
A. To insult Caesar
B. To sell them
C. To prevent Caesar from becoming too powerful
D. To prepare for a festival
Ans. C. To prevent Caesar from becoming too powerful

18.  Caesar is compared to which creature in Flavius’s metaphor?
A. Lion
B. Eagle
C. Horse
D. Serpent
Ans. B. Eagle

19.  What will happen if Caesar’s “feathers” are plucked?
A. He will fall immediately
B. He will remain at an ordinary level
C. He will become king
D. He will leave Rome
Ans. B. He will remain at an ordinary level

20.  How do the commoners react after being scolded?
A. They argue loudly
B. They attack the tribunes
C. They laugh
D. They leave silently in guilt
Ans. D. They leave silently in guilt

Multiple-Choice Questions {Set-2}

1.     The anger of Flavius and Marullus mainly reveals their
A. jealousy of Caesar’s popularity
B. loyalty to Pompey and the Roman Republic
C. fear of the common people
D. desire for personal power
Ans. B. loyalty to Pompey and the Roman Republic

2.     The behaviour of the common people in this scene shows that they are
A. politically wise
B. firm in their loyalty
C. easily influenced and fickle
D. rebellious by nature
Ans. C. easily influenced and fickle

3.     The Cobbler’s use of puns mainly serves to
A. insult the tribunes seriously
B. create comic relief in a tense scene
C. show his deep political wisdom
D. praise Caesar openly
Ans. B. create comic relief in a tense scene

4.     When Marullus says, “You blocks, you stones,” he is criticizing the people’s
A. poverty
B. appearance
C. lack of intelligence and feeling
D. profession
Ans. C. lack of intelligence and feeling

5.     The reference to the River Tiber “trembling” emphasizes
A. the beauty of nature
B. the greatness of Pompey
C. the loudness of the people’s earlier cheers
D. the danger of flood
Ans. C. the loudness of the people’s earlier cheers

6.     The tribunes’ decision to remove decorations from Caesar’s statues indicates
A. open rebellion against Caesar
B. a subtle attempt to limit Caesar’s rising power
C. their respect for tradition
D. their fear of punishment
Ans. B. a subtle attempt to limit Caesar’s rising power

7.     The metaphor of “plucking feathers from Caesar’s wing” suggests that
A. Caesar is weak
B. Caesar is already defeated
C. Caesar’s power depends on public support
D. Caesar is afraid of enemies
Ans. C. Caesar’s power depends on public support

8.     The mood of the scene shifts from humorous to serious when
A. the Carpenter speaks
B. the Cobbler jokes
C. Marullus recalls Pompey’s glory
D. the crowd laughs
Ans. C. Marullus recalls Pompey’s glory

9.     The tribunes represent which political idea?
A. Absolute monarchy
B. Military dictatorship
C. Republican opposition to dictatorship
D. Foreign invasion
Ans. C. Republican opposition to dictatorship

10.  The commoners’ silence at the end of the scene suggests
A. agreement with Caesar
B. guilt and shame
C. anger and revenge
D. confusion only
Ans. B. guilt and shame

11.  This opening scene mainly prepares the audience for
A. Caesar’s immediate coronation
B. the coming political conflict in Rome
C. a romantic subplot
D. a foreign war
Ans. B. the coming political conflict in Rome

12.  The Cobbler’s wit also shows that
A. common people lack intelligence
B. humour can challenge authority indirectly
C. tribunes are foolish
D. Caesar dislikes jokes
Ans. B. humour can challenge authority indirectly

13.  The repeated reference to Pompey highlights the theme of
A. loyalty versus betrayal
B. friendship
C. love
D. wealth
Ans. A. loyalty versus betrayal

14.  The phrase “servile fearfulness” suggests that the tribunes fear
A. foreign enemies
B. economic crisis
C. loss of freedom under Caesar
D. religious conflict
Ans. C. loss of freedom under Caesar

15.  The main dramatic purpose of this scene is to
A. introduce the setting and central political tension
B. present Caesar’s speech
C. show a battle scene
D. introduce Portia
Ans. A. introduce the setting and central political tension

Multiple-Choice Questions {Set-3}

1.     Flavius is angry with the commoners because they are
A. plotting against Rome
B. celebrating on a working day
C. fighting among themselves
D. refusing to pay taxes
Ans. B. celebrating on a working day

2.     The Carpenter is questioned mainly about
A. his political views
B. his loyalty to Caesar
C. his tools and work dress
D. his family background
Ans. C. his tools and work dress

3.     The Cobbler describes himself as a “surgeon to old shoes” to show that he
A. is a real doctor
B. repairs worn-out shoes
C. works in a hospital
D. treats injured soldiers
Ans. B. repairs worn-out shoes

4.     The commoners have gathered to
A. mourn Pompey’s death
B. protest against the tribunes
C. see Caesar’s triumph
D. attend the Lupercal race
Ans. C. see Caesar’s triumph

5.     Marullus criticizes the crowd for forgetting
A. Caesar’s kindness
B. Pompey’s earlier victories
C. Antony’s leadership
D. Rome’s laws
Ans. B. Pompey’s earlier victories

