JULIUS CAESAR, ACT IV, SCENE 3, PART 1, EVERGREEN PAGE 152 TO 158

 

JULIUS CAESAR, ACT IV, SCENE 3, PART 1, EVERGREEN PAGE 152 TO 158

BRUTUS’ TENT

Enter BRUTUS and CASSIUS

Cassius. That you have wrong'd me doth appear in this:
……………………….Cassius………………. Than ever thou lovedst Cassius.

Glossary:

Wronged — treated unjustly / अन्याय किया; अनुचित व्यवहार किया / ଅନ୍ୟାୟ କରିଥିଲେ; ଅନୁଚିତ ବ୍ୟବହାର କରିଥିଲେ

Doth appear — does become clear / स्पष्ट होता है / ସ୍ପଷ୍ଟ ହେଉଛି

Condemn’d — declared guilty; disapproved of / दोषी ठहराया / ଦୋଷୀ ସାବ୍ୟସ୍ତ କରିଥିଲେ

Noted — marked out for blame or punishment / दोष के लिए चिह्नित किया / ଦୋଷ ପାଇଁ ଚିହ୍ନିତ କରିଥିଲେ

Lucius Pella — the man accused in this passage of accepting bribes / रिश्वत लेने का आरोपी व्यक्ति / ଏହି ପାଠ୍ୟାଂଶରେ ଲାଞ୍ଚ ନେବା ଅଭିଯୋଗରେ ଅଭିଯୁକ୍ତ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତି

Bribes — dishonest payments made to gain favours / रिश्वत / ଲାଞ୍ଚ

Sardians — inhabitants of Sardis / सार्डिस के निवासी / ସାର୍ଡିସ୍‌ର ବାସିନ୍ଦା

Wherein — in which matter / जिस मामले में / ଯେଉଁ ବିଷୟରେ

Praying on his side — pleading in his favour / उसके पक्ष में विनती करते हुए / ତାଙ୍କ ସପକ୍ଷରେ ଅନୁରୋଧ କରି

Slighted off — disregarded; treated as unimportant / अनदेखा किया गया / ଅବହେଳା କରାଗଲା

Not meet — not proper or suitable / उचित नहीं / ଉଚିତ ନୁହେଁ

Nice offence — a minor or trivial offence / छोटा-मोटा अपराध / ସାମାନ୍ୟ ଅପରାଧ

Bear his comment — deserve criticism or discussion / आलोचना का पात्र होना / ସମାଲୋଚନାର ପାତ୍ର ହେବା

Itching palm — greed for money; a tendency to accept bribes / धन का लालच; रिश्वत लेने की प्रवृत्ति / ଧନଲୋଭ; ଲାଞ୍ଚ ନେବାର ପ୍ରବୃତ୍ତି

Sell and mart — trade or bargain for personal gain; here, misuse official positions for money / लाभ के लिए सौदा करना; यहाँ पदों का धन के लिए दुरुपयोग करना / ଲାଭ ପାଇଁ କାରବାର କରିବା; ଏଠାରେ ଧନ ପାଇଁ ପଦବୀର ଅପବ୍ୟବହାର କରିବା

Offices — official positions or duties / सरकारी पद या कर्तव्य / ସରକାରୀ ପଦବୀ ବା କର୍ତ୍ତବ୍ୟ

Undeservers — people who do not deserve favours / अयोग्य व्यक्ति / ଅଯୋଗ୍ୟ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତି

Corruption — dishonest conduct; here, accepting money improperly / भ्रष्टाचार; अनुचित ढंग से धन लेना / ଦୁର୍ନୀତି; ଅନୁଚିତ ଭାବରେ ଧନ ଗ୍ରହଣ କରିବା

Chastisement — punishment or severe reprimand / दंड; कड़ी फटकार / ଦଣ୍ଡ; କଠୋର ଭର୍ତ୍ସନା

Hide his head — remain concealed or escape notice / छिपा रहना; नज़र से बचना / ଲୁଚି ରହିବା; ଦୃଷ୍ଟିରୁ ଦୂରେ ରହିବା

Ides of March — the fifteenth of March / मार्च की पंद्रह तारीख / ମାର୍ଚ୍ଚ ମାସର ପନ୍ଦର ତାରିଖ

Bleed — shed blood; here, be killed / खून बहाना; यहाँ मारा जाना / ରକ୍ତ ବୁହାଇବା; ଏଠାରେ ହତ୍ୟା ହେବା

For justice’ sake — for the sake of justice / न्याय के लिए / ନ୍ୟାୟ ପାଇଁ

Villain — a wicked or criminal person / दुष्ट या अपराधी व्यक्ति / ଦୁଷ୍ଟ ବା ଅପରାଧୀ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତି

Touch’d — touched / छुआ / ଛୁଇଁଥିଲା

Stab — strike or wound with a pointed weapon / छुरा घोंपना / ଛୁରି ଭୁସିବା

Struck — hit or attacked / प्रहार किया / ଆଘାତ କରିଥିଲେ

Foremost — most important; greatest / सबसे प्रमुख; सर्वोच्च / ସବୁଠାରୁ ପ୍ରମୁଖ; ସର୍ବଶ୍ରେଷ୍ଠ

Supporting — helping or protecting / सहायता करना; समर्थन करना / ସାହାଯ୍ୟ କରିବା; ସମର୍ଥନ କରିବା

Robbers — people who steal or plunder / लुटेरे / ଲୁଟେରା

Contaminate — make impure; here, stain one's honour through wrongdoing / दूषित करना; यहाँ अनुचित काम से अपनी प्रतिष्ठा कलंकित करना / ଦୂଷିତ କରିବା; ଏଠାରେ ଅନୁଚିତ କାମ ଦ୍ୱାରା ନିଜ ମର୍ଯ୍ୟାଦାକୁ କଳଙ୍କିତ କରିବା

Base — dishonourable; morally low / नीच; अनैतिक / ହୀନ; ଅନୈତିକ

Mighty — great and powerful / महान; शक्तिशाली / ମହାନ; ଶକ୍ତିଶାଳୀ

Space — extent or scope; here, the dignity and standing of their honoured positions / विस्तार; यहाँ उनके सम्मानित पदों की प्रतिष्ठा / ପରିସର; ଏଠାରେ ସେମାନଙ୍କ ସମ୍ମାନଜନକ ପଦବୀର ମର୍ଯ୍ୟାଦା

Honours — dignity and prestige / सम्मान और प्रतिष्ठा / ସମ୍ମାନ ଓ ମର୍ଯ୍ୟାଦା

Trash — worthless stuff; here, a contemptuous reference to money / कूड़ा; यहाँ धन के लिए तिरस्कारपूर्ण शब्द / ଆବର୍ଜନା; ଏଠାରେ ଧନ ପାଇଁ ଅବମାନନାସୂଚକ ଶବ୍ଦ

Grasped — seized or held / पकड़ लिया / ଧରିନେଲେ

Rather — more willingly; in preference / अधिक पसंद से / ଅଧିକ ପସନ୍ଦରେ

Bay — bark loudly / जोर से भौंकना / ଜୋରରେ ଭୁକିବା

Dog — a domesticated animal / कुत्ता / କୁକୁର

Moon — the natural satellite of the Earth / चंद्रमा / ଚନ୍ଦ୍ର

Soldier — a member of an army / सैनिक / ସୈନିକ

Endure — tolerate; bear / सहन करना / ସହ୍ୟ କରିବା

Forget yourself — lose control of your behaviour / अपने व्यवहार पर नियंत्रण खो देना / ନିଜ ଆଚରଣ ଉପରେ ନିୟନ୍ତ୍ରଣ ହରାଇବା

Hedge me in — restrict or confine me / मुझे सीमित करना; घेर लेना / ମୋତେ ସୀମିତ କରିବା; ଘେରି ରଖିବା

Practise — experience or skill gained through repeated activity / अभ्यास; अनुभव / ଅଭ୍ୟାସ; ଅନୁଭବ

Abler — more capable / अधिक सक्षम / ଅଧିକ ଦକ୍ଷ

Conditions — terms or arrangements / शर्तें / ସର୍ତ୍ତାବଳୀ

Go to! — an expression of disagreement or dismissal / हटो!; बकवास! / ଯାଅ!; ଅବଜ୍ଞା ବା ଅସମ୍ମତିସୂଚକ ଉକ୍ତି

Urge me no more — do not press or provoke me any further / मुझे और मत उकसाओ / ମୋତେ ଆଉ ଉସୁକାଅ ନାହିଁ

Have mind upon your health — take care of your safety / अपनी सुरक्षा का ध्यान रखो / ନିଜ ସୁରକ୍ଷା ପ୍ରତି ଧ୍ୟାନ ଦିଅ

Tempt me no further — do not provoke me any more / मुझे और मत उकसाओ / ମୋତେ ଆଉ ଉସୁକାଅ ନାହିଁ

Slight man — an insignificant or contemptible man / तुच्छ व्यक्ति / ତୁଚ୍ଛ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତି

Give way — yield or surrender one's position / झुक जाना; पीछे हटना / ନଇଁଯିବା; ପଛକୁ ହଟିବା

Room — space or allowance / जगह; छूट / ସ୍ଥାନ; ଛାଡ଼

Rash — acting without careful thought / उतावला; बिना सोचे-समझे किया गया / ଅବିବେକୀ; ନ ଭାବିଚିନ୍ତି କରାଯାଇଥିବା

Choler — anger / क्रोध / କ୍ରୋଧ

Frighted — frightened; made afraid / भयभीत किया / ଭୟଭୀତ କରିଥିଲେ

Madman — a person behaving irrationally or furiously / पागल व्यक्ति / ପାଗଳ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତି

Stares — looks fixedly / घूरता है / ଏକଦୃଷ୍ଟିରେ ଚାହେଁ

Ay — yes; indeed / हाँ; निश्चय ही / ହଁ; ନିଶ୍ଚୟ

Fret — become irritated or distressed / झुँझलाना; परेशान होना / ବିରକ୍ତ ହେବା; ଚିନ୍ତିତ ହେବା

Proud — having an excessively high opinion of oneself / अभिमानी / ଅହଂକାରୀ

Break — here, collapse under intense emotion / यहाँ तीव्र भावनाओं से टूट जाना / ଏଠାରେ ତୀବ୍ର ଭାବନାରେ ଭାଙ୍ଗିପଡ଼ିବା

Slaves — people held in slavery / दास / କ୍ରୀତଦାସ

Choleric — easily angered / जल्दी क्रोधित होने वाला / ସହଜରେ କ୍ରୋଧିତ ହେଉଥିବା

Bondmen — enslaved men / दास / କ୍ରୀତଦାସ

Tremble — shake with fear / भय से काँपना / ଭୟରେ ଥରିବା

Budge — move or give way / हटना; खिसकना / ଘୁଞ୍ଚିବା; ପଛକୁ ହଟିବା

Observe you — obey or defer to you / आपकी आज्ञा मानना; आपका लिहाज करना / ତୁମ ଆଦେଶ ମାନିବା; ତୁମକୁ ମାନ୍ୟ କରିବା

Crouch — bend low / झुककर बैठना / ନଇଁବା

Testy — irritable / चिड़चिड़ा / ଖିଜିଯାଉଥିବା

Humour — mood or temper / मनोदशा; मिजाज / ମନୋଭାବ; ମିଜାଜ

Digest — endure or bear / सहन करना / ସହ୍ୟ କରିବା

Venom — poison; here, bitter anger / विष; यहाँ कटु क्रोध / ବିଷ; ଏଠାରେ ବିଷାକ୍ତ କ୍ରୋଧ

Spleen — anger or ill temper / क्रोध; चिड़चिड़ापन / କ୍ରୋଧ; ବିରକ୍ତି

Split you — burst or break you; here, be overwhelmed by anger / तुम्हें फाड़ देना; यहाँ क्रोध से टूट पड़ना / ତୁମକୁ ଫଟାଇଦେବା; ଏଠାରେ କ୍ରୋଧରେ ଭାଙ୍ଗିପଡ଼ିବା

From this day forth — from this day onward / आज से आगे / ଆଜିଠାରୁ

Mirth — amusement or laughter / आमोद-प्रमोद / ଆମୋଦ-ପ୍ରମୋଦ

Yea — yes; indeed / हाँ; बल्कि / ହଁ; ବରଂ

Waspish — irritable or quick to anger / चिड़चिड़ा; जल्दी क्रोधित होने वाला / ଖିଜିଯାଉଥିବା; ସହଜରେ କ୍ରୋଧିତ ହେଉଥିବା

Vaunting — boasting proudly / डींग मारना / ଗର୍ବୋକ୍ତି କରିବା

For mine own part — as far as I am concerned / जहाँ तक मेरा संबंध है / ମୋ କଥା ଯଦି କୁହାଯାଏ

Noble men — honourable men / सम्माननीय व्यक्ति / ସମ୍ମାନନୀୟ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତି

Elder — older / अधिक उम्र वाला / ବୟସରେ ବଡ଼

Durst — dared / साहस किया / ସାହସ କରିଥିଲା

Moved me — provoked or challenged me / मुझे उकसाया या चुनौती दी / ମୋତେ ଉସୁକାଇଥିଲା ବା ଆହ୍ୱାନ ଦେଇଥିଲା

Peace, peace! — be quiet; stop arguing / चुप रहो; बहस बंद करो / ଚୁପ୍ ରୁହ; ଯୁକ୍ତିତର୍କ ବନ୍ଦ କର

Presume — act too boldly or confidently / हद से बढ़ना; अनुचित साहस करना / ସୀମା ଲଂଘିବା; ଅତ୍ୟଧିକ ସାହସ ଦେଖାଇବା

Upon my love — taking advantage of my affection / मेरे स्नेह का अनुचित लाभ उठाकर / ମୋ ସ୍ନେହର ଅନୁଚିତ ସୁଯୋଗ ନେଇ

Sorry for — regretful about / जिसके लिए पछताना पड़े / ଯାହା ପାଇଁ ଅନୁତାପ କରିବାକୁ ପଡ଼ିବ

Terror — extreme fear / आतंक; भय / ଆତଙ୍କ; ଭୟ

Threats — warnings of intended harm / धमकियाँ / ଧମକ

Arm’d — armed; equipped or protected / सशस्त्र; सुरक्षित / ଅସ୍ତ୍ରଧାରୀ; ସୁରକ୍ଷିତ

Honesty — moral integrity; uprightness / ईमानदारी; नैतिक सत्यनिष्ठा / ସଚ୍ଚୋଟତା; ନୈତିକ ସତ୍ୟନିଷ୍ଠା

Pass by me — have no effect on me / मुझ पर कोई प्रभाव न डालना / ମୋ ଉପରେ କୌଣସି ପ୍ରଭାବ ନ ପକାଇବା

Idle wind — an ineffective or empty threat, compared to a harmless wind / निष्प्रभावी हवा; यहाँ खोखली धमकी / ନିଷ୍ଫଳ ପବନ; ଏଠାରେ ଖୋକା ଧମକ

Respect not — pay no attention to; disregard / परवाह न करना / ଖାତିର ନ କରିବା

Certain sums — specified amounts of money / निश्चित धनराशियाँ / ନିର୍ଦ୍ଦିଷ୍ଟ ପରିମାଣର ଧନ

Denied — refused / इनकार किया / ମନା କରିଦେଲେ

Vile — wicked or morally wrong / नीच; अनैतिक / ହୀନ; ଅନୈତିକ

Coin my heart — figuratively, turn his heart into money rather than obtain it dishonestly / रूपक रूप में, अपने हृदय को सिक्कों में बदल देना; बेईमानी से धन लेने के बजाय स्वयं कष्ट सहना / ରୂପକ ଅର୍ଥରେ, ନିଜ ହୃଦୟକୁ ମୁଦ୍ରାରେ ପରିଣତ କରିବା; ଅସାଧୁ ଉପାୟରେ ଧନ ନେବା ପରିବର୍ତ୍ତେ ନିଜେ କଷ୍ଟ ସହିବା

Drop my blood for drachmas — shed his own blood for money; figuratively, suffer personally rather than extort money / धन के लिए अपना खून बहाना; यहाँ दूसरों से अनुचित ढंग से धन लेने के बजाय स्वयं कष्ट सहना / ଧନ ପାଇଁ ନିଜ ରକ୍ତ ଦେବା; ଏଠାରେ ଅନ୍ୟମାନଙ୍କଠାରୁ ଅନ୍ୟାୟ ଭାବରେ ଧନ ଆଦାୟ କରିବା ପରିବର୍ତ୍ତେ ନିଜେ କଷ୍ଟ ସହିବା

Drachmas — ancient Greek coins / प्राचीन यूनानी सिक्के / ପ୍ରାଚୀନ ଗ୍ରୀକ୍ ମୁଦ୍ରା

Wring — obtain by force or pressure / बलपूर्वक लेना / ଜୋର କରି ଆଦାୟ କରିବା

Hard hands — rough hands resulting from hard labour / कठिन परिश्रम से खुरदरे हुए हाथ / କଠିନ ପରିଶ୍ରମ ଯୋଗୁଁ ଟାଣ ହୋଇଥିବା ହାତ

Peasants — rural farmers or agricultural workers / किसान; कृषक / କୃଷକ; ଚାଷୀ

Vile trash — contemptuous reference to money obtained dishonestly / बेईमानी से प्राप्त तुच्छ धन / ଅସାଧୁ ଉପାୟରେ ମିଳିଥିବା ତୁଚ୍ଛ ଧନ

Indirection — indirect, dishonest or improper means / छलपूर्ण या अनुचित तरीका / ଛଳପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ ବା ଅନୁଚିତ ଉପାୟ

Legions — large divisions of the Roman army / रोमन सेना की बड़ी टुकड़ियाँ / ରୋମୀୟ ସେନାର ବୃହତ୍ ବାହିନୀ

Rascal — a dishonest or contemptible person / दुष्ट या नीच व्यक्ति / ଦୁଷ୍ଟ ବା ହୀନ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତି

Counters — coins or money / सिक्के; धन / ମୁଦ୍ରା; ଧନ

Covetous — excessively greedy / अत्यधिक लालची / ଅତ୍ୟଧିକ ଲୋଭୀ

Lock such rascal counters from his friends — withhold such money from one's friends / अपने मित्रों को ऐसा धन देने से रोकना / ନିଜ ବନ୍ଧୁମାନଙ୍କୁ ଏପରି ଧନ ଦେବାରୁ ବଞ୍ଚିତ କରିବା

Thunderbolts — bolts of lightning / वज्रपात / ବଜ୍ରପାତ

Dash him to pieces — smash him completely / उसे टुकड़े-टुकड़े कर देना / ତାକୁ ଖଣ୍ଡଖଣ୍ଡ କରିଦେବା

But a fool — merely a fool / केवल एक मूर्ख / କେବଳ ଜଣେ ମୂର୍ଖ

Rived — split or torn apart; here, deeply wounded emotionally / चीर दिया; यहाँ मन को गहरा आघात पहुँचाया / ଚିରିଦେଲା; ଏଠାରେ ମନକୁ ଗଭୀର ଆଘାତ ଦେଲା

Infirmities — weaknesses or faults / कमजोरियाँ; दोष / ଦୁର୍ବଳତା; ତ୍ରୁଟି

Greater than they are — more serious or greater than they really are / वास्तविकता से अधिक गंभीर या बड़ा / ବାସ୍ତବତାଠାରୁ ଅଧିକ ଗୁରୁତର ବା ବଡ଼

Practise them on me — display or exercise those faults in dealing with me / मेरे साथ उन दोषों का व्यवहार करना / ମୋ ସହିତ ସେହି ତ୍ରୁଟିଗୁଡ଼ିକର ପ୍ରୟୋଗ କରିବା

Friendly eye — a sympathetic and understanding look / सहानुभूतिपूर्ण और समझदार दृष्टि / ସହାନୁଭୂତିପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ ଓ ବୁଝାମଣାଭରା ଦୃଷ୍ଟି

Flatterer — a person who gives insincere praise / चापलूस / ଚାଟୁକାର

Huge — extremely large / बहुत विशाल / ଅତ୍ୟନ୍ତ ବିଶାଳ

High Olympus — Mount Olympus, used here as a comparison for great height / ऊँचे ओलिम्पस पर्वत का उल्लेख / ଉଚ୍ଚ ଓଲିମ୍ପସ୍ ପର୍ବତର ଉଲ୍ଲେଖ

Revenge yourselves — take revenge / बदला लो / ପ୍ରତିଶୋଧ ନିଅ

Alone on Cassius — against Cassius alone / केवल कैसियस के विरुद्ध / କେବଳ କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ବିରୋଧରେ

Aweary — weary; tired / थका हुआ / କ୍ଳାନ୍ତ

Hated — regarded with dislike or hostility / घृणा किया गया / ଘୃଣା କରାଯାଇଥିଲା

Braved — challenged or defied / ललकारा गया / ଆହ୍ୱାନ ଦିଆଯାଇଥିଲା

Cheque’d — checked, restrained or rebuked / रोका गया; फटकारा गया / ରୋକାଯାଇଥିଲା; ଭର୍ତ୍ସନା କରାଯାଇଥିଲା

Bondman — an enslaved person / दास / କ୍ରୀତଦାସ

Observed — noticed or paid attention to / ध्यान दिया गया / ଲକ୍ଷ୍ୟ କରାଯାଇଥିଲା

Note-book — a book used for writing notes / नोटबुक / ଟିପାଖାତା

Conn’d by rote — learned by repeated memorisation / रटकर याद किया गया / ବାରମ୍ବାର ମୁଖସ୍ଥ କରାଯାଇଥିଲା

Cast into my teeth — reproach me by reminding me of my faults / मेरी कमियाँ गिनाकर मुझे ताना देना / ମୋ ତ୍ରୁଟିଗୁଡ଼ିକୁ ମନେ ପକାଇ ମୋତେ ତାତ୍ସଲ୍ୟ କରିବା

Spirit — inner self or soul / आत्मा / ଆତ୍ମା

Mine eyes — my eyes / मेरी आँखें / ମୋ ଆଖି

Dagger — a short pointed weapon / कटार; खंजर / କଟାରୀ; ଛୋଟ ଛୁରି

Naked breast — uncovered chest / अनावृत छाती / ଅନାବୃତ ଛାତି

Dearer — more precious / अधिक मूल्यवान / ଅଧିକ ମୂଲ୍ୟବାନ

Plutus’ mine — a reference to the imagined wealth of Plutus, the Greek god of riches / धन के यूनानी देवता प्लूटस की कल्पित खदान / ଗ୍ରୀକ୍ ଧନଦେବତା ପ୍ଲୁଟସ୍‌ଙ୍କ କଳ୍ପିତ ଧନଖଣି

Richer than gold — more valuable than gold / सोने से अधिक मूल्यवान / ସୁନାଠାରୁ ଅଧିକ ମୂଲ୍ୟବାନ

Thou — you, an old form of address / तुम / ତୁମେ

Be’st — are, an archaic form used with thou / हो / ଅଟ

Take it forth — take it out / उसे बाहर निकालो / ତାହାକୁ ବାହାର କର

Thee — you, an old form used as an object / तुम्हें / ତୁମକୁ

Didst — did, an archaic form used with thou / किया / କରିଥିଲ

Worst — most intensely or severely / सबसे अधिक / ସବୁଠାରୁ ଅଧିକ

Lovedst — loved, an archaic form used with thou / प्रेम किया / ଭଲ ପାଇଥିଲ

Summary

The scene takes place in Brutus’ tent, where Brutus and Cassius engage in a heated quarrel over corruption, personal honour, military authority, and their friendship.