6.     The expression “You blocks, you stones” suggests that the people are
A. brave
B. strong
C. insensitive and foolish
D. hardworking
Ans. C. insensitive and foolish

7.     The trembling of the Tiber River symbolizes
A. a coming storm
B. fear of invasion
C. the loud cheering of the people
D. Caesar’s anger
Ans. C. the loud cheering of the people

8.     The tribunes fear that Caesar may
A. leave Rome
B. become too powerful
C. lose the battle
D. punish the workers
Ans. B. become too powerful

9.     The decorations on Caesar’s statues represent
A. religious customs only
B. Caesar’s military weapons
C. public support and honour
D. gifts from foreign rulers
Ans. C. public support and honour

10.  The festival mentioned in the scene is
A. Saturnalia
B. Lupercal
C. Floralia
D. Vulcanalia
Ans. B. Lupercal

11.  The commoners leave the scene feeling
A. proud
B. angry
C. guilty
D. victorious
Ans. C. guilty

12.  The metaphor of “plucking feathers” implies
A. injuring Caesar physically
B. weakening Caesar’s power
C. insulting Caesar publicly
D. removing Caesar from Rome
Ans. B. weakening Caesar’s power

13.  The tone of Marullus’s speech is mainly
A. humorous
B. romantic
C. angry and reproachful
D. joyful
Ans. C. angry and reproachful

14.  The purpose of this opening scene is to
A. show a battle
B. introduce political tension
C. celebrate Caesar’s coronation
D. present a love story
Ans. B. introduce political tension

“Who said to whom?”

1.     “Hence! home, you idle creatures, get you home.” Who said this to whom?
Ans. Flavius said this to the Roman commoners who were roaming in the streets instead of working.

2.     “What trade art thou?” Who said this to whom?
Ans. Flavius said this to the Cobbler to question his profession.

3.     “Why dost thou lead these men about the streets?” Who said this to whom?
Ans. Marullus said this to the Carpenter, asking why he had brought the workers out during working hours.

4.     “Truly, sir, all that I live by is with the awl.” Who said this to whom?
Ans. The Cobbler said this to Marullus while humorously describing his trade.

5.     “You blocks, you stones, you worse than senseless things!” Who said this to whom?
Ans. Marullus said this angrily to the common people for celebrating Caesar.

6.     “Knew you not Pompey?” Who said this to whom?
Ans. Marullus said this to the commoners to remind them of their former support for Pompey.

7.     “And do you now put on your best attire?” Who said this to whom?
Ans. Marullus said this to the Roman citizens, criticizing them for dressing up to celebrate Caesar.

8.     “Go, go, good countrymen, and, for this fault, assemble all the poor men of your sort.” Who said this to whom?
Ans. Marullus said this to the commoners, instructing them to gather and pray for forgiveness.

9.     “See whether their basest metal be not mov’d.” Who said this to whom?
Ans. Flavius said this to Marullus, suggesting they observe whether the people feel shame and regret.

10.  “These growing feathers pluck’d from Caesar’s wing will make him fly an ordinary pitch.” Who said this to whom?
Ans. Flavius said this to Marullus, explaining that removing the decorations would limit Caesar’s rising power.

11.  “Else would he soar above the view of men and keep us all in servile fearfulness.” Who said this to whom?
Ans. Flavius said this to Marullus, expressing his fear that Caesar might become dangerously powerful.