Cassius begins by complaining that Brutus has wronged him by condemning and publicly censuring Lucius Pella for accepting bribes from the Sardians. Cassius explains that he had written letters requesting Brutus to favour Pella because he knew him personally, but Brutus ignored those letters. Brutus replies that Cassius was wrong to write in support of Pella in such a matter. Cassius argues that, in such a critical time, every minor offence should not be subjected to severe criticism.

Brutus strongly condemns Cassius for having a greedy desire for money, which he describes as an “itching palm.” He accuses Cassius of selling official positions to undeserving people in exchange for gold. Cassius becomes furious at this accusation and warns Brutus that, if anyone else had spoken those words, they would have been his last. Brutus responds that Cassius’ reputation protects his corruption from punishment.

Brutus then reminds Cassius of the Ides of March, when Julius Caesar was assassinated. He asks whether they did not kill Caesar in the name of justice, believing that Caesar supported robbers. Brutus argues that it would be shameful for them, who attacked the most prominent man in the world supposedly for justice, to accept bribes themselves. He refuses to exchange the honour and dignity of their positions for worthless money. He declares that he would rather be a dog barking at the moon than become such a dishonourable Roman.

Cassius cannot tolerate Brutus’ insulting remarks. He reminds Brutus that he is an experienced soldier, older in military practice and more capable of making arrangements. Brutus rejects this claim, and the quarrel becomes increasingly bitter. Cassius warns Brutus not to provoke him further and tells him to take care of his own safety. Brutus calls Cassius a contemptible man and refuses to be intimidated by his anger.

Brutus challenges Cassius by asking whether he should give way to his uncontrolled temper or feel frightened when Cassius stares at him angrily. Cassius appeals to the gods, wondering whether he must endure such insults. Brutus replies that Cassius may become even more distressed, but he will not submit to his anger. He sarcastically tells Cassius to display his temper before his slaves and make his bondmen tremble if he wishes. Brutus refuses to move, obey him submissively, or tolerate his irritable behaviour. He declares that Cassius will have to bear the consequences of his own anger and that Brutus will even laugh at him when he becomes irritable.

Brutus then challenges Cassius to prove his claim of being a better soldier. He says that he would be pleased to learn from noble men. Cassius protests that he had called himself an older soldier, not a better one. Brutus says that he does not care whether Cassius used the word “better.” Cassius remarks that Caesar would never have dared to challenge him in this manner when he was alive. Brutus retorts that Cassius would not have dared to provoke Caesar either. Cassius becomes indignant at this statement and warns Brutus not to take excessive advantage of their friendship, as he might do something he would later regret. Brutus answers that Cassius has already done something for which he should be sorry.

Brutus then declares that Cassius’ threats cannot frighten him because his honesty is his strongest protection. He compares the threats to an ineffective wind that he does not respect. Brutus explains that he had requested certain sums of gold from Cassius to pay his legions, but Cassius refused to provide the money. Brutus insists that he cannot raise money through dishonourable means. He would rather turn his own heart into coins and shed his own blood for money than forcibly take even a small amount from hardworking peasants through dishonest methods. He condemns Cassius for refusing to provide the money needed to pay the soldiers and questions whether such behaviour is worthy of Cassius. In anger, Brutus calls upon the gods to destroy him if Marcus Brutus ever becomes so greedy that he withholds money from his friends.

Cassius denies that he refused Brutus the money. He explains that the person who brought back his answer was a fool. He then declares that Brutus has deeply wounded his heart. According to Cassius, a friend should tolerate the weaknesses of another friend, but Brutus exaggerates his faults and makes them appear worse than they really are. Brutus replies that he does not criticise Cassius’ faults until Cassius practises them against him.

Cassius then complains that Brutus does not love him. Brutus answers that he does not like Cassius’ faults. Cassius argues that a true friend should not see such faults. Brutus counters that a flatterer would overlook them even when they were as enormous as Mount Olympus. Through this exchange, Brutus distinguishes genuine friendship from dishonest praise.

Overwhelmed by the quarrel, Cassius becomes deeply emotional. He calls upon Antony and young Octavius to take revenge upon him because he is tired of the world. He feels hated by the man he loves, challenged by his own companion, treated like a slave, and constantly criticised for his faults. He complains that Brutus has carefully observed and memorised his weaknesses so that he can repeatedly reproach him. Cassius says that his grief is so intense that he could weep his very spirit from his eyes.

Finally, Cassius points to his dagger and exposes his breast, declaring that his heart is more precious than the legendary treasures of Plutus and richer than gold. He challenges Brutus, if he is truly a Roman, to take his heart. Although Cassius had refused Brutus gold, he now offers him his heart. He invites Brutus to strike him as he had struck Caesar. Cassius concludes by saying that, even when Brutus hated Caesar most, Brutus loved Caesar more than he had ever loved Cassius.

Central idea: The passage portrays the bitter conflict between Brutus and Cassius over bribery, integrity, money, military authority, and friendship. Their argument reveals Brutus’ uncompromising attitude towards corruption and Cassius’ wounded pride and emotional attachment to Brutus.

हिंदी स्तृत सारांश

यह दृश्य ब्रूटस के तंबू में घटित होता है। इसमें ब्रूटस और कैसियस के बीच गंभीर विवाद होता है। विवाद का मुख्य कारण ब्रूटस द्वारा कैसियस पर भ्रष्टाचार के आरोप लगाना और कैसियस द्वारा अपनी निष्ठा तथा मित्रता का बचाव करना है।

ब्रूटस कैसियस से कहता है कि उसने उसे एक पत्र लिखा था, लेकिन कैसियस ने उसका उत्तर नहीं दिया। इसके बाद ब्रूटस उस मामले का उल्लेख करता है जिसमें लूसियस पेला को रिश्वत लेने के कारण दंडित किया गया था। कैसियस ने लूसियस पेला का समर्थन किया था, लेकिन ब्रूटस ने उसे दोषी ठहराया। ब्रूटस का कहना है कि कैसियस ने इस मामले में उसका विरोध किया और उसे अनुचित रूप से बचाने का प्रयास किया।

ब्रूटस कैसियस पर धन के प्रति लालची होने का आरोप लगाता है। वह कहता है कि कैसियस के हाथों में भी वही दोष दिखाई देता है जिसकी उसने सीज़र में आलोचना की थी। ब्रूटस के अनुसार, यदि वे स्वयं भ्रष्टाचार में लिप्त हो जाएँ, तो सीज़र की हत्या करने का उनका उद्देश्य ही व्यर्थ हो जाएगा। वे सीज़र को इसलिए हटाना चाहते थे क्योंकि वह सत्ता और धन के लिए अनुचित व्यवहार करता था। यदि वे स्वयं भी उसी प्रकार का आचरण करें, तो उनमें और सीज़र में कोई वास्तविक अंतर नहीं रहेगा।

कैसियस ब्रूटस के आरोपों से क्रोधित हो जाता है। वह ब्रूटस से कहता है कि उसे उसके साथ इस प्रकार बात नहीं करनी चाहिए। वह अपने सैनिक अनुभव और युद्ध में किए गए कार्यों का उल्लेख करता है। कैसियस स्वयं को एक अनुभवी सैनिक मानता है और उसे लगता है कि ब्रूटस उसके योगदान तथा सम्मान का उचित मूल्यांकन नहीं कर रहा है। दोनों के बीच बातचीत और अधिक तीखी हो जाती है।

ब्रूटस अपने सिद्धांतों पर दृढ़ रहता है। वह स्पष्ट करता है कि वह किसी भी व्यक्ति को, चाहे वह उसका मित्र ही क्यों न हो, भ्रष्टाचार के कारण बचाने के पक्ष में नहीं है। उसके लिए ईमानदारी और सार्वजनिक कर्तव्य व्यक्तिगत संबंधों से अधिक महत्त्वपूर्ण हैं। वह यह भी संकेत देता है कि कैसियस को अपनी संपत्ति और धन का उपयोग अनुचित उद्देश्यों के लिए नहीं करना चाहिए।

इसके बाद दोनों के बीच धन को लेकर एक और विवाद उत्पन्न होता है। ब्रूटस कैसियस से कहता है कि उसने अपनी सेना के लिए आवश्यक धन माँगा था, लेकिन कैसियस ने उसे पर्याप्त सहायता नहीं दी। कैसियस इस शिकायत से आहत होता है। वह अपने व्यवहार का बचाव करता है और महसूस करता है कि ब्रूटस उसकी मित्रता तथा निष्ठा पर संदेह कर रहा है।

विवाद के दौरान कैसियस का क्रोध और भावनात्मक तनाव बढ़ जाता है। वह ब्रूटस को चुनौती देता है और कहता है कि यदि ब्रूटस उसे और अधिक अपमानित करेगा, तो वह अपने व्यवहार पर नियंत्रण नहीं रख पाएगा। ब्रूटस भी पीछे हटने को तैयार नहीं होता। दोनों मित्रों के बीच तनाव इतना बढ़ जाता है कि उनकी मित्रता टूटती हुई प्रतीत होती है।

कैसियस अंततः अपनी भावनाओं पर नियंत्रण खोने लगता है। वह अपने हृदय और खंजर का उल्लेख करते हुए कहता है कि ब्रूटस चाहे तो उसे दंडित कर सकता है। वह यह भी कहता है कि ब्रूटस का प्रेम उसके लिए इतना महत्त्वपूर्ण है कि वह उसके हाथों मरना भी स्वीकार कर सकता है। कैसियस की बातों से स्पष्ट होता है कि उसके क्रोध के पीछे गहरी भावनात्मक पीड़ा और ब्रूटस के प्रति उसका लगाव छिपा है।

ब्रूटस और कैसियस का विवाद केवल धन या किसी व्यक्ति को दंडित करने के विषय तक सीमित नहीं है। यह उनके सिद्धांतों, स्वाभिमान, मित्रता और एक-दूसरे से अपेक्षाओं के बीच उत्पन्न संघर्ष को भी प्रकट करता है। ब्रूटस अपने नैतिक सिद्धांतों पर अडिग रहता है, जबकि कैसियस को लगता है कि उसकी निष्ठा और योगदान का सम्मान नहीं किया जा रहा है।

मुख्य विचार

इस अंश में ब्रूटस और कैसियस के बीच मित्रता के बावजूद उत्पन्न गंभीर मतभेद दिखाए गए हैं। ब्रूटस ईमानदारी और सिद्धांतों को सर्वोपरि मानता है, जबकि कैसियस अपने सम्मान, अनुभव और मित्रता के प्रति संवेदनशील है। उनका विवाद यह दर्शाता है कि नैतिक सिद्धांतों, व्यक्तिगत भावनाओं और आपसी विश्वास के बीच संघर्ष होने पर घनिष्ठ संबंध भी तनावपूर्ण हो सकते हैं।

ଓଡ଼ିଆ ସାରାଂଶ

ଏହି ଦୃଶ୍ୟଟି ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ତମ୍ବୁରେ ଘଟିଛି। ଏଥିରେ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ ଓ କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ଏକ ଗୁରୁତର ଯୁକ୍ତିତର୍କ ହୋଇଛି। ଏହି ବିବାଦର ମୁଖ୍ୟ କାରଣ ହେଉଛି ଲାଞ୍ଚ ନେବା ଅଭିଯୋଗରେ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ଦୃଢ଼ ମନୋଭାବ ଏବଂ ନିଜର ନିଷ୍ଠା ଓ ବନ୍ଧୁତାକୁ ନେଇ କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ପକ୍ଷ ସମର୍ଥନ।

ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କୁ କହନ୍ତି ଯେ ସେ ତାଙ୍କୁ ଏକ ଚିଠି ଲେଖିଥିଲେ, କିନ୍ତୁ କାସିଅସ୍ ତାହାର ଉତ୍ତର ଦେଇନଥିଲେ। ଏହାପରେ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ ଲୁସିଅସ୍ ପେଲାଙ୍କ ଘଟଣା ଉଠାନ୍ତି। ଲାଞ୍ଚ ନେବା ଅଭିଯୋଗରେ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ ଲୁସିଅସ୍ ପେଲାଙ୍କୁ ଦଣ୍ଡିତ କରିଥିଲେ, କିନ୍ତୁ କାସିଅସ୍ ତାଙ୍କ ପକ୍ଷ ନେଇଥିଲେ। ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ମତରେ, କାସିଅସ୍ ଏହି ମାମଲାରେ ତାଙ୍କୁ ବିରୋଧ କରି ଜଣେ ଦୋଷୀ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିଙ୍କୁ ଅନୁଚିତ ଭାବରେ ସମର୍ଥନ କରିଥିଲେ।

ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ଉପରେ ଧନଲୋଭର ଅଭିଯୋଗ ଆଣନ୍ତି। ସେ କହନ୍ତି ଯେ କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ହାତରେ ମଧ୍ୟ ସେହି ଦୋଷ ଦେଖାଯାଉଛି, ଯାହା ପାଇଁ ସେମାନେ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ନିନ୍ଦା କରିଥିଲେ। ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ମତରେ, ଯଦି ସେମାନେ ନିଜେ ଦୁର୍ନୀତିରେ ଲିପ୍ତ ହୁଅନ୍ତି, ତେବେ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ହତ୍ୟା କରିବା ପଛରେ ଥିବା ସେମାନଙ୍କ ଉଦ୍ଦେଶ୍ୟ ଅର୍ଥହୀନ ହୋଇଯିବ। ସେମାନେ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ତାଙ୍କର ଅନ୍ୟାୟ ଆଚରଣ ପାଇଁ ବିରୋଧ କରିଥିଲେ। ତେଣୁ ଯଦି ସେମାନେ ମଧ୍ୟ ସେହିପରି ଆଚରଣ କରନ୍ତି, ତେବେ ସେମାନଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ଓ ସିଜର୍‌ଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ କୌଣସି ପ୍ରକୃତ ପାର୍ଥକ୍ୟ ରହିବ ନାହିଁ।

ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ଅଭିଯୋଗରେ କାସିଅସ୍ କ୍ରୋଧିତ ହୋଇଯାଆନ୍ତି। ସେ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍‌ଙ୍କୁ କହନ୍ତି ଯେ ତାଙ୍କ ସହିତ ଏପରି ଭାବରେ କଥା ହେବା ଉଚିତ ନୁହେଁ। ସେ ନିଜର ସାମରିକ ଅଭିଜ୍ଞତା ଓ ଯୁଦ୍ଧକ୍ଷେତ୍ରରେ କରିଥିବା କାର୍ଯ୍ୟର ଉଲ୍ଲେଖ କରନ୍ତି। କାସିଅସ୍ ନିଜକୁ ଜଣେ ଅଭିଜ୍ଞ ସୈନିକ ଭାବରେ ଦେଖନ୍ତି ଏବଂ ତାଙ୍କର ଅବଦାନ ଓ ସମ୍ମାନକୁ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ ଉଚିତ ମୂଲ୍ୟ ଦେଉନାହାନ୍ତି ବୋଲି ଅନୁଭବ କରନ୍ତି। ଫଳରେ ଉଭୟଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ କଥା କଟାକଟି ଆହୁରି ତୀବ୍ର ହୋଇଯାଏ।

ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ ନିଜର ନୀତି ଓ ଆଦର୍ଶରେ ଦୃଢ଼ ରହନ୍ତି। ସେ ସ୍ପଷ୍ଟ କରନ୍ତି ଯେ ଜଣେ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତି ତାଙ୍କର ବନ୍ଧୁ ହୋଇଥିଲେ ମଧ୍ୟ, ଦୁର୍ନୀତି କରିଥିଲେ ତାଙ୍କୁ ସମର୍ଥନ କରିବା ଉଚିତ ନୁହେଁ। ତାଙ୍କ ପାଇଁ ସଚ୍ଚୋଟତା ଓ ସାଧାରଣ କର୍ତ୍ତବ୍ୟ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିଗତ ସମ୍ପର୍କଠାରୁ ଅଧିକ ଗୁରୁତ୍ୱପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ। ସେ କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ଧନର ଅନୁଚିତ ବ୍ୟବହାର ନ କରିବାକୁ ମଧ୍ୟ ଇଙ୍ଗିତ କରନ୍ତି।

ଏହାପରେ ସେନା ପାଇଁ ଆବଶ୍ୟକ ଅର୍ଥକୁ ନେଇ ଉଭୟଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ଆଉ ଏକ ବିବାଦ ଦେଖାଦିଏ। ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କୁ କହନ୍ତି ଯେ ସେ ସେନା ପାଇଁ ଅର୍ଥ ମାଗିଥିଲେ, କିନ୍ତୁ କାସିଅସ୍ ତାଙ୍କୁ ଆବଶ୍ୟକ ପରିମାଣର ଅର୍ଥ ଦେଇନଥିଲେ। ଏହି ଅଭିଯୋଗରେ କାସିଅସ୍ ଆହତ ଓ ଅପମାନିତ ଅନୁଭବ କରନ୍ତି। ସେ ନିଜର ଆଚରଣକୁ ଯଥାର୍ଥ ବୋଲି ପ୍ରମାଣ କରିବାକୁ ଚେଷ୍ଟା କରନ୍ତି। ତାଙ୍କୁ ଲାଗେ ଯେ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ ତାଙ୍କର ବନ୍ଧୁତା ଓ ନିଷ୍ଠା ଉପରେ ସନ୍ଦେହ କରୁଛନ୍ତି।

ବିବାଦ ବଢ଼ିବା ସହିତ କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ କ୍ରୋଧ ଓ ମାନସିକ ଉତ୍ତେଜନା ବଢ଼ିଯାଏ। ସେ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍‌ଙ୍କୁ ଆହ୍ୱାନ କରନ୍ତି ଏବଂ ଇଙ୍ଗିତ କରନ୍ତି ଯେ ତାଙ୍କୁ ଆଉ ଅପମାନିତ କରାଗଲେ ସେ ନିଜର ଭାବନାକୁ ନିୟନ୍ତ୍ରଣ କରିପାରିବେ ନାହିଁ। ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ ମଧ୍ୟ ନିଜ ମତରୁ ପଛକୁ ହଟିବାକୁ ପ୍ରସ୍ତୁତ ନୁହନ୍ତି। ଏପରି ପରିସ୍ଥିତି ସୃଷ୍ଟି ହୁଏ ଯେ ଉଭୟଙ୍କ ଦୀର୍ଘଦିନର ବନ୍ଧୁତା ଭାଙ୍ଗିଯିବା ପରି ମନେହୁଏ।

ଶେଷରେ କାସିଅସ୍ ନିଜର ଭାବନାକୁ ଆଉ ଲୁଚାଇ ରଖିପାରନ୍ତି ନାହିଁ। ସେ ନିଜ ହୃଦୟ ଓ ଖଞ୍ଜରର ଉଲ୍ଲେଖ କରି କହନ୍ତି ଯେ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ ଚାହିଁଲେ ତାଙ୍କୁ ଦଣ୍ଡ ଦେଇପାରିବେ। ସେ ଏହା ମଧ୍ୟ କହନ୍ତି ଯେ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ପ୍ରେମ ଓ ବନ୍ଧୁତା ତାଙ୍କ ପାଇଁ ଏତେ ମୂଲ୍ୟବାନ ଯେ ସେ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ହାତରେ ମୃତ୍ୟୁକୁ ମଧ୍ୟ ଗ୍ରହଣ କରିପାରିବେ। କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ଏହି କଥାରୁ ଜଣାପଡ଼େ ଯେ ତାଙ୍କ କ୍ରୋଧ ପଛରେ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ପ୍ରତି ଗଭୀର ଭଲପାଇବା ଓ ଭାବନାତ୍ମକ ଆଘାତ ଲୁଚି ରହିଛି।

ଏହିପରି ଭାବରେ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ ଓ କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ବିବାଦ କେବଳ ଧନ କିମ୍ବା ଜଣେ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିଙ୍କୁ ଦଣ୍ଡ ଦେବା ବିଷୟରେ ସୀମିତ ରହେ ନାହିଁ। ଏହା ସେମାନଙ୍କର ନୀତି, ଆତ୍ମସମ୍ମାନ, ବନ୍ଧୁତା ଓ ପରସ୍ପର ପ୍ରତି ଆଶାକୁ ନେଇ ସୃଷ୍ଟି ହୋଇଥିବା ମତଭେଦକୁ ମଧ୍ୟ ପ୍ରକାଶ କରେ। ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ ନିଜର ନୈତିକ ଆଦର୍ଶରେ ଅଟଳ ରହନ୍ତି, ଯେତେବେଳେ କାସିଅସ୍ ନିଜର ନିଷ୍ଠା, ଅବଦାନ ଓ ସମ୍ମାନକୁ ଉଚିତ ମୂଲ୍ୟ ଦିଆଯାଉନଥିବା ଅନୁଭବ କରନ୍ତି।

ମୁଖ୍ୟ ଭାବ

ଏହି ଅଂଶରେ ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ ଓ କାସିଅସ୍‌ଙ୍କ ଘନିଷ୍ଠ ବନ୍ଧୁତା ମଧ୍ୟରେ ସୃଷ୍ଟି ହୋଇଥିବା ଗୁରୁତର ମତଭେଦ ଦେଖାଯାଇଛି। ବ୍ରୁଟସ୍ ସଚ୍ଚୋଟତା ଓ ନୀତିକୁ ସବୁଠାରୁ ଅଧିକ ଗୁରୁତ୍ୱ ଦିଅନ୍ତି; ଅନ୍ୟପକ୍ଷରେ, କାସିଅସ୍ ନିଜର ସମ୍ମାନ, ଅଭିଜ୍ଞତା ଓ ବନ୍ଧୁତା ପ୍ରତି ସମ୍ବେଦନଶୀଳ। ଏହି ବିବାଦ ଦର୍ଶାଏ ଯେ ନୈତିକ ଆଦର୍ଶ, ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିଗତ ଭାବନା ଓ ପରସ୍ପର ବିଶ୍ୱାସ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ସଂଘର୍ଷ ସୃଷ୍ଟି ହେଲେ ଘନିଷ୍ଠ ସମ୍ପର୍କ ମଧ୍ୟ ତିକ୍ତ ହୋଇପାରେ।

Text with Paraphrase

CASSIUS: “That you have wrong'd me doth appear in this: You have condemn'd and noted Lucius Pella For taking bribes here of the Sardians; Wherein my letters, praying on his side, Because I knew the man, were slighted off.”

Paraphrase: Cassius tells Brutus that he has wronged him, and the evidence is Brutus’s treatment of Lucius Pella. Brutus has condemned and censured Pella for accepting bribes from the Sardians. Cassius had written letters requesting Brutus to support Pella because he knew him personally. However, Brutus disregarded those letters and did not accept Cassius’s recommendation.

BRUTUS: “You wronged yourself to write in such a case.”

Paraphrase: Brutus replies that Cassius himself acted wrongly by writing in support of Pella in such a matter. Since Pella was accused of accepting bribes, Cassius should not have tried to influence Brutus’s decision in his favour.

CASSIUS: “In such a time as this it is not meet That every nice offence should bear his comment.”

Paraphrase: Cassius argues that, in a difficult time like the present, it is not appropriate to examine and criticise every minor offence so strictly. He believes that Brutus should not make an issue of every small fault when they are facing more important concerns.

BRUTUS: “Let me tell you, Cassius, you yourself Are much condemn'd to have an itching palm; To sell and mart your offices for gold To undeservers.”

Paraphrase: Brutus tells Cassius that he himself is widely accused of being greedy for money. The expression “an itching palm” refers to a desire to receive money, especially through bribery. Brutus accuses Cassius of selling his official positions, powers or favours in exchange for gold, even to people who do not deserve them. Thus, Brutus charges Cassius with corruption and dishonesty.

CASSIUS: “An itching palm! You know that you are Brutus that speak this, Or, by the gods, this speech were else your last.”

Paraphrase: Cassius repeats the accusation “an itching palm” in anger and disbelief. He tells Brutus that he is tolerating these insulting words only because the speaker is Brutus, whom he respects. Otherwise, he swears by the gods that anyone else who spoke to him in this manner would face a deadly consequence.

BRUTUS: “The name of Cassius honours this corruption, And chastisement doth therefore hide his head.”

Paraphrase: Brutus says that Cassius’s respected name and position protect his corrupt behaviour from punishment. Because Cassius is an influential person, the wrongdoing associated with him escapes the punishment it deserves. Brutus implies that Cassius’s reputation shields him from justice.

CASSIUS: “Chastisement!”

Paraphrase: Cassius repeats the word “chastisement” in astonishment and anger. He is shocked that Brutus has spoken of punishment in connection with him, as though he were a wrongdoer who deserved to be disciplined.

BRUTUS: “Remember March, the ides of March remember: Did not great Julius bleed for justice' sake? What villain touch'd his body, that did stab, And not for justice? What, shall one of us That struck the foremost man of all this world But for supporting robbers, shall we now Contaminate our fingers with base bribes, And sell the mighty space of our large honours For so much trash as may be grasped thus? I had rather be a dog, and bay the moon, Than such a Roman.”

Paraphrase: Brutus reminds Cassius of the Ides of March, the day on which Julius Caesar was assassinated. He asks whether Caesar was not killed in the name of justice and whether those who stabbed him did not believe that they were acting justly.

Brutus then questions how they, having struck down the most important man in the world because they believed he supported corrupt people, can now accept low and dishonourable bribes themselves. He argues that taking bribes would stain their hands with corruption and cause them to exchange their great honour and reputation for a small amount of money.

Brutus considers such conduct disgraceful. He declares that he would rather be a dog barking at the moon than a Roman who behaves in such a dishonourable way.

CASSIUS: “Brutus, bay not me; I'll not endure it: you forget yourself, To hedge me in; I am a soldier, I, Older in practise, abler than yourself To make conditions.”

Paraphrase: Cassius tells Brutus not to insult him by treating him as though he were a dog. He declares that he will not tolerate such treatment. He accuses Brutus of forgetting himself by attempting to restrict or control him. Cassius reminds Brutus that he is a soldier with greater practical experience and claims that he is more capable than Brutus of negotiating terms and making arrangements.

BRUTUS: “Go to; you are not, Cassius.”

Paraphrase: Brutus dismisses Cassius’s claim and tells him that he is not superior to Brutus in the ability he has just claimed.

CASSIUS: “I am.”

Paraphrase: Cassius firmly insists that he is more experienced and more capable than Brutus in the matter under discussion.

BRUTUS: “I say you are not.”

Paraphrase: Brutus repeats his disagreement and refuses to accept Cassius’s claim of superiority.

CASSIUS: “Urge me no more, I shall forget myself; Have mind upon your health, tempt me no further.”

Paraphrase: Cassius warns Brutus not to provoke him any further. He says that if Brutus continues to insult him, he may lose control of himself. He also tells Brutus to think about his own safety and stop testing Cassius’s patience.

BRUTUS: “Away, slight man!”

Paraphrase: Brutus contemptuously calls Cassius a petty or insignificant man. He dismisses Cassius’s threats and shows that he is not frightened by them.

CASSIUS: “Is't possible?”

Paraphrase: Cassius expresses astonishment and disbelief at Brutus’s behaviour. He finds it difficult to believe that Brutus is treating him with such contempt.

BRUTUS: “Hear me, for I will speak. Must I give way and room to your rash choler? Shall I be frighted when a madman stares?”

Paraphrase: Brutus insists that Cassius must listen because he intends to speak openly. He asks whether he is expected to give in simply because Cassius has become angry. He also asks whether he should be frightened merely because an angry man glares at him. Brutus makes it clear that Cassius’s temper will not silence or intimidate him.

CASSIUS: “O ye gods, ye gods! must I endure all this?”

Paraphrase: Cassius appeals to the gods in distress. He wonders whether he must continue to tolerate all these insults from Brutus. His words reveal his growing frustration and emotional pain.

BRUTUS: “All this! ay, more: fret till your proud heart break; Go show your slaves how choleric you are, And make your bondmen tremble. Must I budge? Must I observe you? must I stand and crouch Under your testy humour? By the gods You shall digest the venom of your spleen, Though it do split you; for, from this day forth, I'll use you for my mirth, yea, for my laughter, When you are waspish.”

Paraphrase: Brutus responds sarcastically to Cassius’s complaint. He says that Cassius may become even more angry if he wishes, until his proud heart is overwhelmed by his anger. Cassius may display his temper before his slaves and make his bondmen tremble, but Brutus will not be frightened by him.

Brutus asks whether he must step aside, obey Cassius, or humble himself before Cassius’s irritable nature. He declares that Cassius will have to bear the bitterness of his own anger, even if it causes him great distress. From that day onwards, Brutus says, he will treat Cassius’s angry outbursts as a source of amusement and laugh at him whenever he becomes irritable.

CASSIUS: “Is it come to this?”

Paraphrase: Cassius expresses sorrow and disbelief. He cannot believe that his relationship with Brutus has deteriorated so much that Brutus openly mocks him instead of treating him as a respected friend.

BRUTUS: “You say you are a better soldier: Let it appear so; make your vaunting true, And it shall please me well: for mine own part, I shall be glad to learn of noble men.”

Paraphrase: Brutus refers to Cassius’s claim about his military ability. He challenges Cassius to demonstrate through his actions that his boast is justified. Brutus adds that he would be pleased if Cassius proved himself capable, because he himself would gladly learn from noble and accomplished men.

CASSIUS: “You wrong me every way; you wrong me, Brutus; I said, an elder soldier, not a better: Did I say 'better'?”

Paraphrase: Cassius complains that Brutus is treating him unfairly and misrepresenting his words. He clarifies that he called himself a more experienced soldier, not a better soldier. He asks Brutus whether he actually used the word “better,” insisting that Brutus has misunderstood his statement.

BRUTUS: “If you did, I care not.”

Paraphrase: Brutus replies that he does not care whether Cassius used the word “better” or not. He refuses to attach importance to Cassius’s distinction between being older in military experience and being a better soldier.

CASSIUS: “When Caesar lived, he durst not thus have moved me.”

Paraphrase: Cassius declares that when Caesar was alive, Caesar would not have dared to provoke him in this manner. He implies that Brutus is now treating him with a disrespect that even Caesar would not have shown.

BRUTUS: “Peace, peace! you durst not so have tempted him.”

Paraphrase: Brutus tells Cassius to be quiet. He counters Cassius’s claim by saying that Cassius himself would not have dared to provoke Caesar in the way he is now claiming. Brutus challenges Cassius’s courage by suggesting that he would not have behaved so boldly towards Caesar.

CASSIUS: “I durst not!”

Paraphrase: Cassius repeats Brutus’s words in astonishment and indignation. He cannot accept the suggestion that he lacked the courage to challenge Caesar.

BRUTUS: “No.”

 Paraphrase: Brutus firmly confirms his accusation. He insists that Cassius would not have dared to provoke Caesar in that manner.

CASSIUS: “What, durst not tempt him!”

Paraphrase: Cassius again questions Brutus’s statement in disbelief. He is offended by the suggestion that he would have been afraid to provoke Caesar.

BRUTUS: “For your life you durst not!”

Paraphrase: Brutus emphatically declares that Cassius would not have dared to provoke Caesar, even if his own life had been at stake. He continues to challenge Cassius’s courage.

CASSIUS: “Do not presume too much upon my love; I may do that I shall be sorry for.”

Paraphrase: Cassius warns Brutus not to take his affection and friendship for granted. He says that Brutus’s continued insults may provoke him into doing something that he will later regret. His words indicate that his anger is becoming increasingly difficult to control.

BRUTUS: “You have done that you should be sorry for. There is no terror, Cassius, in your threats, For I am arm'd so strong in honesty That they pass by me as the idle wind, Which I respect not. I did send to you For certain sums of gold, which you denied me: For I can raise no money by vile means: By heaven, I had rather coin my heart, And drop my blood for drachmas, than to wring From the hard hands of peasants their vile trash By any indirection: I did send To you for gold to pay my legions, Which you denied me: was that done like Cassius? Should I have answer'd Caius Cassius so? When Marcus Brutus grows so covetous, To lock such rascal counters from his friends, Be ready, gods, with all your thunderbolts; Dash him to pieces!”

Paraphrase: Brutus tells Cassius that he has already behaved in a way he should regret. He declares that Cassius’s threats do not frighten him because his honesty gives him strength and confidence. He compares the threats to a passing wind that he does not consider worthy of attention.

Brutus then reminds Cassius that he had asked him for certain amounts of gold, but Cassius had refused him. Brutus explains that he cannot raise money through dishonest means. He swears that he would rather turn his own heart into coins and shed his blood in exchange for money than obtain money dishonestly from poor peasants.

He repeats that he requested gold from Cassius to pay his soldiers, but Cassius denied him the money. Brutus asks whether such conduct was worthy of Cassius and whether he himself would have answered Cassius in that manner.

Brutus then declares that if Marcus Brutus ever becomes so greedy that he refuses to share money with his friends, the gods should strike him down with their thunderbolts and destroy him. His words demonstrate his strong opposition to greed and his belief that he must remain honest even when he needs money.

CASSIUS: “I denied you not.”

Paraphrase: Cassius denies Brutus’s accusation. He insists that he did not refuse to provide the money Brutus had requested.

BRUTUS: “You did.”

Paraphrase: Brutus firmly contradicts Cassius. He maintains that Cassius did refuse his request for money.

CASSIUS: “I did not: he was but a fool that brought My answer back. Brutus hath rived my heart: A friend should bear his friend's infirmities, But Brutus makes mine greater than they are.”

Paraphrase: Cassius again denies refusing Brutus. He says that the person who carried his reply back to Brutus was a fool, implying that the messenger was responsible for the misunderstanding.

Cassius then declares that Brutus has broken his heart. He believes that a true friend should tolerate and overlook the weaknesses of another friend. However, instead of showing such understanding, Brutus magnifies Cassius’s faults and makes them appear worse than they actually are.

BRUTUS: “I do not, till you practise them on me.”

Paraphrase: Brutus replies that he does not exaggerate Cassius’s faults unless Cassius displays those faults in his dealings with him. He suggests that his criticism is based on Cassius’s own behaviour rather than on any desire to make his faults seem worse.

CASSIUS: “You love me not.”

Paraphrase: Cassius concludes that Brutus no longer loves him. He feels that Brutus’s criticism and harsh treatment demonstrate a lack of affection and friendship.

BRUTUS: “I do not like your faults.”

Paraphrase: Brutus clarifies that he does not approve of Cassius’s faults. He distinguishes between his feelings towards Cassius as a person and his disapproval of Cassius’s behaviour. His objection is to the faults themselves, not necessarily to Cassius as his friend.

CASSIUS: “A friendly eye could never see such faults.”

Paraphrase: Cassius argues that a genuinely friendly person would not notice or criticise so many faults in a friend. He believes that affection should make Brutus more tolerant and less critical of him.

BRUTUS: “A flatterer's would not, though they do appear As huge as high Olympus.”

Paraphrase: Brutus replies that a flatterer would refuse to acknowledge a person's faults, even if those faults were as enormous as Mount Olympus. He implies that a flatterer hides or ignores faults to please someone. Brutus believes that a true friend should be honest and should not conceal wrongdoing merely to avoid hurting the other person.

CASSIUS: “Come, Antony, and young Octavius, come, Revenge yourselves alone on Cassius, For Cassius is aweary of the world; Hated by one he loves; braved by his brother; Cheque'd like a bondman; all his faults observed, Set in a note-book, learn'd, and conn'd by rote, To cast into my teeth. O, I could weep My spirit from mine eyes! There is my dagger, And here my naked breast; within, a heart Dearer than Plutus' mine, richer than gold: If that thou be'st a Roman, take it forth; I, that denied thee gold, will give my heart: Strike, as thou didst at Caesar; for, I know, When thou didst hate him worst, thou lovedst him better Than ever thou lovedst Cassius.”

Paraphrase: Cassius becomes deeply distressed by Brutus’s treatment of him. He calls upon Antony and young Octavius to come and take revenge upon him. He declares that he is tired of the world because he feels hated by the person he loves. He also feels that Brutus, whom he regards as a brother, has challenged him, rebuked him and treated him like a slave.

Cassius complains that Brutus has carefully observed all his faults, recorded them in a notebook, memorised them and now repeatedly uses them against him. Cassius feels so hurt that he says he could weep his very spirit out through his eyes.

He then points to his dagger and his bare breast, where his heart lies. He describes his heart as more precious than the treasure in Plutus’s mine and richer than gold. He challenges Brutus, if he is truly a Roman, to take his heart. Cassius declares that although he denied Brutus gold, he is willing to give him his heart.

He asks Brutus to strike him as Brutus struck Caesar. Cassius then makes a painful comparison: he believes that even when Brutus hated Caesar most, Brutus loved Caesar more than he has ever loved Cassius. Through these words, Cassius expresses his emotional suffering and his feeling that Brutus’s affection for him is weaker than the affection Brutus once had for Caesar.

Overall meaning of the passage

The passage presents a bitter quarrel between Brutus and Cassius. It begins with their disagreement over Lucius Pella and the accusation of bribery. It develops into a personal conflict involving military experience, anger, threats, money and friendship. Brutus insists on honesty and refuses to tolerate corruption, while Cassius feels insulted and unfairly treated. By the end, Cassius’s anger gives way to deep emotional distress as he feels rejected by the friend he loves.

Multiple Choice Questions Set 1

1. Where does Act IV, Scene 3, Part 1 take place?

(A) Caesar’s palace (B) Brutus’ tent (C) The Roman Senate (D) The battlefield

Answer: (B) Brutus’ tent

2. Which two characters enter at the beginning of the scene?

(A) Brutus and Antony (B) Cassius and Octavius (C) Brutus and Cassius (D) Brutus and Lucius Pella

Answer: (C) Brutus and Cassius

3. What does Cassius say appears to show that Brutus has wronged him?

(A) Brutus has insulted him publicly. (B) Brutus has condemned and censured Lucius Pella. (C) Brutus has refused to lead the army. (D) Brutus has taken his money.

Answer: (B) Brutus has condemned and censured Lucius Pella.

4. Who is Lucius Pella?

(A) A Roman senator who supported Caesar (B) A soldier accused of taking bribes (C) A messenger sent by Antony (D) A servant of Brutus

Answer: (B) A soldier accused of taking bribes

5. What had Lucius Pella allegedly taken?

(A) Weapons from the Roman army (B) Gold from Brutus (C) Bribes (D) Letters from Caesar

Answer: (C) Bribes

6. How does Cassius describe Brutus’s action against Lucius Pella?

(A) As an act of kindness (B) As a wrong done to himself (C) As a necessary military victory (D) As a private joke

Answer: (B) As a wrong done to himself

7. What does Cassius say he had written to Brutus concerning Lucius Pella?

(A) A letter asking Brutus to pardon him (B) A letter praising his courage (C) A letter asking him to leave Rome (D) A letter inviting him to the Senate

Answer: (A) A letter asking Brutus to pardon him

8. How does Brutus respond to Cassius’s complaint about the letter?

(A) He says Cassius should have written more clearly. (B) He says Cassius has misunderstood him. (C) He says Cassius was wrong to write such a letter. (D) He promises to destroy the letter.