One-Mark Questions

1. Who are the two tribunes in this scene?
Ans. The two tribunes in this scene are Flavius and Marullus.
2. Why are the commoners roaming in the streets?
Ans. The commoners are roaming in the streets to see Caesar and rejoice in his triumph.
3. What is the profession of the First Citizen?
Ans. The First Citizen is a carpenter by profession.
4. What is the profession of the Second Citizen?
Ans. The Second Citizen is a cobbler by profession.
5. Why does Marullus scold the Carpenter?
Ans. Marullus scolds the Carpenter because he is wearing his best clothes instead of the dress and tools of his profession on a working day.
6. What humorous reply does the Cobbler give about his trade?
Ans. The Cobbler humorously says that he is "a mender of bad soles," making a pun on the words "soles" and "souls."
7. What does the Cobbler compare himself to?
Ans. The Cobbler compares himself to a surgeon who repairs old shoes.
8. Whose victory are the people celebrating?
Ans. The people are celebrating Caesar's victory.
9. Whom does Marullus remind the people about?
Ans. Marullus reminds the people about Pompey and his earlier victories.
10. Which river is mentioned in the scene?
Ans. The River Tiber is mentioned in the scene.
11. What does Marullus call the people in anger?
Ans. Marullus calls the people "blocks, stones, and worse than senseless things."
12. What does Marullus fear may fall upon Rome?
Ans. Marullus fears that a plague may fall upon Rome because of the people's ingratitude.
13. What does Flavius ask the commoners to do?
Ans. Flavius asks the commoners to go home, gather the poor people, and pray to the gods.
14. What festival is mentioned in the scene?
Ans. The festival of Lupercal is mentioned in the scene.
15. What do the tribunes decide to remove from Caesar's statues?
Ans. The tribunes decide to remove the decorations and trophies from Caesar's statues.
16. On what kind of day do the tribunes find the commoners in the streets?
Ans. The tribunes find the commoners in the streets on a working day.
17. What should mechanical workers wear on a working day according to Flavius?
Ans. According to Flavius, mechanical workers should wear the signs or tools of their profession on a working day.
18. Why does Marullus question the Cobbler strictly?
Ans. Marullus questions the Cobbler strictly because he keeps joking instead of answering directly.
19. What tool does the Cobbler mention as his means of livelihood?
Ans. The Cobbler mentions the awl as the tool by which he earns his livelihood.
20. Why does the Cobbler say he leads men through the streets?
Ans. The Cobbler says he leads men through the streets so that their shoes may wear out and he may get more work.
21. What does Marullus accuse the people of being?
Ans. Marullus accuses the people of being ungrateful and fickle.
22. Where did the people once gather to see Pompey?
Ans. The people once gathered on walls, battlements, towers, windows, and even chimney-tops to see Pompey pass through the streets.
23. How long did the people wait to see Pompey?
Ans. The people waited the whole day with patient expectation to see Pompey.
24. What effect did the people's cheers have on the Tiber River?
Ans. The people's cheers were so loud that the Tiber seemed to tremble beneath its banks.
25. Over whose blood does Marullus say Caesar now triumphs?
Ans. Marullus says that Caesar now triumphs over Pompey's blood, meaning Pompey's defeat and the fall of his cause.
26. What does Marullus order the people to do after rebuking them?
Ans. Marullus orders the people to go home, kneel before the gods, and pray that the plague of their ingratitude may be stopped.
27. What does Flavius tell the people to do at the banks of the Tiber?
Ans. Flavius tells the people to gather at the banks of the Tiber and weep in repentance.
28. How do the commoners leave the scene after being scolded?
Ans. The commoners leave the scene silently, feeling guilty.
29. Where does Flavius tell Marullus to go after the crowd disperses?
Ans. Flavius tells Marullus to go towards the Capitol.
30. What do the tribunes plan to do to Caesar's images?
Ans. The tribunes plan to remove the decorations from Caesar's images (statues).
31. Why does Marullus hesitate to remove the decorations?
Ans. Marullus hesitates because it is the feast of Lupercal.
32. What does Flavius compare Caesar's growing power to?
Ans. Flavius compares Caesar's growing power to the feathers growing on a bird's wings.
33. What will happen if Caesar's feathers are plucked according to Flavius?
Ans. According to Flavius, if Caesar's feathers are plucked, he will fly only at an ordinary height.
34. What does Flavius fear Caesar may do if allowed to rise too high?
Ans. Flavius fears that Caesar may soar above all other men and keep the Romans in servile fear.
35. What quality of the Roman people is mainly highlighted in this scene?
Ans. The scene mainly highlights the fickleness and ingratitude of the Roman people.
36. What does the Cobbler say he lives by?
Ans. The Cobbler says that he earns his living by using an awl.
37. What does the word "mechanical" mean in this scene?
Ans. In this scene, "mechanical" means craftsmen or manual workers.
38. Why are the commoners wearing their best clothes?
Ans. The commoners are wearing their best clothes to celebrate Caesar's triumph.
39. Why does Marullus call the citizens "blocks" and "stones"?
Ans. Marullus calls them "blocks" and "stones" because they have forgotten Pompey and are ungratefully celebrating Caesar.
40. What does Flavius want to prevent by removing Caesar's decorations?
Ans. Flavius wants to prevent Caesar from becoming too powerful and ambitious.
41. Where do Flavius and Marullus decide to go after the crowd leaves?
Ans. Flavius takes one route while Marullus goes towards the Capitol to remove the decorations from Caesar's statues.
42. What does Flavius fear if Caesar becomes too powerful?
Ans. Flavius fears that Caesar will rise above everyone else and make the Roman people live in slavery and fear.