Answer: (C) He says Cassius was wrong to write such a letter.

9. According to Cassius, what kind of offence should not receive excessive criticism during such a time?

(A) A military defeat (B) Every minor offence (C) A betrayal by Caesar (D) A failure to obey the king

Answer: (B) Every minor offence

10. What does Brutus say about those who commit bribery?

(A) They should always be forgiven. (B) They should be rewarded for their service. (C) They should be punished. (D) They should be promoted in the army.

Answer: (C) They should be punished.

11. What does Brutus say about Cassius in connection with corruption?

(A) Cassius has no knowledge of corruption. (B) Cassius’s name honours corruption. (C) Cassius has publicly condemned corruption. (D) Cassius has been falsely accused of treason.

Answer: (B) Cassius’s name honours corruption.

12. What does Brutus accuse Cassius of having?

(A) An itching palm (B) A broken sword (C) A weak army (D) A dishonest messenger

Answer: (A) An itching palm

13. In the passage, what does the expression “itching palm” refer to?

(A) A physical injury (B) A desire to receive bribes (C) A soldier’s nervousness (D) A sign of illness

Answer: (B) A desire to receive bribes

14. Which historical date does Brutus ask Cassius to remember?

(A) The Ides of January (B) The Ides of March (C) The first of April (D) The last day of December

Answer: (B) The Ides of March

15. Why does Brutus remind Cassius of the Ides of March?

(A) To remind him of Caesar’s assassination and their principles (B) To remind him of a military celebration (C) To arrange a meeting with Antony (D) To announce the end of the war

Answer: (A) To remind him of Caesar’s assassination and their principles

16. What does Brutus say he would rather be than such a Roman?

(A) A lion roaring in the forest (B) A dog baying at the moon (C) A soldier fighting alone (D) A servant of Caesar

Answer: (B) A dog baying at the moon

17. How does Cassius describe himself in relation to military experience?

(A) Younger and less experienced than Brutus (B) An older soldier with more practice (C) A soldier who has never fought (D) A soldier who refuses to lead

Answer: (B) An older soldier with more practice

18. What does Cassius claim about his ability to make conditions?

(A) He is less able than Brutus. (B) He is equally inexperienced. (C) He is abler than Brutus. (D) He is unwilling to negotiate.

Answer: (C) He is abler than Brutus.

19. How does Brutus respond to Cassius’s angry behaviour?

(A) He immediately apologises. (B) He says he is frightened. (C) He refuses to be frightened by a madman’s stare. (D) He leaves the tent without speaking.

Answer: (C) He refuses to be frightened by a madman’s stare.

20. What does Brutus tell Cassius he must digest?

(A) The bitterness of defeat (B) The venom of his spleen (C) The loss of his soldiers (D) The shame of surrender

Answer: (B) The venom of his spleen

21. What distinction does Cassius make between being an older soldier and being a better soldier?

(A) He says an older soldier is always better. (B) He says he claimed to be older in experience, not better. (C) He says Brutus is younger but more experienced. (D) He says neither of them is a true soldier.

Answer: (B) He says he claimed to be older in experience, not better.

22. According to Cassius, how would Caesar have reacted to such behaviour from him while Caesar was alive?

(A) Caesar would have ignored him. (B) Caesar would have rewarded him. (C) Caesar would not have dared to move him in that manner. (D) Caesar would have asked Brutus to punish him.

Answer: (C) Caesar would not have dared to move him in that manner.

23. What does Brutus say about Cassius’s threats?

(A) They fill him with terror. (B) They are more powerful than Caesar’s threats. (C) They hold no terror for him. (D) They force him to leave Rome.

Answer: (C) They hold no terror for him.

24. What does Brutus say he would rather do than accept money dishonourably?

(A) Abandon the army (B) Coin his heart and drop his blood for drachmas (C) Sell his sword to Antony (D) Leave Rome permanently

Answer: (B) Coin his heart and drop his blood for drachmas

25. What does Cassius say a friend should bear?

(A) His friend’s wealth (B) His friend’s infirmities (C) His friend’s military rank (D) His friend’s enemies

Answer: (B) His friend’s infirmities

26. What does Brutus say about Cassius’s faults?

(A) He has never noticed them. (B) He likes and admires them. (C) He does not like them. (D) He considers them imaginary.

Answer: (C) He does not like them.

27. According to Brutus, what kind of person would not overlook such faults?

(A) A flatterer (B) A true friend (C) A loyal soldier (D) A Roman senator

Answer: (A) A flatterer

28. Which mountain does Brutus mention when describing the apparent size of faults?

(A) Mount Everest (B) Mount Olympus (C) Mount Etna (D) Mount Vesuvius

Answer: (B) Mount Olympus

29. Which two figures does Cassius call upon to come?

(A) Caesar and Pompey (B) Antony and young Octavius (C) Brutus and Lucius Pella (D) Cicero and Casca

Answer: (B) Antony and young Octavius

30. What does Cassius say should happen if Antony and Octavius come?

(A) They should be welcomed as guests. (B) They should judge the quarrel. (C) They should take revenge on Cassius alone. (D) They should arrest Brutus immediately.

Answer: (C) They should take revenge on Cassius alone.

31. What does Cassius offer Brutus during their quarrel?

(A) His sword and shield (B) His dagger and his naked breast (C) His military command (D) His gold and silver

Answer: (B) His dagger and his naked breast

32. What does Cassius invite Brutus to do with the dagger?

(A) Give it to Antony (B) Hide it in the tent (C) Take it out and strike him (D) Use it against Octavius

Answer: (C) Take it out and strike him

33. Whom does Cassius refer to when he tells Brutus to strike as he did before?

(A) Pompey (B) Caesar (C) Antony (D) Lucius Pella

Answer: (B) Caesar

34. What does Brutus ask Cassius about the way he has answered him?

(A) Whether he has answered him as a coward (B) Whether he should have answered Caius Cassius in that manner (C) Whether he should have left Rome (D) Whether he should have accepted the gold

Answer: (B) Whether he should have answered Caius Cassius in that manner

35. What does Brutus say should happen if he ever becomes covetous?

(A) The gods should reward him. (B) The gods should destroy him with their thunderbolts. (C) Cassius should forgive him. (D) Antony should become his judge.

Answer: (B) The gods should destroy him with their thunderbolts.

36. What does Cassius say about his love for Brutus?

(A) He has never loved Brutus. (B) His love for Brutus has always been false. (C) He is deeply affected by Brutus’s treatment of him. (D) He loves Antony more than Brutus.

Answer: (C) He is deeply affected by Brutus’s treatment of him.

37. What does Cassius say Brutus’s treatment of him has made him feel?

(A) Proud and victorious (B) Ashamed and sorrowful (C) Indifferent and unconcerned (D) Hopeful about Caesar’s return

Answer: (B) Ashamed and sorrowful

38. What does Brutus say about the relationship between friendship and faults?

(A) Friendship requires a person to approve every fault. (B) Friendship means a person should never speak honestly. (C) Friendship does not require him to like another person’s faults. (D) Friendship is impossible between soldiers.

Answer: (C) Friendship does not require him to like another person’s faults.

39. What does Cassius say a friendly eye could never do?

(A) Recognise a friend (B) See such faults (C) Read a letter (D) Judge a battle

Answer: (B) See such faults

40. What does Brutus say he requested from Cassius?

(A) A sword (B) Gold (C) A new army (D) A letter to Antony

Answer: (B) Gold

41. How does Brutus describe his need for gold?

(A) He needs it to buy a palace. (B) He needs it to pay his personal debts only. (C) He needs it for a purpose connected with their military affairs. (D) He needs it to reward Caesar’s supporters.

Answer: (C) He needs it for a purpose connected with their military affairs.

42. What does Cassius say about Brutus’s request for gold?

(A) He says Brutus never asked him. (B) He says he refused the request. (C) He says he sent the gold immediately. (D) He says Antony took the gold.

Answer: (B) He says he refused the request.

43. How does Brutus respond when Cassius denies refusing him?

(A) He accepts the denial without question. (B) He insists that Cassius did refuse him. (C) He accuses Antony of stealing the gold. (D) He ends the quarrel and leaves.

Answer: (B) He insists that Cassius did refuse him.

44. What does Cassius ask Brutus when their disagreement becomes painful?

(A) Whether Brutus hates him (B) Whether Brutus will leave the army (C) Whether Brutus has joined Antony (D) Whether Brutus has forgotten Caesar

Answer: (A) Whether Brutus hates him

45. What does Cassius say Brutus’s love would have prevented?

(A) His becoming a soldier (B) His seeing such faults in Cassius (C) His remembering Caesar (D) His asking for gold

Answer: (B) His seeing such faults in Cassius

46. What does Cassius offer Brutus if Brutus is truly a Roman?

(A) His military title (B) His dagger (C) His tent (D) His gold

Answer: (B) His dagger

47. What does Cassius expose when he offers Brutus his dagger?

(A) His wounded arm (B) His naked breast (C) His head (D) His back

Answer: (B) His naked breast

48. What does Cassius say Brutus should do if he still hates him?

(A) Leave the army (B) Strike him (C) Write to Antony (D) Return to Rome

Answer: (B) Strike him

49. What does Cassius say Brutus loved more than Cassius when Brutus hated him most?

(A) Pompey (B) Caesar (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (B) Caesar

50. How does Cassius compare Brutus’s love for Caesar with his love for Cassius?

(A) Brutus always loved Cassius more. (B) Brutus loved Caesar less than Cassius. (C) Brutus loved Caesar more than he ever loved Cassius. (D) Brutus loved both equally.

Answer: (C) Brutus loved Caesar more than he ever loved Cassius.

51. What does Cassius’s reference to Caesar reveal about the emotional force of their quarrel?

(A) Cassius is entirely unconcerned about Brutus. (B) Cassius feels deeply wounded by Brutus’s words. (C) Cassius wants to restore Caesar to power. (D) Cassius has decided to support Antony.

Answer: (B) Cassius feels deeply wounded by Brutus’s words.

52. Which character repeatedly appeals to Roman honour during the quarrel?

(A) Antony (B) Octavius (C) Brutus (D) Lucius Pella

Answer: (C) Brutus

53. Which character claims to be older in military practice?

(A) Brutus (B) Cassius (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (B) Cassius

54. Which character rejects the idea that threats can frighten him?

(A) Brutus (B) Cassius (C) Antony (D) Lucius Pella

Answer: (A) Brutus

55. Which character refers to his “itching palm”?

(A) Brutus, accusing Cassius of corruption (B) Cassius, accusing Brutus of corruption (C) Antony, accusing Octavius of corruption (D) Octavius, accusing Lucius Pella of treason

Answer: (A) Brutus, accusing Cassius of corruption

56. What does Brutus’s reference to the Ides of March remind Cassius of?

(A) A festival in Rome (B) Their involvement in Caesar’s assassination (C) A victory over Antony (D) The beginning of their friendship

Answer: (B) Their involvement in Caesar’s assassination

57. What does Cassius’s claim that he would not have been moved by Caesar suggest?

(A) He believes Caesar could intimidate everyone. (B) He believes Caesar treated him with greater respect than Brutus does. (C) He wishes Caesar were still alive to judge Brutus. (D) He believes Caesar was a better soldier than Brutus.

Answer: (B) He believes Caesar treated him with greater respect than Brutus does.

58. Which character describes the other’s anger as “rash choler”?

(A) Brutus, speaking to Cassius (B) Cassius, speaking to Brutus (C) Antony, speaking to Octavius (D) Octavius, speaking to Antony

Answer: (A) Brutus, speaking to Cassius

59. What does Brutus imply when he says that Cassius should digest the venom of his spleen?

(A) Cassius should control his anger. (B) Cassius should seek medical treatment. (C) Cassius should leave the battlefield. (D) Cassius should give up his military rank.

Answer: (A) Cassius should control his anger.

60. Which character says, “Away, slight man!”?

(A) Cassius (B) Brutus (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (B) Brutus

61. Which character says, “Brutus, bay not me; I’ll not endure it”?

(A) Brutus (B) Cassius (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (B) Cassius

62. What does Cassius’s reference to his heart and blood being exchanged for drachmas emphasise?

(A) His desire to become wealthy (B) His willingness to suffer rather than accept dishonourable money (C) His intention to sell his military equipment (D) His belief that Brutus is poor

Answer: (B) His willingness to suffer rather than accept dishonourable money

63. Which character says that a friend should bear a friend’s infirmities?

(A) Brutus (B) Cassius (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (B) Cassius

64. What does the word “infirmities” refer to in Cassius’s statement about friendship?

(A) Physical weapons (B) Personal weaknesses or faults (C) Military victories (D) Financial rewards

Answer: (B) Personal weaknesses or faults

65. What does Brutus say about a flatterer’s response to faults?

(A) A flatterer always condemns them openly. (B) A flatterer may fail to reveal them honestly. (C) A flatterer never notices them. (D) A flatterer immediately leaves a friend.

Answer: (B) A flatterer may fail to reveal them honestly.

66. Which character mentions Mount Olympus?

(A) Cassius (B) Brutus (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (B) Brutus

67. Why does Brutus refer to faults as being as huge as high Olympus?

(A) To describe the height of the tent (B) To emphasise that even great faults should be recognised honestly (C) To praise Cassius’s military achievements (D) To compare Rome with Greece

Answer: (B) To emphasise that even great faults should be recognised honestly

68. Which two characters are addressed in Cassius’s call for Antony and young Octavius to come?

(A) Brutus and Lucius Pella (B) Antony and Octavius (C) Caesar and Pompey (D) Cicero and Casca

Answer: (B) Antony and Octavius

69. What does Cassius ask Antony and Octavius to do regarding him?

(A) Reward him (B) Punish Brutus instead (C) Take revenge on him alone (D) Make him consul

Answer: (C) Take revenge on him alone

70. What does Cassius’s offer of his dagger and breast indicate?

(A) He is trying to frighten Brutus with a weapon. (B) He is making an emotional appeal and challenging Brutus to strike him. (C) He is preparing to attack Antony. (D) He is surrendering his military command to Octavius.

Answer: (B) He is making an emotional appeal and challenging Brutus to strike him.

71. Which character refers to Caesar when challenging Brutus to strike?

(A) Brutus (B) Cassius (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (B) Cassius

72. What does Brutus’s question about how he answered Caius Cassius suggest?

(A) He is beginning to reflect on his harsh treatment of Cassius. (B) He has decided to join Antony. (C) He regrets taking part in Caesar’s assassination. (D) He intends to abandon the army.

Answer: (A) He is beginning to reflect on his harsh treatment of Cassius.

73. What does Brutus invoke when declaring what should happen if he becomes covetous?

(A) The Roman Senate (B) The gods and their thunderbolts (C) Antony’s army (D) Caesar’s ghost

Answer: (B) The gods and their thunderbolts

74. What quality does Brutus reject when he declares that the gods should destroy him if he possesses it?

(A) Courage (B) Covetousness (C) Loyalty (D) Patience

Answer: (B) Covetousness

75. What does Cassius’s emotional response reveal about his relationship with Brutus?

(A) He regards Brutus as an unimportant acquaintance. (B) He values Brutus’s friendship and is hurt by the quarrel. (C) He wants to replace Brutus as commander. (D) He has decided to betray Brutus to Antony.

Answer: (B) He values Brutus’s friendship and is hurt by the quarrel.

76. What is the central cause of the initial quarrel between Brutus and Cassius?

(A) Their disagreement over Caesar’s military plans (B) Brutus’s condemnation of Lucius Pella and Cassius’s objection to it (C) Their dispute over Antony’s appointment (D) Their competition for the Roman throne

Answer: (B) Brutus’s condemnation of Lucius Pella and Cassius’s objection to it

77. Which character argues that minor offences should not all be criticised during a difficult time?

(A) Brutus (B) Cassius (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (B) Cassius

78. Which character insists on punishing corruption despite the circumstances?

(A) Brutus (B) Cassius (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (A) Brutus

79. Which character’s language shows his anger through references to a dog and the moon?

(A) Cassius (B) Brutus (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (B) Brutus

80. Which character defends his experience as a soldier during the quarrel?

(A) Lucius Pella (B) Cassius (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (B) Cassius

81. What does Cassius say about his military experience in comparison with Brutus’s?

(A) He has less practical experience. (B) He is older in practice and abler to make conditions. (C) He has never commanded soldiers. (D) He refuses to compare their abilities.

Answer: (B) He is older in practice and abler to make conditions.

82. Which character refuses to be intimidated by the other’s stare?

(A) Cassius (B) Brutus (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (B) Brutus

83. What does the quarrel reveal about Brutus’s attitude towards public integrity?

(A) He believes bribery is acceptable during wartime. (B) He insists that honour and integrity should be maintained. (C) He believes soldiers should never be judged. (D) He believes personal loyalty is more important than every principle.

Answer: (B) He insists that honour and integrity should be maintained.

84. Which character says he would rather be a dog baying at the moon than a certain kind of Roman?

(A) Cassius (B) Brutus (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (B) Brutus

85. What does Cassius’s complaint about the letter demonstrate?

(A) He believes Brutus has disregarded his advice. (B) He believes Brutus has stolen his property. (C) He believes Antony has forged his signature. (D) He believes Octavius has betrayed him.

Answer: (A) He believes Brutus has disregarded his advice.

86. Which character links the issue of bribery with Cassius’s personal conduct?

(A) Brutus (B) Cassius (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (A) Brutus

87. What does the mention of the Ides of March contribute to the quarrel?

(A) It introduces a new military campaign. (B) It recalls the moral seriousness of their involvement in Caesar’s assassination. (C) It establishes the date of Lucius Pella’s trial. (D) It announces a festival in Rome.

Answer: (B) It recalls the moral seriousness of their involvement in Caesar’s assassination.

88. Which character says there is no terror in the other’s threats?

(A) Cassius (B) Brutus (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (B) Brutus

89. What does Cassius’s statement about a friend bearing infirmities suggest about his expectations of friendship?

(A) Friends should tolerate and understand one another’s weaknesses. (B) Friends should never disagree. (C) Friends should conceal every offence from the law. (D) Friends should always provide money on demand.

Answer: (A) Friends should tolerate and understand one another’s weaknesses.

90. What does Brutus’s statement about not liking Cassius’s faults demonstrate?

(A) He refuses to distinguish friendship from honesty. (B) He believes that genuine friendship permits honest criticism. (C) He has ended their friendship permanently. (D) He believes Cassius has no good qualities.

Answer: (B) He believes that genuine friendship permits honest criticism.

91. Which character makes an appeal involving Antony and young Octavius?

(A) Brutus (B) Cassius (C) Lucius Pella (D) Caesar

Answer: (B) Cassius

92. What does Cassius’s offer of his dagger reveal about the intensity of the quarrel?

(A) The disagreement has become deeply emotional. (B) Cassius wants to celebrate a military victory. (C) Cassius intends to hand the dagger to Antony. (D) Brutus has already left the tent.

Answer: (A) The disagreement has become deeply emotional.

93. Which character invokes the gods’ thunderbolts as a punishment for possible covetousness?

(A) Cassius (B) Brutus (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (B) Brutus

94. What does Brutus’s declaration about covetousness reinforce?

(A) His desire for wealth (B) His claim to personal honesty and freedom from greed (C) His wish to become Caesar (D) His willingness to accept bribes

Answer: (B) His claim to personal honesty and freedom from greed

95. Which character feels that Brutus has treated him without the respect he deserves?

(A) Antony (B) Cassius (C) Octavius (D) Lucius Pella

Answer: (B) Cassius

96. What is Cassius’s main emotional concern during the later part of the quarrel?

(A) Losing his military equipment (B) Losing Brutus’s affection and friendship (C) Being forced to leave Rome (D) Being denied a position by Antony

Answer: (B) Losing Brutus’s affection and friendship

97. Which character reminds the other of his greater love for Caesar in the past?

(A) Brutus (B) Cassius (C) Antony (D) Octavius

Answer: (B) Cassius

98. What does Cassius’s final comparison between Caesar and himself express?

(A) Brutus respected Cassius more than Caesar. (B) Brutus’s love for Caesar had exceeded his love for Cassius. (C) Cassius had always hated Caesar more than Brutus did. (D) Brutus had never loved Caesar.

Answer: (B) Brutus’s love for Caesar had exceeded his love for Cassius.

99. Which two themes are especially prominent in the passage?

(A) Romantic love and supernatural mystery (B) Honour and friendship (C) Exploration and discovery (D) Rural life and nature

Answer: (B) Honour and friendship

100. What is the main focus of this part of Act IV, Scene 3?

(A) Caesar’s rise to power (B) Antony’s victory in battle (C) The conflict between Brutus and Cassius over corruption, honour and friendship (D) The election of a new Roman ruler

Answer: (C) The conflict between Brutus and Cassius over corruption, honour and friendship

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS — SET 2

1. What does Cassius’s complaint about Brutus’s treatment of Lucius Pella reveal about his expectations of Brutus?

(A) He expects Brutus to follow his personal advice in dealing with Pella. (B) He expects Brutus to dismiss every soldier accused of wrongdoing. (C) He expects Brutus to surrender his command. (D) He expects Brutus to support Antony.

Answer: (A)

2. Why does Brutus refuse to treat the accusation of bribery as a minor offence?

(A) He believes military experience excuses corruption. (B) He considers integrity essential, even during a crisis. (C) He wants to remove Cassius from the army. (D) He wishes to restore Caesar’s authority.

Answer: (B)

3. What is the main difference between Brutus’s and Cassius’s positions concerning Lucius Pella?

(A) Brutus prioritises integrity, whereas Cassius objects to the way Pella has been dealt with. (B) Brutus wants Pella to command the army, whereas Cassius wants him imprisoned. (C) Brutus supports bribery, whereas Cassius opposes it. (D) Brutus wants Pella to join Antony, whereas Cassius wants him to join Octavius.

Answer: (A)

4. Why does Cassius refer to his military experience during the argument?

(A) To explain why he should be allowed to accept bribes (B) To assert his experience and challenge Brutus’s treatment of him (C) To announce that he will retire from military service (D) To prove that Antony is an inexperienced soldier

Answer: (B)

5. What does Brutus’s response to Cassius’s threats show about his attitude towards confrontation?

(A) He is easily intimidated by Cassius. (B) He is determined not to be controlled by intimidation. (C) He wishes to avoid every disagreement. (D) He accepts Cassius’s superiority without question.

Answer: (B)

6. Why does the disagreement become more personal as it develops?

(A) Both men begin discussing their families. (B) Their dispute expands from public integrity to insults, personal respect and friendship. (C) Antony enters and accuses them of treason. (D) Octavius orders them to surrender.

Answer: (B)

7. What does Cassius’s appeal to Brutus’s friendship suggest he wants from him?

(A) Wealth without conditions (B) Understanding and consideration despite his faults (C) Permission to abandon the army (D) Authority over all Roman soldiers

Answer: (B)

8. Why is the request for gold important in the quarrel?

(A) It introduces a specific disagreement about whether Cassius refused Brutus’s request. (B) It proves that Brutus has accepted a bribe. (C) It establishes that Antony has stolen the army’s money. (D) It ends the dispute before it becomes personal.

Answer: (A)

9. Which sequence correctly represents the opening development of the quarrel?

(A) Cassius complains about Pella → Brutus defends his action → the argument turns to bribery and integrity. (B) Brutus requests gold → Cassius offers his dagger → Cassius complains about Pella. (C) Antony enters → Brutus condemns Cassius → Octavius arrives. (D) Cassius apologises → Brutus asks for gold → both leave the tent.

Answer: (A)

10. Which event occurs before Cassius offers Brutus his dagger?

(A) Cassius expresses his disagreement over Pella’s treatment. (B) Antony defeats Brutus in battle. (C) Octavius orders Cassius to leave Rome. (D) Brutus crowns Cassius as ruler.

Answer: (A)

11. Which sequence best reflects the progression of the argument?

(A) Disagreement over Pella → exchange of insults and threats → discussion of gold and friendship → emotional appeal (B) Emotional appeal → arrival of Antony → dispute over Pella → military celebration (C) Request for gold → Caesar’s return → accusation against Octavius → reconciliation (D) Military celebration → request for gold → departure of Cassius → arrival of Pella

Answer: (A)

12. Which event is associated with Cassius’s most direct physical challenge to Brutus?

(A) His reference to the Ides of March (B) His offering of the dagger and his naked breast (C) His claim to greater military practice (D) His complaint about the letter

Answer: (B)

13. Which development follows the exchange about Cassius’s faults and Brutus’s expectations of friendship?

(A) Cassius makes an emotional appeal involving his dagger and breast. (B) Caesar returns to the Senate. (C) Lucius Pella enters and confesses. (D) Antony appoints Brutus as consul.

Answer: (A)

14. In “I had rather be a dog, and bay the moon,” which literary device is most clearly used?

(A) Simile (B) Personification (C) Pun (D) Onomatopoeia

Answer: (A)

15. In the expression “itching palm,” the physical sensation is used to suggest which idea?

(A) Physical exhaustion (B) Greed or a desire for bribes (C) Fear of battle (D) A desire for sleep

Answer: (B)

16. In “the venom of your spleen,” which device is most evident?

(A) Metaphorical language (B) Onomatopoeia (C) A literal medical description (D) A rhetorical question

Answer: (A)

17. What is the effect of Cassius offering his dagger and exposing his breast?

(A) It creates a dramatic image of emotional vulnerability and challenge. (B) It provides a humorous description of military equipment. (C) It establishes that the quarrel has already ended peacefully. (D) It shows that Brutus has surrendered his command.

Answer: (A)

18. In the reference to faults as huge as high Olympus, which device is used?

(A) Hyperbole (B) Onomatopoeia (C) Pun (D) Alliteration alone

Answer: (A)

19. What is the dramatic effect of Cassius invoking Antony and young Octavius during the quarrel?

(A) It makes the conflict seem more emotionally intense and exposes Cassius’s distress. (B) It confirms that Antony and Octavius are physically present in the tent. (C) It changes the scene into a celebration. (D) It proves that Brutus has joined their side.

Answer: (A)

20. In the phrase “coin my heart,” what does the figurative expression suggest?

(A) Turning personal suffering into money (B) Making coins out of a real heart (C) Creating a new Roman currency (D) Selling a weapon to the army

Answer: (A)

For Questions 21–25, choose the correct option:

(A) Both Statement I and Statement II are true, and Statement II correctly explains Statement I. (B) Both statements 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.

21. Statement I: Brutus treats the accusation of bribery seriously.

Statement II: He believes that corruption should not be excused merely because the times are difficult.

(A) (B) (C) (D)

Answer: (A)

22. Statement I: Cassius feels personally insulted by Brutus’s action against Lucius Pella.

Statement II: Cassius believes that Brutus has disregarded his written appeal concerning Pella.

(A) (B) (C) (D)

Answer: (A)

23. Statement I: Cassius uses his military experience to support his position in the quarrel.

Statement II: He claims to be older in practice and abler to make conditions.

(A) (B) (C) (D)

Answer: (A)

24. Statement I: Brutus believes that genuine friendship requires him to approve all of Cassius’s faults.

Statement II: Brutus argues that honest criticism is compatible with friendship.

(A) (B) (C) (D)

Answer: (D)

25. Statement I: Cassius’s dagger appeal is purely a discussion of military strategy.

Statement II: He offers his dagger and breast during an emotionally charged disagreement with Brutus.

(A) (B) (C) (D)

Answer: (D)

For Questions 26–30, choose:

(A) I and II only (B) I and III only (C) II and III only (D) I, II and III

26. Which statements about Brutus are supported by the extract?

I. He objects to corruption. II. He refuses to be intimidated by Cassius’s threats. III. He says he does not like Cassius’s faults.

(A) (B) (C) (D)

Answer: (D)

27. Which statements about Cassius are supported by the extract?

I. He objects to Brutus’s treatment of Lucius Pella. II. He claims greater military experience in practice. III. He appeals emotionally to Brutus during their quarrel.

(A) (B) (C) (D)

Answer: (D)

28. Which statements about the conflict are correct?

I. It begins with a disagreement involving Lucius Pella. II. It includes arguments about honour and personal respect. III. It develops into an emotional appeal involving a dagger.

(A) (B) (C) (D)

Answer: (D)

29. Which statements about friendship are supported by the dialogue?

I. Cassius expects a friend to bear a friend’s weaknesses. II. Brutus believes that a friend may honestly criticise faults. III. Both characters express concern about their relationship.

(A) (B) (C) (D)

Answer: (D)

30. Which statements about the language of the extract are correct?

I. The dog and moon image expresses Brutus’s contempt. II. “Itching palm” is associated with bribery. III. The dagger appeal intensifies the dramatic conflict.

(A) (B) (C) (D)

Answer: (D)

31. What is Brutus’s dominant mood when he condemns corruption?

(A) Indifference (B) Moral indignation (C) Amusement (D) Fear

Answer: (B)

32. What emotion is most evident when Cassius complains that Brutus has wronged him?

(A) Resentment (B) Delight (C) Relief (D) Boredom

Answer: (A)

33. What is the effect of Brutus’s refusal to fear Cassius’s threats?

(A) It increases the confrontational tone. (B) It makes Brutus appear frightened. (C) It immediately resolves the dispute. (D) It changes the subject to comedy.

Answer: (A)

34. Which emotion is most strongly conveyed by Cassius’s offer of his dagger?

(A) Emotional anguish (B) Satisfaction (C) Curiosity (D) Indifference

Answer: (A)

35. What feeling underlies Cassius’s comparison of Brutus’s love for Caesar with his love for Cassius?

(A) Jealousy and hurt (B) Pride in military victory (C) Happiness at Caesar’s death (D) Relief at being dismissed

Answer: (A)

36. Which statement is NOT TRUE according to the extract?

(A) Cassius objects to Brutus’s treatment of Lucius Pella. (B) Brutus insists on the importance of integrity. (C) Brutus says that Cassius’s threats fill him with terror. (D) Cassius claims to be older in military practice.

Answer: (C)

37. Which statement is NOT TRUE about Cassius’s position?

(A) He complains that Brutus has wronged him. (B) He refers to his military experience. (C) He appeals to Brutus’s friendship. (D) He claims that he has never valued Brutus’s friendship.

Answer: (D)

38. Which statement is NOT TRUE about Brutus’s attitude?

(A) He criticises corruption. (B) He rejects intimidation. (C) He says he likes all of Cassius’s faults. (D) He connects honesty with friendship.

Answer: (C)

39. Which statement is NOT TRUE about the dagger episode?

(A) Cassius presents his dagger to Brutus. (B) Cassius exposes his breast. (C) Cassius challenges Brutus to strike him. (D) Cassius asks Brutus to use the dagger against Antony.

Answer: (D)

40. What does “condemn’d” mean in the context of the extract?

(A) Praised (B) Judged or declared blameworthy (C) Welcomed (D) Rewarded

Answer: (B)

41. What does “censured” mean?

(A) Criticised or formally disapproved of (B) Comforted (C) Promoted (D) Entertained

Answer: (A)

42. What does “choler” mean?

(A) Anger (B) Kindness (C) Wisdom (D) Sorrow

Answer: (A)

43. What does “infirmities” mean in Cassius’s statement about friendship?

(A) Weaknesses or faults (B) Rewards (C) Victories (D) Possessions

Answer: (A)

44. What does “covetous” mean?

(A) Generous (B) Greedy or excessively desirous of wealth (C) Fearful (D) Forgiving

Answer: (B)

45. What does “drachmas” refer to in Brutus’s speech?

(A) Ancient units or coins of money (B) Roman military ranks (C) Weapons (D) Religious ceremonies

Answer: (A)

46. What does “flatterer” mean?

(A) Someone who praises another insincerely to please or gain favour (B) Someone who openly criticises everyone (C) Someone who refuses to speak (D) Someone who commands an army

Answer: (A)

47. What does “spleen” suggest in the expression “the venom of your spleen”?

(A) Anger or ill temper (B) Generosity (C) Military courage (D) Physical strength

Answer: (A)

48. What does “bay” mean in the expression “bay the moon”?

(A) Bark or howl at (B) Protect (C) Follow silently (D) Praise

Answer: (A)

49. What does “presume” mean in Cassius’s warning not to presume too much upon his love?

(A) Take something for granted or act with unwarranted confidence (B) Apologise sincerely (C) Forget an offence (D) Make a written request

Answer: (A)

50. What does “vanity” mean in the expression concerning love and vanity in the supplied extract?

(A) Excessive pride or self-admiration (B) Honesty (C) Compassion (D) Fear of danger

Answer: (A)

A. Who said the following?

1. “That you have wrong'd me doth appear in this.”

Ans. Cassius.

2. “You wronged yourself to write in such a case.”

Ans. Brutus.

3. “In such a time as this it is not meet / That every nice offence should bear his comment.”

Ans. Cassius.

4. “Are much condemn'd to have an itching palm.”

Ans. Brutus.

5. “The name of Cassius honours this corruption.”

Ans. Brutus.

6. “Remember March, the ides of March remember.”

Ans. Brutus.

7. “I had rather be a dog, and bay the moon, / Than such a Roman.”

Ans. Brutus.

8. “I am a soldier, I, / Older in practise, abler than yourself / To make conditions.”

Ans. Cassius.

9. “Must I be frighted when a madman stares?”

Ans. Brutus.

10. “You shall digest the venom of your spleen.”

Ans. Brutus.

11. “I said, an elder soldier, not a better.”

Ans. Cassius.

12. “When Caesar lived, he durst not thus have moved me.”

Ans. Cassius.

13. “There is no terror, Cassius, in your threats.”

Ans. Brutus.

14. “By heaven, I had rather coin my heart, / And drop my blood for drachmas.”

Ans. Brutus.

15. “A friend should bear his friend's infirmities.”

Ans. Cassius.

16. “I do not like your faults.”

Ans. Brutus.

17. “A flatterer's would not, though they do appear / As huge as high Olympus.”

Ans. Brutus.

18. “Come, Antony, and young Octavius, come.”

Ans. Cassius.

19. “There is my dagger, / And here my naked breast.”

Ans. Cassius.

20. “When thou didst hate him worst, thou lovedst him better / Than ever thou lovedst Cassius.”

Ans. Cassius.

B. Who said the following to whom?

21. “You yourself are much condemn'd to have an itching palm.”

Ans. Brutus said this to Cassius.

22. “Brutus, bay not me; / I'll not endure it.”

Ans. Cassius said this to Brutus.

23. “Go to; you are not, Cassius.”

Ans. Brutus said this to Cassius.

24. “Urge me no more, I shall forget myself; / Have mind upon your health, tempt me no further.”

Ans. Cassius said this to Brutus.

25. “Away, slight man!”

Ans. Brutus said this to Cassius.

26. “Must I give way and room to your rash choler?”

Ans. Brutus said this to Cassius.

27. “Is it come to this?”

Ans. Cassius said this to Brutus.

28. “You say you are a better soldier: / Let it appear so; make your vaunting true.”

Ans. Brutus said this to Cassius.

29. “Do not presume too much upon my love.”

Ans. Cassius said this to Brutus.

30. “Which you denied me: was that done like Cassius?”

Ans. Brutus said this to Cassius.

31. “I denied you not.”

Ans. Cassius said this to Brutus.

32. “You did.”

Ans. Brutus said this to Cassius.

33. “You love me not.”

Ans. Cassius said this to Brutus.

34. “A friendly eye could never see such faults.”

Ans. Cassius said this to Brutus.

35. “If that thou be'st a Roman, take it forth.”

Ans. Cassius said this to Brutus.

36. “Strike, as thou didst at Caesar.”

Ans. Cassius said this to Brutus.

37. “Should I have answer'd Caius Cassius so?”

Ans. Brutus said this while addressing Cassius.

38. “Be ready, gods, with all your thunderbolts; / Dash him to pieces!”

Ans. Brutus said this, referring to himself if he ever became covetous.

39. “Revenge yourselves alone on Cassius.”

Ans. Cassius said this while appealing to Antony and young Octavius.

40. “If you did, I care not.”

Ans. Brutus said this to Cassius.

One-Mark Questions

1. Where does Act IV, Scene 3, Part 1 take place?

Ans. It takes place in Brutus’ tent.

2. Who are the two principal characters in this passage?

Ans. Brutus and Cassius.

3. What does Cassius accuse Brutus of doing to him?

Ans. Cassius accuses Brutus of wronging him.

4. Whom had Brutus condemned and publicly disgraced?

Ans. He had condemned and disgraced Lucius Pella.

5. Why had Lucius Pella been condemned?

Ans. He had been accused of taking bribes from the Sardians.

6. Who were the Sardians?

Ans. They were the people of Sardis.

7. What had Cassius written to Brutus regarding Lucius Pella?

Ans. He had written letters requesting Brutus to support Pella.

8. Why had Cassius written in favour of Lucius Pella?

Ans. He knew Pella personally.

9. How had Brutus responded to Cassius’ letters?

Ans. He had disregarded them.

10. What does Cassius’ opening speech reveal about his feelings?

Ans. It reveals his resentment at Brutus’ treatment of him.

11. How does Brutus respond to Cassius’ accusation?

Ans. He says Cassius has wronged himself by writing such a letter.

12. What does Cassius mean by a “nice offence”?

Ans. He means a minor or overly scrupulously judged offence.

13. Why does Cassius think every minor offence should not be investigated?

Ans. He believes the difficult circumstances of the time require some tolerance.

14. What does Brutus accuse Cassius of having?

Ans. He accuses Cassius of having an “itching palm.”

15. What does the expression “itching palm” suggest?

Ans. It suggests greed for money or a willingness to accept bribes.

16. What does Brutus accuse Cassius of selling for gold?

Ans. He accuses him of selling public offices to undeserving people.

17. How does Cassius react to Brutus’ accusation of corruption?

Ans. He becomes furious and threatens Brutus.

18. Why does Cassius restrain himself from attacking Brutus immediately?

Ans. He recognises that Brutus is the person speaking and warns him that otherwise the speech would be his last.

19. What does Brutus say about Cassius’ reputation?

Ans. He says Cassius’ honoured name conceals his corruption.

20. Why does Brutus mention chastisement?

Ans. He suggests that Cassius’ reputation protects him from punishment.

21. What historical event does Brutus ask Cassius to remember?

Ans. He asks him to remember the Ides of March.

22. What happened to Julius Caesar on the Ides of March?

Ans. Caesar was assassinated by conspirators, including Brutus and Cassius.

23. According to Brutus, why had Caesar been killed? Ans. The conspirators claimed that they killed him for the sake of justice.

24. What question does Brutus ask about the men who stabbed Caesar?

Ans. He asks which of them stabbed Caesar without claiming to act for justice.

25. What does Brutus say about taking bribes after killing Caesar?

Ans. He says it would be disgraceful to accept bribes after claiming to defend justice.

26. What does Brutus mean by “base bribes”?

Ans. He means dishonourable payments accepted for personal gain.

27. What does Brutus mean by “the mighty space of our large honours”?

Ans. He means the great honour and reputation enjoyed by the conspirators.

28. What does Brutus suggest the conspirators would exchange their honour for?

Ans. He suggests they would exchange it for worthless money.

29. What does Brutus mean by “trash” in this context?

Ans. He means money considered worthless compared with honour.

30. Which animal does Brutus say he would rather be than a corrupt Roman?

Ans. He says he would rather be a dog.

31. What would the dog do, according to Brutus?

Ans. It would bay at the moon.

32. What does Brutus’ comparison of himself to a dog emphasise?

Ans. It emphasises his contempt for corruption and his commitment to honour.

33. What does Brutus’ speech reveal about his moral principles?

Ans. He values honesty and honour above money and personal advantage.

34. How does Cassius respond when Brutus insults him?

Ans. He tells Brutus not to provoke him.

35. What does Cassius accuse Brutus of forgetting?

Ans. He accuses Brutus of forgetting himself and overstepping his limits.

36. How does Cassius describe himself as a soldier?

Ans. He describes himself as older in military experience and more capable of making terms.

37. What does Cassius mean by being “older in practice”?

Ans. He means that he has greater experience in military affairs.

38. What does Brutus say in response to Cassius’ claim of superiority?

Ans. He declares that Cassius is not superior to him.

39. How does Cassius react when Brutus denies his claim?

Ans. He insists that he is right and warns Brutus not to provoke him further.

40. What does Cassius tell Brutus to consider before provoking him again?

Ans. He tells Brutus to consider his own safety.

41. How does Brutus insult Cassius after the warning?

Ans. He calls Cassius a “slight man.”

42. What does Cassius’ question “Is’t possible?” express?

Ans. It expresses his disbelief at Brutus’ insulting treatment of him.

43. What does Brutus say about Cassius’ anger?

Ans. He refuses to be frightened by Cassius’ angry behaviour.

44. Whom does Brutus compare Cassius to when he becomes angry?

Ans. He compares him to a madman.

45. How does Cassius react to Brutus’ continued insults?

Ans. He appeals to the gods and complains about having to endure them.

46. What does Brutus tell Cassius to do with his anger?

Ans. He tells him to fret until his proud heart breaks.

47. Whom does Brutus say Cassius should frighten with his anger?

Ans. He says Cassius should frighten his slaves and bondmen.

48. What does Brutus refuse to do before Cassius?

Ans. He refuses to yield, obey, or crouch before Cassius’ temper.

49. What does Brutus mean by “testy humour”?

Ans. He means Cassius’ irritable and easily provoked temperament.

50. What does Brutus threaten to do when Cassius becomes angry?

Ans. He threatens to treat Cassius’ anger as a source of amusement.

51. What does “waspish” mean in this context?

 Ans. It means irritable, quick-tempered, or easily angered.