Two-Mark Questions

1. Why do Flavius and Marullus rebuke the commoners at the beginning of the scene?
Ans. Flavius and Marullus rebuke the commoners because they have left their work and are roaming the streets on a working day. They are also angry because the people are celebrating Caesar's triumph instead of remaining loyal to Pompey.
2. How does the Cobbler use humour while answering the tribunes?
Ans. The Cobbler uses humour and puns by calling himself "a mender of bad soles," playing upon the words "soles" and "souls." He also calls himself "a surgeon to old shoes," making his replies witty and entertaining.
3. Why are the commoners celebrating Caesar's victory?
Ans. The commoners are celebrating because Caesar has returned to Rome in triumph. They have taken a holiday to see him and rejoice in his victory.
4. How does Marullus remind the people of their past loyalty to Pompey?
Ans. Marullus reminds the people that they once climbed walls, towers, windows, and even chimney-tops to catch a glimpse of Pompey. They waited patiently all day and welcomed him with loud cheers.
5. What effect did the people's earlier celebration of Pompey have on the River Tiber?
Ans. Marullus says that the people's loud cheers echoed so powerfully that the River Tiber seemed to tremble beneath its banks. This shows the great enthusiasm they once had for Pompey.
6. Why does Marullus call the people "blocks" and "stones"?
Ans. Marullus calls the people "blocks" and "stones" because they have forgotten Pompey's services and are now celebrating Caesar. He criticizes them for their lack of feeling, intelligence, and gratitude.
7. What punishment does Marullus fear for Rome due to the people's ingratitude?
Ans. Marullus fears that the gods may send a plague or divine punishment upon Rome because the people have shown great ingratitude by abandoning their former loyalty to Pompey.
8. What instructions does Flavius give to the commoners after scolding them?
Ans. Flavius tells the commoners to return to their homes, gather the poor citizens, and go to the banks of the River Tiber. There they should weep in repentance for their wrongdoing.
9. How do the commoners react to the tribunes' harsh words?
Ans. The commoners silently obey the tribunes and leave the streets. Their silence shows that they feel ashamed and guilty.
10. What plan do Flavius and Marullus make after the crowd disperses?
Ans. After the crowd disperses, Flavius and Marullus decide to remove the decorations and ceremonial ornaments from Caesar's statues. They hope this will reduce his growing popularity.
11. Why does Marullus hesitate to remove the decorations from Caesar's images?
Ans. Marullus hesitates because it is the feast of Lupercal. He is uncertain whether it is proper to remove the decorations during a religious festival.
12. What does Flavius mean by "plucking feathers from Caesar's wing"?
Ans. Flavius uses the metaphor of plucking a bird's feathers to mean reducing Caesar's popularity and power. By removing the public honours, he hopes to prevent Caesar from becoming too powerful.
13. What fear does Flavius express about Caesar's ambition?
Ans. Flavius fears that if Caesar continues to gain power and popularity, he will rise above all other Romans. As a result, the people will be forced to live in fear like slaves.
14. What theme is introduced through the conflict between the tribunes and the commoners?
Ans. The conflict introduces the themes of political unrest, public fickleness, and the fear of Caesar's growing power. It also highlights the conflict between republican ideals and personal ambition.
15. How does this opening scene prepare the audience for the rest of the play?
Ans. This opening scene prepares the audience by showing the divided loyalties of the Roman people and the growing opposition to Caesar. It foreshadows the political conflict and conspiracy that drive the rest of the play.
16. Why does Flavius ask the Carpenter where his leather apron and rule are?
Ans. Flavius expects the Carpenter to be dressed for work because it is a working day. Seeing him in his best clothes instead of wearing the dress and carrying the tools of his trade makes Flavius angry.
17. Explain the Cobbler's reply, "if you be out, sir, I can mend you."
Ans. The Cobbler cleverly jokes that if Marullus is "out of temper" or angry, he can "mend" him just as he repairs old shoes. This double meaning creates humour through a pun.
18. Why are Flavius and Marullus opposed to Caesar's growing popularity?
Ans. They fear that Caesar's increasing popularity will make him too ambitious and powerful. They believe that he may become a tyrant and destroy the freedom of the Roman people.
19. How is the fickleness of the Roman people shown in this scene?
Ans. The Roman people had once admired Pompey and welcomed him with great enthusiasm. Now they have forgotten him and are celebrating Caesar, showing how quickly they change their loyalties.
20. Explain the significance of the feast of Lupercal in this scene.
Ans. The feast of Lupercal provides the occasion for Caesar's public celebration, and his statues are decorated for the festival. Although Marullus hesitates to remove the decorations because of the religious occasion, Flavius insists that Caesar should not receive excessive public honour.

Three-Mark Questions

1. Why do Flavius and Marullus become angry with the commoners at the beginning of the scene?
Ans. Flavius and Marullus become angry because the commoners are wandering through the streets on a working day instead of attending to their trades. As mechanical workers, they should be wearing the signs and tools of their profession and carrying out their work honestly. The tribunes are also displeased because the people are celebrating Caesar's triumph instead of remembering Pompey, whom they had once admired.
2. Describe the character of the Cobbler as revealed in this scene.
Ans. The Cobbler is witty, humorous, and clever in his speech. He uses puns such as "a mender of bad soles" and calls himself "a surgeon to old shoes," providing comic relief in an otherwise serious scene. Though he is a simple tradesman, he displays intelligence through his wordplay. He also avoids direct confrontation with the tribunes, showing practical wisdom and caution.
3. How does Marullus criticize the fickleness of the Roman people?
Ans. Marullus criticizes the Roman people for being ungrateful and inconsistent in their loyalties. He reminds them that they once admired Pompey, climbed walls and towers to see him, and welcomed him with loud cheers. Now they have forgotten him and are celebrating Caesar's triumph instead. Their sudden change of loyalty shows that they are easily influenced and fickle.
4. Explain the significance of the reference to the River Tiber in the scene.
Ans. The reference to the River Tiber emphasizes the intensity of the people's former admiration for Pompey. Marullus says that their cheers were so loud that the River Tiber seemed to tremble beneath its banks. This personification highlights the strength of their earlier enthusiasm. By contrasting it with their present behaviour, Shakespeare shows how quickly public opinion can change.
5. Why does Marullus order the people to pray to the gods?
Ans. Marullus believes that the people's celebration of Caesar shows ingratitude towards Pompey. He considers such ingratitude a serious moral offence that may bring divine punishment upon Rome. Therefore, he orders the people to go home, kneel before the gods, and pray that the plague deserved by their ingratitude may be prevented.
6. How do the commoners react after being rebuked by the tribunes?
Ans. After being sharply rebuked, the commoners become silent and ashamed. They do not argue with the tribunes or defend themselves. Instead, they quietly leave the streets, showing their guilt and submission to authority.
7. What plan do Flavius and Marullus make after the crowd leaves?
Ans. After the crowd disperses, Flavius and Marullus decide to remove the decorations and ceremonial ornaments from Caesar's statues. They believe that such public honours increase Caesar's popularity and ambition. By removing these decorations, they hope to reduce his growing influence and protect the Roman Republic from tyranny.
8. Explain the metaphor of "plucking feathers from Caesar's wing."
Ans. Flavius compares Caesar to a bird whose wings allow it to fly higher than others. The "feathers" symbolize the honours, praise, and public support that Caesar receives. By plucking these feathers, the tribunes hope to reduce his popularity and prevent him from becoming too powerful. The metaphor reflects their fear of Caesar's growing ambition.
9. What political tension is revealed in this opening scene?
Ans. The opening scene reveals the growing conflict between the supporters of the Roman Republic and Caesar's increasing popularity. While the common people celebrate Caesar's triumph, the tribunes strongly oppose his rise to power. They fear that his growing influence may lead to tyranny. This political tension becomes the central conflict of the play.
10. How does Shakespeare combine humour and seriousness in this scene?
Ans. Shakespeare skilfully combines humour and seriousness in this scene. The Cobbler's witty replies, clever puns, and playful language create comic relief at the beginning. This light-hearted mood is followed by Marullus's passionate speech condemning the people's ingratitude and warning against Caesar's growing power. The sudden change in tone prepares the audience for the serious political drama that follows.
11. Describe the conversation between Marullus and the Cobbler.
Ans. Marullus questions the Cobbler about his profession because he is wandering through the streets on a working day. Instead of answering directly, the Cobbler responds with witty jokes and clever puns, calling himself "a mender of bad soles" and "a surgeon to old shoes." Although Marullus becomes irritated by these humorous replies, the conversation provides comic relief and highlights the Cobbler's intelligence.
12. Why do Flavius and Marullus oppose Caesar's growing popularity?
Ans. Flavius and Marullus fear that Caesar's increasing popularity will make him too ambitious and powerful. They believe that excessive public honours may encourage him to rise above all other Romans and become a tyrant. Therefore, they decide to remove the decorations from his statues in order to reduce his influence over the people.
13. How is the theme of public opinion presented in this scene?
Ans. Shakespeare presents public opinion as unstable and easily influenced. The Roman people had once admired Pompey and celebrated his victories with great enthusiasm, but they have now forgotten him and are celebrating Caesar instead. This sudden change of loyalty shows how quickly public opinion can shift according to circumstances.
14. What qualities of Flavius and Marullus are revealed in this scene?
Ans. Flavius and Marullus are shown to be patriotic, courageous, and loyal to the Roman Republic. They are strict in enforcing discipline and openly criticize the people's ingratitude towards Pompey. Their decision to remove the decorations from Caesar's statues shows their determination to prevent Caesar from becoming too powerful and to safeguard Rome's freedom.