52. What does Cassius’ question “Is it come to this?” reveal?

Ans. It reveals his shock at the deterioration of their friendship.

53. What does Brutus challenge Cassius to prove?

Ans. He challenges Cassius to prove that he is the better soldier.

54. What does Brutus say about learning from noble men?

Ans. He says he would gladly learn from noble men.

55. How does Cassius correct Brutus’ interpretation of his words?

Ans. He says he had called himself an older soldier, not a better one.

56. What does Cassius ask Brutus after correcting him?

Ans. He asks whether he had actually said “better.”

57. How does Brutus respond to Cassius’ question?

Ans. He says that he does not care whether Cassius said it or not.

58. Whom does Cassius mention as someone who would not have tolerated such treatment? Ans. He mentions Julius Caesar.

59. What does Cassius claim Caesar would not have dared to do?

Ans. He claims Caesar would not have dared to provoke him in that way.

60. How does Brutus counter Cassius’ claim about Caesar?

Ans. He says Cassius would not have dared to provoke Caesar.

61. How does Cassius react when Brutus says he would not have dared to provoke Caesar? Ans. He expresses disbelief and challenges Brutus’ assertion.

62. What does Brutus say when Cassius asks whether he would not have dared?

Ans. He simply answers, “No.”

63. What does Cassius ask Brutus to clarify?

Ans. He asks whether Brutus means he would not have dared to provoke Caesar.

64. What does Brutus say Cassius would not have risked?

Ans. He says Cassius would not have risked his life by provoking Caesar.

65. What does Cassius warn Brutus not to presume upon?

Ans. He warns him not to presume too much upon his love.

66. What does Cassius suggest he might do if further provoked?

Ans. He suggests he might do something he would later regret.

67. How does Brutus respond to Cassius’ threat?

Ans. He says Cassius has already done something he should regret.

68. What does Brutus say about Cassius’ threats? Ans. He says they do not frighten him.

69. What makes Brutus fearless of Cassius’ threats?

Ans. His strong sense of honesty protects him from fear.

70. What does Brutus compare Cassius’ threats to?

Ans. He compares them to an idle wind.

71. What does the expression “idle wind” suggest?

Ans. It suggests something powerless and unworthy of attention.

72. Why had Brutus previously sent a message to Cassius?

Ans. He had asked Cassius for certain sums of gold.

73. Why did Brutus need the gold? Ans. He needed it to pay his legions.

74. Why could Brutus not raise money by himself through dishonest means? Ans. His principles prevented him from obtaining money through corruption.

75. What does Brutus say he would rather do than obtain money dishonestly?

Ans. He says he would rather coin his heart and shed his blood for money.

76. What does the expression “coin my heart” suggest?

Ans. It suggests an extreme willingness to sacrifice himself rather than act dishonestly.

77. What does Brutus mean by “drop my blood for drachmas”?

Ans. He means he would rather sacrifice his own blood than obtain money dishonestly.

78. Whose money does Brutus refuse to obtain by force or dishonest means?

Ans. He refuses to exploit the peasants.

79. What does Brutus mean by “the hard hands of peasants”?

Ans. He refers to the hardworking peasants who earn their living through labour.

80. What does Brutus mean by “indirection”?

Ans. He means dishonest or underhand methods.

81. What does Brutus repeat about his request to Cassius?

Ans. He repeats that he had asked Cassius for gold to pay his legions.

82. What does Brutus ask Cassius about refusing his request?

Ans. He asks whether such a refusal was worthy of Cassius.

83. What does Brutus ask the gods to do if he becomes covetous?

Ans. He asks them to strike him to pieces with their thunderbolts.

84. What does “covetous” mean?

Ans. It means excessively greedy for money or possessions.

85. What does Brutus mean by “rascal counters”?

Ans. He refers contemptuously to petty sums of money.

86. What does Brutus’ speech reveal about his attitude towards money?

Ans. He believes money must never be obtained or withheld at the cost of honour and duty.

87. How does Cassius respond to Brutus’ accusation about the gold?

Ans. He denies that he refused Brutus the money.

88. Does Brutus accept Cassius’ denial?

Ans. No, Brutus insists that Cassius did refuse him.

89. How does Cassius explain the misunderstanding?

Ans. He says that the person who conveyed his answer was a fool.

90. How does Cassius describe the effect of Brutus’ words on him?

Ans. He says Brutus has torn his heart apart.

91. What does Cassius believe a friend should tolerate?

Ans. He believes a friend should tolerate the weaknesses of another friend.

92. What does Cassius accuse Brutus of doing to his faults?

Ans. He accuses Brutus of making his faults seem greater than they are.

93. How does Brutus defend himself against Cassius’ accusation?

Ans. He says he does not exaggerate Cassius’ faults unless Cassius practises them against him.

94. What does Cassius say about Brutus’ feelings towards him?

Ans. He says that Brutus does not love him.

95. How does Brutus distinguish between loving Cassius and liking his faults?

Ans. He says he loves Cassius but does not like his faults.

96. What does Cassius say a friendly eye would do?

Ans. He says a friendly eye would never see such faults.

97. What kind of person, according to Brutus, would overlook Cassius’ faults?

Ans. A flatterer would overlook them.

98. What does Brutus say about the size of Cassius’ faults?

Ans. He says that even if they were as huge as high Olympus, a flatterer would ignore them.

99. Whom does Cassius call upon to take revenge on him?

Ans. He calls upon Antony and young Octavius.

100. Why does Cassius say they should take revenge on him alone?

Ans. He feels that he is hated by the man he loves and humiliated by his own friend.

101. Whom does Cassius say he loves but who now hates him?

Ans. He means Brutus.

102. Whom does Cassius describe as his brother?

Ans. He refers to Brutus as his brother in their shared cause.

103. How does Cassius feel about being treated like a bondman?

Ans. He feels humiliated and deeply insulted.

104. What does Cassius say Brutus has done with his faults?

Ans. He says Brutus has observed and recorded all his faults.

105. What does “conn’d by rote” mean?

Ans. It means learned by heart through repetition.

106. Why does Cassius believe Brutus records his faults?

Ans. He believes Brutus keeps them ready to use against him.

107. What does Cassius say he could do because of his grief?

Ans. He says he could weep his spirit from his eyes.

108. What does Cassius produce during his emotional appeal?

Ans. He produces his dagger.

109. What does Cassius reveal after producing the dagger?

Ans. He reveals his bare breast and refers to the heart within it.

110. How does Cassius describe his heart?

Ans. He describes it as dearer than the mine of Plutus and richer than gold.

111. Who was Plutus? Ans. Plutus was the classical god associated with wealth.

112. What does Cassius challenge Brutus to do if he is a true Roman?

Ans. He challenges Brutus to take out his heart with the dagger.

113. What does Cassius offer Brutus instead of the gold he allegedly refused?

Ans. He offers Brutus his own heart.

114. What does Cassius mean by offering his heart?

Ans. He expresses the depth of his affection and his willingness to sacrifice himself.

115. Whom does Cassius compare Brutus’ possible action against him with?

Ans. He compares it with Brutus’ act of stabbing Caesar.

116. What does Cassius claim about Brutus’ feelings towards Caesar?

Ans. He claims that Brutus loved Caesar even when he hated him most.

117. How does Cassius compare Brutus’ love for Caesar with his love for Cassius?

Ans. He claims Brutus loved Caesar more than he has ever loved Cassius.

118. What is the central emotional conflict in the passage?

Ans. It is the conflict between Brutus’ moral principles and Cassius’ wounded pride and affection.

119. What is the main cause of the quarrel between Brutus and Cassius?

Ans. Their quarrel arises from accusations of corruption, disagreement over money, and wounded pride.

120. What does the passage reveal about the relationship between Brutus and Cassius?

Ans. It reveals a close friendship strained by mistrust, anger, pride, and conflicting principles.

Two-Mark Questions 

1. How does the dispute over Lucius Pella reveal the difference between Brutus’ and Cassius’ principles?

Ans. Brutus condemns Lucius Pella for accepting bribes despite Cassius’ recommendation in his favour. He believes corruption must be punished regardless of personal connections. Cassius, however, resents Brutus’ disregard for his letters. Their disagreement reveals Brutus’ strict moral principles and Cassius’ concern for loyalty and personal influence.

2. Why does Brutus consider the acceptance of bribes particularly disgraceful after Caesar’s assassination?

Ans. Brutus reminds Cassius that they participated in Caesar’s assassination in the name of justice. He considers it disgraceful that those who claimed to defend Rome’s honour should accept bribes for personal gain. Such conduct would contradict their declared principles and diminish the honour associated with their actions.

3. Explain the significance of Brutus’ statement that he would rather be a dog and bay at the moon than a Roman who accepts bribes.

Ans. Brutus uses this comparison to express his contempt for corruption. He considers even the apparently meaningless behaviour of a dog preferable to the dishonour of a corrupt Roman. The comparison emphasises his belief that moral integrity and public honour must never be sacrificed for money.

4. How does Brutus’ accusation of an “itching palm” intensify his quarrel with Cassius?

Ans. By accusing Cassius of having an “itching palm,” Brutus suggests that he is greedy for money. He further alleges that Cassius sells offices for gold. These accusations attack Cassius’ personal integrity and reputation, turning their disagreement over Lucius Pella into a bitter personal confrontation.

5. How does the exchange of threats and insults reveal the deterioration of Brutus and Cassius’ relationship?

Ans. Cassius repeatedly warns Brutus against provoking him, while Brutus refuses to be frightened by his anger. Brutus insults Cassius’ temper and challenges his superiority. Their hostile exchange shows that mutual respect has weakened and that wounded pride is threatening their friendship and cooperation.

6. What does the argument about military experience reveal about Cassius’ attitude towards Brutus?

Ans. Cassius claims to be an older soldier with greater military experience. His insistence suggests that he expects his experience to command respect. Brutus refuses to accept any implication of superiority. Their disagreement reveals Cassius’ sensitivity about his standing and Brutus’ determination to maintain his independence.

7. How does Brutus challenge Cassius’ claim by referring to Caesar? What does this reveal about their rivalry?

Ans. Cassius claims that Caesar would not have dared to provoke him as Brutus does. Brutus counters that Cassius would not have dared to provoke Caesar. This reply challenges Cassius’ courage and status, revealing the bitterness of their rivalry and their willingness to use comparisons to wound each other.

8. Why does Cassius warn Brutus not to presume too much upon his love?

Ans. Cassius feels that Brutus is repeatedly insulting him despite their friendship. His warning suggests that even his affection has limits and that continued provocation may lead to an action he would regret. It reveals the conflict between his love for Brutus and his wounded pride.

9. Explain the significance of Brutus comparing Cassius’ threats to an “idle wind.”

Ans. Brutus considers Cassius’ threats powerless against his firm principles. By comparing them to an “idle wind,” he dismisses them as ineffective and unworthy of fear. The expression highlights Brutus’ confidence in his own integrity and his refusal to allow anger or intimidation to control him.

10. How does Brutus defend his integrity while explaining why he asked Cassius for gold?

Ans. Brutus explains that he requested gold to pay his legions. He insists that he would rather sacrifice himself than obtain money dishonestly or exploit hardworking peasants. His explanation presents him as a man who places duty and honour above personal gain and refuses to compromise his principles.

11. What does Brutus mean by saying he would rather “coin” his heart and shed his blood for money?

Ans. Brutus uses these expressions to emphasise how strongly he rejects dishonest ways of obtaining money. He would rather endure personal suffering than exploit others for financial gain. His words reinforce his claim that he values honesty and moral responsibility more than wealth or convenience.

12. How does the reference to the peasants strengthen Brutus’ argument against corruption?

Ans. Brutus refers to the hardworking hands of peasants to show that he will not obtain money by exploiting ordinary people. He considers such conduct dishonest and degrading. This reference strengthens his argument that financial needs, even the need to pay soldiers, cannot justify abandoning moral principles.

13. How does Cassius explain the misunderstanding concerning Brutus’ request for gold?

Ans. Cassius denies that he refused Brutus the gold and blames the misunderstanding on the foolish person who conveyed his answer. His explanation suggests that the refusal was not deliberate. He is deeply hurt that Brutus has judged his character without properly understanding what happened.

14. What does Cassius mean when he says that a friend should bear a friend’s infirmities? Why does Brutus disagree?

Ans. Cassius believes that friendship requires patience with another person’s weaknesses. He expects Brutus to tolerate his faults rather than repeatedly expose them. Brutus disagrees because he considers honest criticism preferable to flattery. For him, genuine friendship does not require approving of wrongdoing.

15. Explain Brutus’ distinction between genuine friendship and flattery.

Ans. Brutus says that he loves Cassius but does not love his faults. He argues that a flatterer would overlook even serious wrongdoing to please a friend. Genuine friendship, in Brutus’ view, requires honesty and the courage to criticise faults rather than conceal them for the sake of harmony.

16. Why does Cassius appeal to Antony and young Octavius to take revenge on him? What does this reveal about his emotional state?

Ans. Cassius feels deeply wounded because Brutus, whom he loves, appears to hate and humiliate him. His appeal to Antony and young Octavius expresses his despair and sense of rejection. It shows that Brutus’ treatment has affected him so profoundly that he feels overwhelmed by grief and indignation.

17. What does Cassius mean by accusing Brutus of having “conn’d” his faults “by rote”?

Ans. Cassius means that Brutus has memorised his faults and keeps them ready to use against him. The expression suggests that Cassius feels constantly judged and criticised. He believes Brutus records his shortcomings instead of treating him with the understanding and tolerance he expects from a close friend.

18. Explain the dramatic significance of Cassius drawing his dagger and offering Brutus his heart.

Ans. Cassius draws his dagger and exposes his breast to express the intensity of his emotional suffering. By challenging Brutus to take his heart, he dramatically demonstrates how deeply he feels betrayed and insulted. The gesture turns their verbal quarrel into an intense appeal to their friendship and shared past.

19. How does Cassius use the image of his heart to express his feelings towards Brutus?

Ans. Cassius describes his heart as more precious than the wealth associated with Plutus. By offering it to Brutus, he suggests that his affection is more valuable than gold. His gesture shows that the quarrel is not merely about money or authority but also about wounded affection and friendship.

20. What is the significance of Cassius’ final comparison between Brutus’ love for Caesar and his love for Cassius?

Ans. Cassius reminds Brutus that he loved Caesar even when he hated him most. He then claims that Brutus has never loved Cassius as deeply as he loved Caesar. This final appeal exposes Cassius’ emotional insecurity and his desire to know whether Brutus’ affection for him is genuine and enduring.

 Three-Mark Questions

1. How does the quarrel over Lucius Pella expose the fundamental difference between Brutus’ and Cassius’ attitudes towards public morality and personal loyalty?

Ans. Brutus believes that Pella must be punished for taking bribes, regardless of Cassius’ recommendation. Cassius, however, resents Brutus’ disregard for his letters supporting Pella. Their disagreement exposes the conflict between Brutus’ strict commitment to public morality and Cassius’ expectation that personal connections should receive consideration.

2. Why does Brutus consider bribery especially shameful in the case of those who participated in Caesar’s assassination? Explain his argument.

Ans. Brutus reminds Cassius that they participated in Caesar’s assassination in the name of justice. He argues that accepting bribes afterwards would contradict the principles they claimed to defend. In his view, exchanging their honour for money would disgrace their cause and make their professed commitment to justice hypocritical.

3. Explain how Brutus uses the comparison with a dog baying at the moon to emphasise his contempt for corruption.

Ans. Brutus declares that he would rather be a dog baying at the moon than a Roman who accepts bribes. The comparison expresses his contempt for dishonourable conduct. He considers even an apparently meaningless action preferable to sacrificing personal integrity for money, emphasising the supremacy of honour over wealth.

4. How does Brutus’ accusation that Cassius has an “itching palm” develop the original disagreement into a personal conflict?

Ans. Brutus accuses Cassius of greed and alleges that he sells offices for gold. These charges go beyond the question of Lucius Pella and directly attack Cassius’ integrity. Cassius reacts angrily because he feels personally insulted, turning their disagreement over public conduct into a bitter confrontation between friends.

5. Examine how the repeated threats and insults exchanged by Brutus and Cassius reveal their changing relationship during the quarrel.

Ans. Cassius repeatedly warns Brutus against provoking him, showing his wounded pride and anger. Brutus refuses to be intimidated and responds with further insults about Cassius’ temper. Their exchange demonstrates how mutual respect is giving way to hostility, although their intense reactions also reveal how much their relationship matters to them.

6. What does the argument about military experience reveal about the pride and insecurities of both Brutus and Cassius?

Ans. Cassius emphasises that he is an older soldier with greater experience, suggesting that his military standing deserves respect. Brutus refuses to accept any implication that Cassius is superior to him. Their argument exposes Cassius’ sensitivity about his status and Brutus’ determination to defend his own authority.

7. How does the comparison between Cassius and Caesar intensify the quarrel, and what does Brutus’ response imply about Cassius?

Ans. Cassius claims that Caesar would not have dared to provoke him as Brutus does. Brutus counters that Cassius would not have dared to provoke Caesar. His reply challenges Cassius’ courage and status, making their disagreement more personal and revealing how both men use comparisons to wound each other’s pride.

8. Explain the significance of Cassius’ warning that Brutus should not presume too much upon his love.

Ans. Cassius warns Brutus that his repeated insults are testing the limits of their friendship. Although he loves Brutus, he fears that continued provocation may drive him to an action he would regret. His warning reveals the struggle between his affection for Brutus and his wounded pride.

9. How does Brutus defend his moral courage when Cassius threatens him? Explain the significance of the “idle wind” comparison.

Ans. Brutus declares that Cassius’ threats cannot frighten him because he trusts his own integrity. By comparing them to an “idle wind,” he dismisses them as powerless. The comparison emphasises his confidence in his principles and his refusal to allow another person’s anger to determine his conduct.

10. Explain why Brutus’ request for gold becomes an important part of his argument against Cassius.

Ans. Brutus explains that he requested gold to pay his legions, not for personal luxury. He is offended because he believes Cassius refused his request. The incident strengthens his criticism of Cassius and adds a personal grievance to their existing disagreement over bribery and public morality.

11. How do Brutus’ references to his heart, blood, and the peasants strengthen his defence of personal integrity?

Ans. Brutus says he would rather sacrifice himself than obtain money dishonestly. His references to his heart and blood emphasise the extent of his willingness to suffer rather than compromise his principles. By mentioning the peasants’ hard hands, he also rejects exploiting hardworking people for financial gain.

12. How does Cassius attempt to clear himself of Brutus’ accusation that he refused to provide the requested gold?

Ans. Cassius denies refusing Brutus the gold and blames the misunderstanding on the foolish person who conveyed his answer. He implies that the refusal was not deliberate. His explanation reveals that the quarrel has been aggravated by misunderstanding as well as by the men’s wounded pride and mutual accusations.

13. Explain the difference between Cassius’ and Brutus’ ideas of friendship as revealed by their argument about personal faults.

Ans. Cassius believes that friends should tolerate one another’s weaknesses and avoid repeatedly exposing them. Brutus, however, believes that genuine friendship requires honesty rather than flattery. He insists that loving Cassius does not oblige him to approve of his faults, revealing their conflicting expectations of friendship.

14. Why does Brutus reject the idea that a friend should overlook another friend’s faults? What does this reveal about his character?

Ans. Brutus believes that overlooking faults would amount to flattery rather than genuine friendship. He maintains that a true friend should speak honestly about wrongdoing. This position reveals his uncompromising moral standards and his conviction that personal affection must never take precedence over truth and integrity.

15. How does Cassius’ appeal to Antony and young Octavius reveal the depth of his emotional suffering?

Ans. Cassius calls upon Antony and young Octavius to take revenge on him because he feels hated and humiliated by Brutus, whom he loves. His appeal expresses despair and wounded pride. It shows that Brutus’ harsh treatment affects him deeply because their friendship is important to him.

16. Explain the meaning and emotional effect of Cassius’ accusation that Brutus has “conn’d” his faults “by rote.”

Ans. Cassius means that Brutus has memorised his faults and keeps them ready to use against him. The expression conveys his feeling of being constantly judged and criticised. It also reveals his resentment that Brutus seems more interested in remembering his shortcomings than in showing him the understanding expected of a friend.

17. Analyse the dramatic significance of Cassius drawing his dagger and offering Brutus his heart.

Ans. Cassius draws his dagger and exposes his breast to express his intense emotional suffering. By challenging Brutus to take his heart, he transforms their verbal quarrel into a dramatic appeal to their friendship. The gesture reveals his wounded pride, desperation, and desire to make Brutus recognise the depth of his feelings.

18. Why does Cassius describe his heart as more precious than the wealth associated with Plutus? How does this image contribute to his argument?

Ans. Cassius describes his heart as more precious than the mine of Plutus to emphasise its extraordinary value. By offering it instead of money, he suggests that his feelings and friendship are worth more than gold. The image reinforces his emotional appeal and challenges Brutus to recognise his sincerity.