Four-Mark Questions

1. How does this scene establish the social division in Rome?
Ans. The opening scene clearly highlights the gap between the ruling class and the ordinary citizens. Flavius and Marullus represent discipline, authority, and loyalty to the Roman Republic, whereas the commoners are shown as ordinary people who are easily influenced by popular leaders. Their decision to celebrate Caesar's triumph without considering its political impact angers the tribunes. Through this contrast, Shakespeare presents a society divided by differences in power, responsibility, and political understanding.
2. Discuss the importance of public opinion in this scene.
Ans. Public opinion is shown to be a powerful force in this scene. Caesar's growing popularity depends largely on the support and admiration of the common people. Flavius and Marullus fear that these public celebrations and honours will strengthen Caesar's position and encourage his ambition. The citizens' sudden shift in loyalty from Pompey to Caesar also shows that public opinion is unstable and can easily change.
3. How does Shakespeare portray authority through Flavius and Marullus?
Ans. Shakespeare presents Flavius and Marullus as firm and responsible leaders who believe in maintaining order. They openly criticize the commoners for neglecting their duties and for forgetting Pompey's services to Rome. Their decision to remove the decorations from Caesar's statues reflects their determination to prevent any one man from becoming too powerful. Through their actions, they represent loyalty to the ideals of the Roman Republic.
4. Examine the theme of ingratitude in this extract.
Ans. The theme of ingratitude is brought out through Marullus's speech to the commoners. He reminds them that they once admired Pompey and celebrated his victories with great enthusiasm. Now they have forgotten him and are celebrating Caesar's triumph instead. Marullus believes that such forgetfulness is morally wrong and warns that it may bring divine punishment upon Rome.
5. How does this scene foreshadow future events in the play?
Ans. This opening scene prepares the audience for the political conflict that follows in the play. The tribunes' fear of Caesar's growing popularity suggests that many Romans are uneasy about his rising power. Flavius's image of Caesar soaring above other men hints at the danger of unchecked ambition. These ideas foreshadow the conspiracy against Caesar, his assassination, and the civil unrest that follows.
6. What does the behaviour of the commoners reveal about mob mentality?
Ans. The commoners behave more like a crowd than independent thinkers. They quickly transfer their admiration from Pompey to Caesar simply because Caesar is now successful. When the tribunes scold them, they quietly disperse without offering any defence. Shakespeare uses their behaviour to show that public opinion is easily influenced and that crowds often follow popular leaders without careful thought.
7. Comment on the dramatic effectiveness of the opening scene.
Ans. The opening scene immediately captures the audience's attention by combining humour with political conflict. The witty conversation between the Cobbler and the tribunes provides comic relief, while Marullus's passionate speech creates a serious atmosphere. The scene introduces important characters, themes, and tensions that shape the rest of the play. As a result, it serves as an effective and engaging introduction.
8. Analyse the symbolism of Caesar's statues in this scene.
Ans. Caesar's statues symbolize his growing influence and popularity among the Roman people. The decorations placed upon them represent the public honour and admiration he enjoys. By planning to remove these ornaments, Flavius and Marullus hope to reduce Caesar's prestige and limit his power. The statues therefore become symbols of political authority and ambition.
9. How does language reflect power relations in this scene?
Ans. Shakespeare uses language to show the difference in status between the tribunes and the commoners. Flavius and Marullus speak in a commanding and critical manner, using harsh expressions to rebuke the crowd. The commoners, on the other hand, respond respectfully, while the Cobbler uses humour to avoid offending the tribunes. This contrast in speech reflects the unequal balance of power in Roman society.
10. Discuss the significance of the festival of Lupercal in this extract.
Ans. The feast of Lupercal provides the setting for the public celebration of Caesar's triumph. It explains why the citizens are gathered in the streets and why Caesar's statues are decorated. Although the day is festive, the tribunes place the safety of the Republic above the celebration and decide to remove the decorations. Thus, the festival highlights the contrast between public celebration and political anxiety.
11. How does this scene introduce the theme of ambition?
Ans. Although Caesar does not appear in this extract, his growing ambition is suggested through the fears expressed by Flavius and Marullus. They believe that the honours given to him will encourage him to rise above other Romans. Flavius's metaphor of a bird soaring into the sky symbolizes the danger of excessive ambition. This idea becomes one of the central themes of the play.
12. Why is this scene important for understanding the political background of the play?
Ans. This scene introduces the political atmosphere of Rome after Caesar's recent triumph. It shows that the Roman people are divided in their opinions about Caesar. While the commoners admire and celebrate him, the tribunes worry that his increasing popularity may threaten the freedom of the Republic. This conflict forms the foundation for the major events that unfold later in the play.

“How are Marullus and Flavius portrayed in this scene? Do you agree with their actions? Give reasons.”

Ans. In Act 1, Scene 1 of Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare, Marullus and Flavius are portrayed as strong defenders of the Roman Republic. They are deeply concerned about Caesar’s rising popularity and fear that he may become a dictator. Marullus appears emotional and harsh, openly scolding the commoners for their fickleness, while Flavius is calmer and more strategic, planning to remove decorations from Caesar’s statues to reduce his public support. I partly agree with their roles because their concern for democracy is justified; however, their insulting tone toward the common people may not be entirely appropriate. Their actions show patriotism, but their contempt for the masses reveals political elitism.

Reference to Context

Extract 1

Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:

[Enter two tribunes Flavius, Marullus, and several Commoners, including a Carpenter and a Cobbler.]

Flavius: Hence! Home, you idle creatures get you home:

Is this a holiday? What, know you not,

Being mechanical, you ought not walk

Upon a labouring day without the sign

Of your profession? Speak, what trade art thou?

First Citizen (Carpenter): Why, sir, a carpenter.

Marullus: Where is thy leather apron and thy rule?

What dost thou with thy best apparel on? —

[To Cobbler] You, sir, what trade are you?

Second Citizen (Cobbler): Truly, sir,

in respect of a fine workman, 

I am but, as you would say, a cobbler.

Marullus: But what trade art thou? Answer me directly.

Second Citizen (Cobbler): A trade, sir, that, I hope,

I may use with a safe conscience; which is, indeed, 

sir, a mender of bad soles.