19. How does Cassius use the memory of Caesar to question Brutus’ affection for him?

Ans. Cassius reminds Brutus that Brutus loved Caesar even when he hated him most. He then claims that Brutus has never loved Cassius as deeply as he loved Caesar. By making this comparison, Cassius expresses his insecurity and challenges Brutus to consider whether their friendship has been valued sufficiently.

20. Trace how the disagreement over bribery develops into an emotional confrontation between Brutus and Cassius.

Ans. The quarrel begins with Brutus’ condemnation of Lucius Pella and his accusations of corruption against Cassius. It develops through insults, threats, disagreement over military experience, and the dispute about gold. Finally, Cassius draws his dagger and offers Brutus his heart, revealing that their conflict involves wounded affection as well as moral disagreement.

Four-Mark Questions

1. How does the incident involving Lucius Pella reveal the conflict between Brutus’ sense of justice and Cassius’ personal loyalty?

Ans. Brutus condemns Lucius Pella for accepting bribes despite Cassius’ letters recommending him. Brutus believes that an offence must be punished regardless of personal connections. Cassius, however, feels insulted because Brutus has disregarded his requests. Their disagreement reveals the conflict between Brutus’ strict commitment to justice and Cassius’ expectation that his personal recommendation should carry weight.

2. Explain how Brutus connects Caesar’s assassination with his condemnation of bribery.

Ans. Brutus reminds Cassius of the Ides of March, when they participated in Caesar’s assassination in the name of justice. He argues that accepting bribes after claiming to defend Rome would contradict their professed principles. He considers it disgraceful to exchange their honour for money and suggests that such corruption would undermine the moral justification they claimed for their actions.

3. Interpret Brutus’ comparison of himself to a dog baying at the moon. What does it reveal about his values?

Ans. Brutus declares that he would rather be a dog baying at the moon than a Roman who accepts bribes. The comparison expresses his contempt for corruption and his refusal to sacrifice honour for wealth. He considers even an apparently meaningless action preferable to dishonourable conduct. His words establish personal integrity as more important than money or social position.

4. How does Cassius’ reaction to Brutus’ accusations demonstrate the role of pride in their quarrel?

Ans. Cassius reacts angrily when Brutus accuses him of corruption and greed. He repeatedly warns Brutus against provoking him and resents being treated disrespectfully. His responses show that he regards the accusations as attacks on his honour and standing. His wounded pride intensifies the quarrel and makes it increasingly difficult for the two men to discuss their disagreement calmly.

5. How does the exchange about military experience contribute to the conflict between Brutus and Cassius?

Ans. Cassius claims to be an older soldier with greater military experience, while Brutus refuses to accept any suggestion of superiority. Their disagreement shifts the argument from corruption to personal status and authority. Cassius wants his experience to be respected, whereas Brutus insists on maintaining his own position. This exchange further intensifies their rivalry and mutual resentment.

6. Explain the significance of the comparison between Cassius and Caesar during the quarrel.

Ans. Cassius claims that Caesar would not have dared to provoke him as Brutus does. Brutus counters that Cassius would not have dared to provoke Caesar. This sharp reply challenges Cassius’ courage and status. The comparison makes their disagreement more personal, as both men use Caesar’s name to undermine the other’s pride and authority.

7. What does Brutus’ response to Cassius’ threats reveal about his character and his understanding of honour?

Ans. Brutus refuses to be intimidated by Cassius’ threats. He compares them to an “idle wind” and declares that he will not yield to Cassius’ temper. His response reveals his confidence in his own integrity and his determination to defend his principles. He believes that moral courage should prevent a person from submitting to anger or intimidation.

8. Why does Brutus mention his request for gold, and how does he use it to defend his honesty?

Ans. Brutus explains that he requested gold from Cassius to pay his legions. He insists that he would rather sacrifice himself than obtain money dishonestly or exploit hardworking peasants. By describing his willingness to suffer rather than compromise his principles, he defends his integrity and contrasts his own conduct with the corruption he attributes to Cassius.

9. How does Cassius defend himself against Brutus’ accusation that he refused the requested gold?

Ans. Cassius denies refusing Brutus the gold and blames the misunderstanding on the foolish person who conveyed his answer. His explanation suggests that Brutus has judged him unfairly. Cassius is hurt because he believes that Brutus has questioned his loyalty without properly understanding the circumstances. The misunderstanding adds another grievance to their existing conflict.

10. Compare Brutus’ and Cassius’ views on how friends should treat each other’s faults.

Ans. Cassius believes that friends should tolerate one another’s weaknesses instead of repeatedly exposing them. He expects Brutus to show understanding and affection. Brutus, however, argues that genuine friendship does not require approving of wrongdoing. He distinguishes honest criticism from flattery, believing that a true friend should acknowledge faults rather than conceal them to preserve harmony.

11. How does Cassius’ appeal to Antony and young Octavius reveal his emotional state?

Ans. Cassius calls upon Antony and young Octavius to take revenge on him because he feels hated and humiliated by Brutus, whom he loves. His appeal expresses despair, wounded pride, and a sense of rejection. It demonstrates how deeply Brutus’ harsh treatment affects him and how painful the quarrel has become for someone who values their friendship.

12. What does Cassius mean when he says that Brutus has “conn’d” his faults “by rote”? Explain the significance of this accusation.

Ans. Cassius means that Brutus has memorised his faults and keeps them ready to use against him. The expression suggests that Cassius feels constantly judged and criticised. He believes Brutus remembers his shortcomings rather than showing the tolerance expected from a close friend. This accusation reveals Cassius’ resentment and his feeling that their friendship has deteriorated.

13. Analyse the dramatic significance of Cassius drawing his dagger and offering Brutus his heart.

Ans. Cassius draws his dagger and exposes his breast to express the intensity of his emotional suffering. He challenges Brutus to take his heart if he considers him deserving of such treatment. This dramatic gesture transforms their verbal quarrel into an emotional appeal. It reveals Cassius’ wounded pride, desperation, and desire for Brutus to recognise the depth of his feelings.

14. Why does Cassius describe his heart as more precious than the wealth associated with Plutus? How does this strengthen his appeal?

Ans. Cassius describes his heart as more precious than the mine of Plutus, the figure associated with wealth. By offering his heart rather than gold, he suggests that his affection is more valuable than material riches. The image strengthens his emotional appeal by showing that the dispute is not merely about money but also about friendship, trust, and wounded feelings.

15. Explain how Cassius’ final comparison between Brutus’ love for Caesar and his love for Cassius brings the quarrel to its emotional climax.

Ans. Cassius reminds Brutus that Brutus loved Caesar even when he hated him most. He then claims that Brutus has never loved Cassius as deeply as he loved Caesar. This comparison expresses Cassius’ insecurity and his desire for reassurance about their friendship. It brings the quarrel to an emotional climax by shifting attention from accusations and money to the depth of Brutus’ affection.

Reference To Context

Extract 1

Cassius. That you have wrong'd me doth appear in this:
You have condemn'd and noted Lucius Pella
For taking bribes here of the Sardians;
Wherein my letters, praying on his side,
Because I knew the man, were slighted off.

Brutus. You wronged yourself to write in such a case.

Cassius. In such a time as this it is not meet
That every nice offence should bear his comment.

 

(i) What does Cassius complain about, and how does he feel that Brutus has wronged him? (3 marks)

Answer: Cassius complains that Brutus has condemned and censured Lucius Pella for taking bribes from the Sardians. Cassius had written letters requesting Brutus to support Pella because he knew him personally. However, Brutus disregarded his letters. Cassius therefore feels that Brutus has insulted him by ignoring his request and refusing to consider his personal recommendation in Pella’s case.

(ii) Who was Lucius Pella, what offence had he committed, and what action had Brutus taken against him? (3 marks)

Answer: Lucius Pella was a man known to Cassius who had allegedly taken bribes from the Sardians. Brutus had condemned and censured him for this offence. Cassius objected to Brutus’s action because he had written letters requesting support for Pella. Brutus, however, considered Cassius’s intervention inappropriate and maintained that Cassius had wronged himself by writing such a letter.

(iii) Why had Cassius written letters to Brutus, and what does the expression “were slighted off” mean? (3 marks)

Answer: Cassius had written letters to Brutus requesting him to support Lucius Pella because he knew Pella personally. He expected Brutus to consider his recommendation. However, the letters were “slighted off,” meaning that they were disregarded or treated as unimportant. Cassius feels offended because Brutus ignored his appeal, thereby rejecting his intervention in Pella’s case.

(iv) Explain Brutus’s statement, “You wronged yourself to write in such a case.” (3 marks)

Answer: Brutus tells Cassius that writing in support of Lucius Pella was itself an improper act. Pella had been condemned for taking bribes, and Brutus believed that such misconduct deserved criticism rather than protection. By intervening on Pella’s behalf, Cassius had compromised his own honour. Brutus therefore considers Cassius responsible for lowering his own moral standing through this intervention.

(v) What difference of opinion between Brutus and Cassius emerges from this extract? Explain how their statements reveal their respective attitudes towards personal loyalty and public integrity. (4 marks)

Answer: The extract reveals a conflict between Cassius’s personal loyalty and Brutus’s commitment to public integrity. Cassius believes Brutus should have considered his letters recommending Lucius Pella, whom he knew personally. He feels insulted because his request was disregarded. Brutus, however, argues that Cassius should not have intervened in a case involving bribery. He believes corruption deserves condemnation regardless of personal relationships. Their disagreement establishes the central tension between friendship and moral responsibility, which intensifies their quarrel.

Extract 2

Brutus. Let me tell you, Cassius, you yourself
Are much condemn'd to have an itching palm;
To sell and mart your offices for gold
To undeservers.

Cassius. I an itching palm!
You know that you are Brutus that speak this,
Or, by the gods, this speech were else your last.

Brutus. The name of Cassius honours this corruption,
And chastisement doth therefore hide his head.

(i) What accusation does Brutus make against Cassius? (3 marks)

Answer: Brutus accuses Cassius of having an “itching palm,” suggesting that Cassius is greedy for money. He alleges that Cassius sells and trades official positions or privileges for gold, giving them to people who do not deserve them. Brutus considers this conduct corrupt and openly condemns Cassius for misusing his authority for personal financial gain.

(ii) What does the expression “an itching palm” mean in this context? (3 marks)

Answer: The expression “an itching palm” refers to greed for money and a willingness to accept bribes. Brutus uses it to accuse Cassius of corruption. He alleges that Cassius exchanges official positions or privileges for gold and favours undeserving people. Thus, the expression suggests that Cassius is financially dishonest and abuses his position for personal benefit.

(iii) How does Cassius react to Brutus’s accusation? (3 marks)

Answer: Cassius reacts with anger and disbelief when Brutus accuses him of having an “itching palm.” He repeats the expression in indignation and reminds Brutus that he is speaking to Cassius. Cassius then threatens that, if anyone other than Brutus had spoken those words, the speech would have been the speaker’s last, revealing his intense anger.

(iv) Why does Cassius restrain himself from acting on his threat? (3 marks)

Answer: Cassius restrains himself because the person accusing him is Brutus, whom he treats differently from others. He declares that Brutus’s identity prevents him from responding to the accusation as he otherwise would. His words suggest that Cassius is deeply offended but still recognises a special bond with Brutus, which checks his immediate violent reaction.

(v) Explain Brutus’s statement: “The name of Cassius honours this corruption, / And chastisement doth therefore hide his head.” (4 marks)

Answer: Brutus means that Cassius’s respected name and position protect the corruption he alleges Cassius has committed. Ordinarily, such misconduct would invite punishment, but Cassius’s reputation prevents justice from being carried out openly. The phrase “chastisement doth therefore hide his head” personifies punishment as if it were ashamed or afraid to appear. Brutus suggests that Cassius receives special protection because of his standing, allowing alleged corruption to escape proper punishment.

Extract 3

Brutus. Remember March, the ides of March remember:
Did not great Julius bleed for justice' sake?
What villain touch'd his body, that did stab,
And not for justice? What, shall one of us
That struck the foremost man of all this world
But for supporting robbers, shall we now
Contaminate our fingers with base bribes,
And sell the mighty space of our large honours
For so much trash as may be grasped thus?
I had rather be a dog, and bay the moon,
Than such a Roman.

(i) What does Brutus ask Cassius to remember, and why is it significant? (3 marks)

Answer: Brutus asks Cassius to remember the Ides of March, the day on which Julius Caesar was assassinated. He recalls Caesar’s death to remind Cassius that they participated in the killing in the name of justice. Brutus argues that men who claimed to oppose wrongdoing must not now accept bribes or tolerate corruption for personal gain.

(ii) Why does Brutus refer to Caesar as “the foremost man of all this world”? (3 marks)

Answer: Brutus describes Caesar as “the foremost man of all this world” to emphasise Caesar’s greatness and importance. He reminds Cassius that they struck down such a powerful and distinguished man, claiming to act for justice. Brutus uses this reference to highlight the contradiction between their earlier justification for Caesar’s assassination and their alleged present involvement in corruption.

(iii) Explain the significance of the phrase “Contaminate our fingers with base bribes.” (3 marks)

Answer: The phrase means that accepting bribes would morally stain their hands and destroy their honour. Brutus regards bribery as a degrading act unworthy of Romans who claimed to kill Caesar for justice. The word “contaminate” suggests moral pollution, while “base bribes” emphasises the dishonourable nature of such payments and the corruption associated with accepting them.

(iv) What does Brutus mean by “sell the mighty space of our large honours / For so much trash”? (3 marks)

Answer: Brutus means that accepting small sums of money in exchange for corrupt favours would sacrifice their great honour for worthless material gain. He considers their reputation and integrity far more valuable than gold. By calling the money “trash,” he expresses contempt for bribery and argues that no amount of wealth can justify the loss of honour.

(v) Explain the meaning and significance of Brutus’s concluding statement, “I had rather be a dog, and bay the moon, / Than such a Roman.” (4 marks)

Answer: Brutus declares that he would prefer to be a dog howling at the moon rather than become a Roman who accepts bribes and betrays his honour. The comparison expresses his intense disgust with corruption. Howling at the moon is presented as a foolish or degrading activity, yet Brutus considers it preferable to moral dishonesty. His words reveal his uncompromising commitment to integrity and his belief that corrupt conduct disgraces Roman identity.

Extract 4

Cassius. Brutus, bay not me;
I'll not endure it: you forget yourself,
To hedge me in; I am a soldier, I,
Older in practise, abler than yourself
To make conditions.

Brutus. Go to; you are not, Cassius.

Cassius. I am.

Brutus. I say you are not.

Cassius. Urge me no more, I shall forget myself;
Have mind upon your health, tempt me no further.

Brutus. Away, slight man!

Cassius. Is't possible?

Brutus. Hear me, for I will speak.
Must I give way and room to your rash choler?
Shall I be frighted when a madman stares?

(i) Why does Cassius tell Brutus, “Brutus, bay not me; I’ll not endure it”? (3 marks)

Answer: Cassius tells Brutus not to attack or rebuke him so harshly. Brutus’s accusations about corruption have angered him, and he refuses to tolerate further humiliation. The command “bay not me” compares Brutus’s behaviour to a dog’s barking. Cassius feels that Brutus is treating him disrespectfully and insists that he will not endure such treatment any longer.

(ii) What does Cassius mean when he says that he is “Older in practise, abler than yourself / To make conditions”? (3 marks)

Answer: Cassius claims that he has greater practical experience as a soldier than Brutus and is therefore more capable of negotiating terms or making arrangements. By emphasising his experience and ability, he challenges Brutus’s authority to control him. His words reveal wounded pride and a determination to assert his military competence and independence during their quarrel.

(iii) How does Brutus respond to Cassius’s claim of superiority, and what does this reveal about their quarrel? (3 marks)

Answer: Brutus repeatedly denies Cassius’s claim, first telling him that he is not superior and then firmly repeating, “I say you are not.” His refusal to concede intensifies their disagreement. The exchange reveals that neither man is willing to yield, and their quarrel has developed into a direct contest of pride, authority, and personal respect between the two Romans.

(iv) Why does Cassius warn Brutus, “Have mind upon your health, tempt me no further”? (3 marks)

Answer: Cassius warns Brutus to stop provoking him because his anger is becoming difficult to control. The reference to Brutus’s “health” implies a threat of possible physical harm if the provocation continues. Cassius believes Brutus is pushing him too far. His warning reveals the growing intensity of their quarrel and the danger that their verbal conflict may become violent.

(v) Explain Brutus’s meaning in the lines, “Must I give way and room to your rash choler? / Shall I be frighted when a madman stares?” (4 marks)

Answer: Brutus questions whether he must surrender to Cassius’s uncontrolled anger and make room for his sudden temper. He refuses to be frightened by Cassius’s threatening behaviour, comparing him to a madman who tries to intimidate others through his stare. The rhetorical questions express Brutus’s defiance and confidence. He insists that Cassius’s anger will not silence him or prevent him from speaking openly.

Extract 5

Cassius. O ye gods, ye gods! must I endure all this?

Brutus. All this! ay, more: fret till your proud heart break;
Go show your slaves how choleric you are,
And make your bondmen tremble. Must I budge?
Must I observe you? must I stand and crouch
Under your testy humour? By the gods
You shall digest the venom of your spleen,
Though it do split you; for, from this day forth,
I'll use you for my mirth, yea, for my laughter,
When you are waspish.

(i) Why does Cassius exclaim, “O ye gods, ye gods! must I endure all this?” (3 marks)

Answer: Cassius appeals to the gods because he feels deeply insulted by Brutus’s harsh words and aggressive behaviour. His question expresses frustration, indignation, and emotional distress. He cannot understand why he must tolerate such treatment. The exclamation reveals how intensely the quarrel has affected him and how difficult he finds it to endure Brutus’s repeated provocations.

(ii) What does Brutus mean when he tells Cassius, “fret till your proud heart break”? (3 marks)

Answer: Brutus tells Cassius to continue worrying and becoming angry until his pride destroys him. The expression “proud heart break” emphasises the intensity of Cassius’s wounded pride and uncontrolled temper. Brutus shows no sympathy for his distress. Instead, he deliberately provokes Cassius further, demonstrating his own anger and determination not to surrender during their heated quarrel.

(iii) Why does Brutus refer to Cassius’s “slaves” and “bondmen”? (3 marks)

Answer: Brutus sarcastically tells Cassius to display his anger before his slaves and bondmen, whom he may frighten through his temper. He implies that Cassius’s aggressive behaviour may intimidate those under his authority but will not frighten Brutus. The reference challenges Cassius’s pride and power, suggesting that Brutus refuses to behave like a subordinate who must submit to him.

(iv) Explain the meaning of “You shall digest the venom of your spleen.” (3 marks)

Answer: Brutus means that Cassius must endure and contain the bitterness and anger arising from his own temper. The word “venom” compares Cassius’s resentment to poison, while “spleen” traditionally suggests anger or ill temper. Brutus refuses to soothe Cassius or retreat from the quarrel. Instead, he insists that Cassius must bear the unpleasant consequences of his own uncontrolled emotions.

(v) What does Brutus mean when he says, “I'll use you for my mirth, yea, for my laughter, / When you are waspish”? (4 marks)

Answer: Brutus declares that, from that day onward, he will treat Cassius’s angry outbursts as a source of amusement rather than fear or concern. The word “waspish” suggests irritability and a tendency to become angry quickly. Brutus intends to laugh at Cassius whenever he loses his temper. His statement is deliberately insulting and shows that their quarrel has damaged their mutual respect. He refuses to be intimidated by Cassius’s anger and threatens to make it an object of ridicule.

Extract 6

Brutus. You say you are a better soldier:
Let it appear so; make your vaunting true,
And it shall please me well: for mine own part,
I shall be glad to learn of noble men.

Cassius. You wrong me every way; you wrong me, Brutus;
I said, an elder soldier, not a better:
Did I say 'better'?

Brutus. If you did, I care not.

Cassius. When Caesar lived, he durst not thus have moved me.

Brutus. Peace, peace! you durst not so have tempted him.

Cassius. I durst not!

Brutus. No.

Cassius. What, durst not tempt him!

Brutus. For your life you durst not!

Cassius. Do not presume too much upon my love;
I may do that I shall be sorry for.

(i) What does Brutus mean when he asks Cassius to make his “vaunting true”? (3 marks)

Answer: Brutus refers to Cassius’s claim of being more experienced as a soldier. He challenges Cassius to demonstrate his military ability through actions rather than boastful words. Brutus says that proving his claim would please him. He also expresses his willingness to learn from noble men, suggesting that he values genuine merit and experience rather than empty boasting.

(ii) Why does Cassius insist that he said “an elder soldier,” not “a better”? (3 marks)

Answer: Cassius insists that he described himself as an “elder soldier,” meaning more experienced, rather than a “better” soldier, meaning superior in ability. He feels that Brutus has misrepresented his words and insulted him. By repeating his original statement and asking whether he said “better,” Cassius tries to correct the misunderstanding and defend his military reputation.