(i) Why does Flavius become angry with the commoners? What does he expect them to do on a working day? [3]
Ans. Flavius becomes angry because the commoners are roaming through the streets instead of working. He reminds them that it is a normal working day, not a holiday. He expects them to attend to their occupations and wear the dress or carry the tools that identify their profession.
(ii) Describe the conversation between Marullus and the Cobbler. How does the Cobbler make the exchange humorous? [3]
Ans. Marullus repeatedly asks the Cobbler about his profession, expecting a straightforward answer. Instead, the Cobbler replies with clever jokes and puns, calling himself "a mender of bad soles" and "a surgeon to old shoes." His witty wordplay creates humour, although it irritates Marullus.
(iii) What do you learn about the characters of Flavius, Marullus, and the Cobbler from this extract? [3]
Ans. Flavius appears strict, disciplined, and concerned about civic duty. Marullus is impatient, outspoken, and quick-tempered, especially when the Cobbler refuses to answer directly. The Cobbler is intelligent, cheerful, and humorous, using wit and wordplay even while being questioned by the tribunes.
(iv) What is the dramatic significance of this opening scene? [4]
Ans. The opening scene introduces the political atmosphere of Rome and the growing tension surrounding Caesar's popularity. It reveals the contrast between the common people, who admire Caesar, and the tribunes, who fear his increasing influence. Shakespeare also combines humour with political seriousness through the Cobbler's witty conversation and the tribunes' stern speeches. This scene establishes important themes such as public opinion, political conflict, and ambition, preparing the audience for the events that follow in the play.

 

Extract 2

Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:

Marullus: What trade, thou knave? 

Thou naughty knave, what trade?

Second Citizen Cobbler: Nay, I beseech you, sir, be not out with me: 

yet, if you be out, sir, I can mend you.

Marullus: What meanest thou by that? Mend me, thou saucy fellow!

Second Citizen (Cobbler): Why, sir, cobble you.

Flavius: Thou art a cobbler, art thou?

Second Citizen (Cobbler): Truly, sir, all that I live by is with the awl.  

I meddle with no tradesman's matters, nor women’s matters, but

with awl. I am, indeed, sir, a surgeon to old shoes; 

when they are in great danger I recover them. 

As proper men as ever trod upon neat's leather 

have gone upon my handiwork.

Flavius: But wherefore art not in thy shop today?

Why dost thou lead these men about the streets?

Second Citizen (Cobbler): Truly, sir, to wear out their shoes, 

to get myself into more work. But, indeed, sir, 

we make holiday, to see Caesar and to rejoice in his triumph.

(i) How does the Cobbler use humour while answering Marullus and Flavius? [3]
Ans. The Cobbler answers the tribunes with clever jokes and puns instead of giving direct replies. He says he is "a mender of bad soles," playing on the words "soles" and "souls." He also calls himself "a surgeon to old shoes" and jokes that he can "mend" Marullus, making the conversation light-hearted despite the tribunes' anger.
(ii) Why is the Cobbler absent from his shop? What reason does he give for leading the people through the streets? [3]
Ans. The Cobbler is absent from his shop because he has taken a holiday to see Caesar and celebrate his triumph. He humorously says that he wants the people to wear out their shoes so that he will get more work repairing them. His reply reflects both his wit and his practical outlook.
(iii) What does this extract reveal about the character of the Cobbler? [3]
Ans. The Cobbler is shown to be witty, cheerful, and intelligent. He enjoys using puns and clever wordplay even while speaking to important officials. Although he respects the tribunes, he answers their questions with humour rather than fear, making him one of the most entertaining characters in the opening scene.
(iv) How does Shakespeare use humour in this extract, and what purpose does it serve? [4]
Ans. Shakespeare creates humour through the Cobbler's witty replies, clever puns, and double meanings. Expressions such as "mender of bad soles," "surgeon to old shoes," and "I can mend you" make the conversation amusing while displaying the Cobbler's quick wit. This comic exchange provides relief before the play moves into serious political discussion. It also makes the characters more memorable and creates an effective contrast between the cheerful Cobbler and the stern tribunes.

 

Extract 3

Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:

Marullus: Wherefore rejoice? What conquest brings he home?

What tributaries follow him to Rome,

To grace in captive bonds his chariot-wheels?

You blocks, you stones, you worse than senseless things!

O you hard hearts, you cruel men of Rome,

Knew you not Pompey? Many a time and oft

Have you climb'd up to walls and battlements,

To towers and windows, yea, to chimney-tops,

Your infants in your arms, and there have sat

The livelong day, with patient expectation,

To see great Pompey pass the streets of Rome.

And when you saw his chariot but appear,

Have you not made an universal shout,

That Tiber trembled underneath her banks,

To hear the replication of your sounds

Made in her concave shores?

And do you now put on your best attire?

And do you now cull out a holiday?

And do you now strew flowers in his way

That comes in triumph over Pompey's blood?

Be gone!

Run to your houses, fall upon your knees,

Pray to the gods to intermit the plague

That needs must light on this ingratitude.

(i) Why does Marullus criticize the commoners in this extract? How does he remind them of Pompey? [3]
Ans. Marullus criticizes the commoners because they are celebrating Caesar's triumph after forgetting Pompey. He reminds them that they once admired Pompey greatly, climbing walls, towers, windows, and even chimney-tops to catch a glimpse of him. They had waited patiently for hours and welcomed him with loud cheers whenever he passed through the streets of Rome.
(ii) Explain the significance of the references to the River Tiber and Pompey in this extract. [3]
Ans. Marullus recalls that the people's cheers for Pompey were so loud that the River Tiber seemed to tremble beneath its banks. This vivid image emphasizes their former admiration for Pompey. By comparing their past devotion with their present celebration of Caesar, Shakespeare highlights the fickle and ungrateful nature of the Roman crowd.
(iii) Why does Marullus ask the people to pray to the gods? What does this reveal about his character? [3]
Ans. Marullus believes that the people's ingratitude towards Pompey is a serious moral offence that may bring divine punishment upon Rome. Therefore, he orders them to return home, kneel before the gods, and pray that the threatened plague may be prevented. His words reveal that he is patriotic, morally upright, and deeply concerned about the welfare of Rome.
(iv) What themes are highlighted in this extract? How are they developed through Marullus's speech? [4]
Ans. This extract highlights the themes of ingratitude, public fickleness, political loyalty, and divine justice. Through his emotional speech, Marullus condemns the Roman people for forgetting Pompey's achievements and transferring their loyalty to Caesar. His vivid descriptions of the citizens' former admiration for Pompey sharply contrast with their present behaviour. Shakespeare uses this speech to show how unstable public opinion can be and to introduce the political tensions that drive the rest of the play.

 

Extract 4

Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:

Flavius: Go, go, good countrymen, and for this fault,

Assemble all the poor men of your sort.

Draw them to Tiber banks, and weep your tears

Into the channel, till the lowest stream

Do kiss the most exalted shores of all.

[Exit all the Commoners.]

See whether their basest mettle be not moved;

They vanish tongue-tied in their guiltiness.

Go you down that way towards the Capitol;

This way will I. Disrobe the images,

If you do find them decked with ceremonies.

(i) What instructions does Flavius give to the commoners after rebuking them? Why does he give these instructions? [3]
Ans. Flavius orders the commoners to return to their homes, gather the poor citizens, and go to the banks of the River Tiber. He tells them to weep in repentance for their ingratitude towards Pompey. He believes that sincere repentance may save Rome from the divine punishment that their actions deserve.
(ii) What does Flavius mean by saying, "They vanish tongue-tied in their guiltiness"? [3]
Ans. Flavius means that the commoners leave without speaking because they feel ashamed and guilty after being severely scolded. Their silence suggests that they realize they have acted wrongly. It also shows the authority that Flavius and Marullus exercise over the people.
(iii) What plan do Flavius and Marullus make after the commoners leave? Why do they decide to do this? [3]
Ans. After the commoners leave, Flavius and Marullus decide to remove the decorations from Caesar's statues wherever they find them. They believe that these public honours increase Caesar's popularity and encourage his ambition. By removing the decorations, they hope to limit his growing influence.
(iv) How does this extract develop the themes of repentance, political responsibility, and opposition to Caesar? [4]
Ans. This extract emphasizes the need for repentance by showing Flavius urging the commoners to seek forgiveness for their ingratitude. It also presents Flavius and Marullus as responsible leaders who place the welfare of Rome above popular celebrations. Their decision to remove the decorations from Caesar's statues reveals their determination to oppose his growing power. Through these actions, Shakespeare develops the themes of civic duty, political responsibility, and resistance to excessive ambition.

 

Extract 5

Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:

Marullus: May we do so?

You know it is the feast of Lupercal.

Flavius: It is no matter.  Let no images

Be hung with Caesar's trophies. I'll about,

And drive away the vulgar from the streets.

So do you too, where you perceive them thick.

These growing feathers plucked from Caesar's wing

Will make him fly an ordinary pitch,

Who else would soar above the view of men

And keep us all in servile fearfulness.

[Exit.]

(i) Why does Marullus hesitate to remove the decorations from Caesar's statues? How does Flavius respond? [3]
Ans. Marullus hesitates because it is the feast of Lupercal, an important Roman festival, and he is uncertain whether it is proper to remove the decorations on such an occasion. Flavius dismisses this concern, insisting that the festival is unimportant compared with the danger of Caesar's growing popularity. He orders that all decorations from Caesar's statues should be removed.
(ii) Explain the metaphor of "These growing feathers plucked from Caesar's wing." [3]
Ans. Flavius compares Caesar to a bird whose wings allow it to soar high into the sky. The "growing feathers" symbolize the honours, praise, and public support that Caesar is receiving. By removing these "feathers," the tribunes hope to reduce his popularity and prevent him from becoming too powerful.
(iii) What fear does Flavius express in the closing lines of the scene? [3]
Ans. Flavius fears that if Caesar's popularity continues to grow, he will rise above all other Romans and become too powerful. He worries that Caesar may reduce the Roman people to a life of fear and servitude. His words reveal his strong commitment to protecting the freedom of the Roman Republic.
(iv) How do the closing lines of this scene prepare the audience for the central conflict of the play? [4]
Ans. The closing lines introduce the central political conflict of the play by revealing the tribunes' fear of Caesar's increasing power and ambition. Flavius believes that public honours will encourage Caesar to place himself above other Romans and threaten their liberty. His determination to remove the decorations from Caesar's statues reflects the growing opposition to Caesar's rise. These ideas foreshadow the conspiracy against Caesar, his assassination, and the struggle for power that follows.