(iii) What does Cassius mean by saying, “When Caesar lived, he durst not thus have moved me”? (3 marks)

Answer: Cassius claims that Caesar would not have dared to provoke or challenge him in the manner Brutus does. He uses Caesar as a comparison to emphasise his own importance and express resentment at Brutus’s treatment. His statement also suggests that he feels Brutus is taking liberties with him and showing less respect than Cassius believes he deserves.

(iv) How does Brutus challenge Cassius’s claim about Caesar, and how does Cassius react? (3 marks)

Answer: Brutus retorts that Cassius would never have dared to provoke Caesar in the way he now claims. When Brutus repeats that Cassius would not have dared, Cassius reacts with disbelief and indignation, asking whether Brutus really means that he lacked the courage. Their exchange intensifies the quarrel by turning it into a dispute about Cassius’s courage and standing.

(v) Explain the significance of Cassius’s warning, “Do not presume too much upon my love; / I may do that I shall be sorry for.” (4 marks)

Answer: Cassius warns Brutus not to take his affection and friendship for granted. Although he values their relationship, Brutus’s repeated insults are testing his patience and self-control. Cassius fears that continued provocation may lead him to act rashly and later regret his actions. The warning reveals the tension between his anger and his attachment to Brutus. Their friendship restrains Cassius, but he suggests that this restraint may not last if Brutus continues to insult him.

Extract 7

Brutus. You have done that you should be sorry for.
There is no terror, Cassius, in your threats,
For I am arm'd so strong in honesty
That they pass by me as the idle wind,
Which I respect not. I did send to you
For certain sums of gold, which you denied me:
For I can raise no money by vile means:
By heaven, I had rather coin my heart,
And drop my blood for drachmas, than to wring
From the hard hands of peasants their vile trash
By any indirection: I did send
To you for gold to pay my legions,
Which you denied me: was that done like Cassius?
Should I have answer'd Caius Cassius so?
When Marcus Brutus grows so covetous,
To lock such rascal counters from his friends,
Be ready, gods, with all your thunderbolts;
Dash him to pieces!

(i) Why does Brutus say that Cassius’s threats do not frighten him? (3 marks)

Answer: Brutus declares that Cassius’s threats cannot frighten him because he is strongly protected by his honesty and integrity. He compares the threats to an idle wind that passes without affecting him. The metaphor expresses his confidence in his moral strength. Brutus believes that a person who acts honestly need not fear intimidation, even during a bitter quarrel with a friend.

(ii) Why did Brutus send to Cassius for certain sums of gold, and what was Cassius’s response? (3 marks)

Answer: Brutus had requested certain sums of gold from Cassius to pay his legions. However, Cassius refused to provide the money. Brutus reminds him of this refusal during their quarrel and questions whether such behaviour was worthy of Cassius. The incident reveals a serious disagreement between them concerning financial support and their responsibilities towards their soldiers.

(iii) Explain the meaning of “I had rather coin my heart, / And drop my blood for drachmas.” (3 marks)

Answer: Brutus means that he would rather suffer extreme personal pain and sacrifice his own blood than obtain money through dishonest means. The expression “coin my heart” suggests turning something deeply personal into money, while “drop my blood for drachmas” emphasises his willingness to suffer rather than exploit others. These expressions underline his uncompromising honesty and rejection of corruption.

(iv) Why does Brutus refuse to obtain money from peasants “by any indirection”? (3 marks)

Answer: Brutus refuses to obtain money from peasants through dishonest or indirect methods because he considers such practices morally degrading. He calls their possessions “vile trash,” expressing contempt for money gained through exploitation. Rather than force or deceive ordinary people to raise funds, he would prefer to sacrifice himself. His words emphasise his commitment to honesty and justice.

(v) Explain why Brutus invokes the gods against himself if he becomes covetous and withholds money from his friends. (4 marks)

Answer: Brutus declares that if he becomes so greedy that he refuses to share money with his friends, the gods should destroy him with their thunderbolts. His dramatic invocation demonstrates his strong belief in generosity, friendship, and moral integrity. He condemns the idea of hoarding money while friends need assistance. By referring to himself in the third person as Marcus Brutus, he emphasises how unworthy such conduct would be of his character and principles.

Extract 8

Cassius. Come, Antony, and young Octavius, come,
Revenge yourselves alone on Cassius,
For Cassius is aweary of the world;
Hated by one he loves; braved by his brother;
Cheque'd like a bondman; all his faults observed,
Set in a note-book, learn'd, and conn'd by rote,
To cast into my teeth. O, I could weep
My spirit from mine eyes! There is my dagger,
And here my naked breast; within, a heart
Dearer than Plutus' mine, richer than gold:
If that thou be'st a Roman, take it forth;
I, that denied thee gold, will give my heart:
Strike, as thou didst at Caesar; for, I know,
When thou didst hate him worst, thou lovedst him better
Than ever thou lovedst Cassius.

 

(i) Why does Cassius call upon Antony and young Octavius to take revenge on him? (3 marks)

Answer: Cassius dramatically calls upon Antony and young Octavius to take revenge on him because he feels deeply humiliated by Brutus. He declares that he is weary of the world and feels hated by the man he loves. His words express emotional pain, wounded pride, and despair at being criticised and treated harshly by Brutus during their bitter quarrel.

(ii) Explain the expressions “Hated by one he loves” and “braved by his brother.” (3 marks)

Answer: “Hated by one he loves” expresses Cassius’s feeling that Brutus, whom he loves and values, now treats him with hostility. “Braved by his brother” means that Brutus challenges or defies him boldly. Cassius feels particularly hurt because this disrespect comes from someone close to him. The expressions reveal the personal pain underlying their fierce argument.

(iii) What does Cassius mean by saying that his faults are “Set in a note-book, learn'd, and conn'd by rote”? (3 marks)

Answer: Cassius means that Brutus has carefully observed, recorded, and memorised all his faults so that he can repeatedly use them against him. The expression suggests that Brutus keeps a mental or written record of Cassius’s shortcomings. Cassius feels that his mistakes are being collected and recited to humiliate him, increasing his sense of injustice and emotional distress.

(iv) Explain the significance of Cassius’s offer of his dagger and “naked breast.” (3 marks)

Answer: Cassius offers his dagger and exposes his breast to show how deeply Brutus’s accusations have wounded him. He challenges Brutus to strike him if he truly considers him unworthy. His dramatic gesture expresses despair, anger, and wounded affection. Rather than continuing the argument, Cassius presents himself as willing to suffer death at the hands of someone he loves.

(v) Explain Cassius’s comparison between the love Brutus showed Caesar and the love he shows Cassius. (4 marks)

Answer: Cassius tells Brutus to strike him as Brutus struck Caesar, arguing that Brutus loved Caesar more deeply even when he hated him most than he has ever loved Cassius. This comparison is emotionally powerful because Brutus participated in Caesar’s assassination, yet Cassius believes Caesar received greater affection from him. Cassius feels betrayed and neglected by Brutus. His words expose the depth of his hurt and reveal how personal their quarrel has become, despite their shared political cause.

1. Simile

A simile compares two things explicitly, usually using like or as.

Textual expression	Explanation
“I had rather be a dog, and bay the moon”	Brutus compares the degrading life of a corrupt Roman with that of a dog howling at the moon. The comparison expresses his contempt for corruption.
“Shall I be frighted when a madman stares?”	Brutus compares Cassius's angry behaviour to that of a madman, belittling his anger. This is an implied comparison rather than a strict simile.
“You shall digest the venom of your spleen”	The expression indirectly compares Cassius's anger to venom. It is primarily a metaphor.
“They pass by me as the idle wind”	Brutus compares Cassius's threats to an idle wind, suggesting that they cannot affect him.
“Chequ'd like a bondman”	Cassius compares his treatment by Brutus to the treatment of a bondman or enslaved servant.
“As huge as high Olympus”	The flatterer's view of faults is compared with the enormous height of Mount Olympus, emphasising their apparent magnitude.

2. Metaphor

A metaphor describes one thing as another to suggest a resemblance without using like or as.

Textual expression	Explanation
“An itching palm”	A palm is metaphorically described as itching to suggest greed and a desire to receive bribes.
“To sell and mart your offices for gold”	Public offices are metaphorically treated as commodities sold in a market.
“The name of Cassius honours this corruption”	Cassius's name is associated with and lends respectability to corruption. The expression personifies his name and presents it as a symbol of his reputation.
“Chastisement doth therefore hide his head”	Chastisement is portrayed as a person hiding its head because Cassius's reputation protects him from punishment. This is also personification.
“Contaminate our fingers with base bribes”	Bribery is presented as something that physically contaminates the fingers; the contamination symbolises moral corruption.
“Sell the mighty space of our large honours”	Honour is metaphorically treated as property that can be sold for money.
“Bay the moon”	The moon becomes the object of a dog's futile howling; the expression metaphorically conveys degradation and absurdity in Brutus's comparison.
“Rash choler”	Cassius's anger is presented as a force that threatens to control his behaviour.
“Under your testy humour”	Cassius's temper is represented as something under which Brutus might be forced to stand or crouch.
“Digest the venom of your spleen”	Anger and bitterness are metaphorically represented as poisonous venom that Cassius must endure.
“I am arm'd so strong in honesty”	Brutus's honesty is presented as protective armour that shields him from threats.
“Coin my heart”	Brutus imagines turning his own heart into money, emphasising his willingness to suffer personally rather than obtain money dishonestly.
“Drop my blood for drachmas”	Blood is presented as a price or payment, expressing Brutus's willingness to sacrifice himself rather than exploit poor people.
“The hard hands of peasants”	The hands represent the peasants' hard labour and the hardship of their lives. This also involves synecdoche.
“Brutus hath rived my heart”	Cassius describes his emotional pain as though Brutus has physically torn his heart apart.
“A friend should bear his friend's infirmities”	A friend's faults are represented as burdens that another friend should carry or tolerate.
“Brutus makes mine greater than they are”	Cassius presents Brutus's criticism as magnifying his faults.
“A friendly eye”	The eye represents a person's way of looking at or judging a friend.
“Set in a note-book”	Cassius's faults are figuratively treated as entries written down for future accusation.
“To cast into my teeth”	Criticism is represented as something thrown at a person, suggesting reproach and humiliation.
“I could weep my spirit from mine eyes”	Cassius imagines his grief as so intense that his very spirit could flow out through his tears.
“Within, a heart / Dearer than Plutus' mine, richer than gold”	Cassius metaphorically presents his heart as a treasure more valuable than a god of wealth's mine.
“I, that denied thee gold, will give my heart”	Cassius contrasts material wealth with his heart, representing his affection and emotional sincerity as a precious gift.

3. Personification

Personification gives human qualities or actions to non-human things or abstract ideas.

Textual expression	Explanation
“The name of Cassius honours this corruption”	Cassius's name is given the human ability to honour something.
“Chastisement doth therefore hide his head”	Chastisement, an abstract idea, is personified as a person hiding his head to escape punishment.
“Fret till your proud heart break”	The heart is presented as something capable of breaking under emotional pressure. This is also metaphorical.
“Your proud heart break”	The heart is given a physical vulnerability associated with a person or object.
“There is no terror, Cassius, in your threats”	Terror is treated as an abstract quality that might be present in threats; this is not a strong example of personification by itself.
“They pass by me as the idle wind”	The threats are described as passing by Brutus, with the wind providing the comparison. The principal device is simile.
“Be ready, gods, with all your thunderbolts; / Dash him to pieces!”	Brutus appeals to the gods as agents capable of carrying out punishment. This is an apostrophe and invocation, rather than a clear case of personification.
“Brutus hath rived my heart”	The heart is figuratively treated as something that can be torn apart; this is primarily metaphor, not personification.
“I could weep my spirit from mine eyes!”	The spirit is imagined as a substance that can leave the body through tears; this is metaphorical imagery.

Important distinction: The clearest examples of personification in this passage are “The name of Cassius honours this corruption” and “Chastisement doth therefore hide his head.” Other examples above involve metaphorical imagery but are not necessarily personification.

4. Synecdoche

Synecdoche is a figure of speech in which a part represents the whole, or the whole represents a part.

Textual expression	Explanation
“Contaminate our fingers with base bribes”	“Fingers” represent the whole person involved in accepting bribes.
“The hard hands of peasants”	“Hands” represent the peasants themselves, particularly their labour and livelihood.
“Drop my blood for drachmas”	“Blood” represents Brutus's life or personal sacrifice.
“Within, a heart”	The heart may represent Cassius's whole self, particularly his feelings and affection. This is also metaphorical symbolism.
“There is my dagger, / And here my naked breast”	The breast may represent Cassius's whole body, which he offers to the person he challenges.

Exam note: “Hands” representing workers and “fingers” representing people are defensible examples of synecdoche. However, “heart” representing affection is often more accurately described as symbolism or metaphor, depending on the question.

5. Metonymy

Metonymy substitutes the name of something closely associated with an object or person for the thing itself.

Textual expression	Explanation
“The name of Cassius”	“Name” stands for Cassius's reputation, public identity and influence.
“The name of Cassius honours this corruption”	Cassius's name represents his standing and authority, which seem to protect him from punishment.
“The name of Cassius” / “Caius Cassius”	The name may stand for the person and his public reputation.
“The mighty space of our large honours”	“Honours” can refer to the dignity, reputation and public standing associated with their positions.
“The gods” in “Be ready, gods, with all your thunderbolts”	The gods are invoked as representatives of divine authority and justice. This is chiefly apostrophe and invocation; metonymy is a possible secondary reading.
“When Caesar lived”	Caesar's life and presence may stand for his former authority and power. This is a contextual interpretation, not an unmistakable example of metonymy.

Exam note: The strongest example is “The name of Cassius”, where the name represents the man's reputation or standing.

6. Transferred epithet

A transferred epithet occurs when an adjective grammatically describing one noun is transferred to another noun associated with it.

Textual expression	Explanation
“The idle wind”	“Idle” literally suggests inactivity or uselessness. Here, it describes the wind as ineffective, while the intended comparison concerns the ineffectiveness of Cassius's threats. This may be interpreted as transferred epithet, though the primary device is simile.
“Rash choler”	“Rash” suggests thoughtlessness, a quality associated more directly with a person's behaviour than with anger itself. It can be interpreted as transferred epithet, although it is not an entirely unambiguous example.
“Vile means”	“Vile” expresses moral condemnation of the means used to obtain money. The adjective is directly applicable to the means, so this is not a clear transferred epithet.
“Vile trash”	“Vile” expresses contempt for the money or possessions obtained through dishonest means. This is ordinary figurative description, not a definite transferred epithet.

Important: There is no universally accepted, unmistakable example of transferred epithet in this extract. For an examination answer, avoid presenting “the idle wind” as a certain example without explaining its primary function as a simile.

7. Pun

A pun uses a word or expression to suggest two meanings, often for humorous or rhetorical effect.

Textual expression	Explanation
“An itching palm!”	The phrase refers figuratively to greed and the desire for bribes. The image of an itching palm also suggests a physical sensation. It is a figurative expression, but not necessarily a strict pun.
“Coin my heart”	“Coin” primarily means to make money, but Brutus applies it figuratively to his heart. The unexpected use of a financial term for a human organ creates a play on ideas of money and personal sacrifice. It is better classified as metaphorical wordplay than as a definite pun.
“I, that denied thee gold, will give my heart”	Cassius contrasts money with his heart, shifting from material wealth to emotional value. This is a contrast and metaphor rather than a clear pun.
“A friendly eye could never see such faults”	“Eye” refers both to the physical organ and figuratively to a person's judgement or outlook. This is primarily metonymy, not a definite pun.

Exam note: There is no clear, conventional pun in the supplied passage. “Coin my heart” is the best candidate for wordplay, but it should not automatically be labelled a pun in a strict literary analysis.

8. Inversion

Inversion is the reversal of normal word order, often used for emphasis, rhythm or poetic effect.

Textual expression	Normal prose order	Explanation
“That you have wrong'd me doth appear in this”	It appears from this that you have wronged me.	The sentence uses an unusual arrangement characteristic of Shakespearean verse.
“You wronged yourself to write in such a case”	You yourself were wrong to write in such a case.	The emphasis is placed on “yourself.” This is more emphatic construction than strict inversion.
“To sell and mart your offices for gold”	To sell your offices for gold.	“Mart” is an archaic verb meaning to trade or sell. The construction is poetic diction, not necessarily inversion.
“Go to; you are not, Cassius”	Go on; you are not, Cassius.	The expression is a conventional dramatic construction rather than a definite inversion.
“I shall be glad to learn of noble men”	I shall gladly learn from noble men.	The poetic construction is somewhat unusual but not a strong example of inversion.
“For I am arm'd so strong in honesty”	For I am so strongly armed with honesty.	The unusual placement of “strong” reflects poetic syntax and metaphorical expression.
“Brutus hath rived my heart”	Brutus has torn my heart apart.	The sentence has normal subject–verb–object order, so it is not inversion.
“There is my dagger, / And here my naked breast”	My dagger is there, and my naked breast is here.	The locative expressions “there” and “here” are placed first for emphasis. This is a defensible example of inversion or fronting.
“Dearer than Plutus' mine, richer than gold”	My heart is dearer than Plutus's mine and richer than gold.	The omitted subject is understood from the preceding line. This is ellipsis, rather than inversion.

Exam note: The clearest example of unusual word order is “There is my dagger, / And here my naked breast.” Shakespeare often rearranges word order to maintain the rhythm of blank verse, but not every unusual sentence is technically an inversion.

9. Symbolism

Symbolism occurs when an object, person, action or image represents a wider idea.

Textual expression	Symbolic meaning
“An itching palm”	Greed, bribery and corruption.
“The name of Cassius”	Reputation, authority and public standing.
“March, the ides of March remember”	Caesar's assassination and the conspirators' original claim that they acted for justice.
“Great Julius bleed for justice' sake”	Caesar's death and the moral justification Brutus associates with the conspiracy.
“Contaminate our fingers with base bribes”	Moral pollution through corruption.
“The mighty space of our large honours”	The dignity and integrity of public office.
“Trash”	Money regarded as morally inferior to honour and integrity.
“A dog, and bay the moon”	Humiliation, degradation and futile behaviour.
“The idle wind”	The ineffectiveness of Cassius's threats against Brutus's moral resolve.
“The venom of your spleen”	Anger, bitterness and hostility.
“Arm'd so strong in honesty”	Moral integrity as protection against intimidation.
“Coin my heart”	Personal sacrifice and the conflict between money and conscience.
“Drop my blood for drachmas”	Willingness to suffer rather than obtain money dishonestly.
“Thunderbolts”	Divine punishment and justice.
“Brutus hath rived my heart”	Emotional pain caused by a trusted friend's harsh criticism.
“A friendly eye”	Loyalty, affection and sympathetic judgement.
“As huge as high Olympus”	The exaggerated magnitude of the faults as seen by a flatterer.
“My dagger” and “my naked breast”	Cassius's vulnerability, desperation and willingness to prove his sincerity.
“A heart / Dearer than Plutus' mine, richer than gold”	The emotional and personal value of the heart, contrasted with material wealth.

10. Other important literary devices

These devices are also essential to understanding the passage.

A. Hyperbole

Hyperbole is deliberate exaggeration for emphasis.

Textual expression	Explanation
“I had rather be a dog, and bay the moon, / Than such a Roman.”	Brutus exaggerates his contempt for a corrupt Roman by declaring that he would prefer to be a dog.
“Fret till your proud heart break”	Brutus exaggerates the destructive power of Cassius's anger.
“Though it do split you”	The expression exaggerates the possible physical consequences of Cassius's anger.
“As huge as high Olympus”	The comparison exaggerates the apparent size of faults.
“I could weep my spirit from mine eyes!”	Cassius exaggerates his sorrow by imagining that he could weep out his spirit.
“Dearer than Plutus' mine, richer than gold”	Cassius exaggerates the value of his heart by comparing it with extraordinary material wealth.

B. Apostrophe

Apostrophe is a direct address to an absent person, a dead person, an abstract idea or a supernatural power.

Textual expression	Explanation
“Remember March, the ides of March remember”	Brutus directly invokes the memory of the day Caesar was assassinated. It is not a strict apostrophe because he is addressing Cassius, who is present.
“By the gods”	The gods are invoked as witnesses to the speaker's words.
“O ye gods, ye gods! must I endure all this?”	Cassius directly addresses the gods, expressing despair and indignation.
“Be ready, gods, with all your thunderbolts”	Brutus directly addresses the gods and calls upon them to punish dishonesty. This is a clear example of apostrophe.
“Come, Antony, and young Octavius, come”	Cassius addresses Antony and Octavius, who are absent. This is a dramatic apostrophe.

C. Rhetorical question

A rhetorical question is asked for emphasis rather than to obtain an answer.

Textual expression	Explanation
“What villain touch'd his body, that did stab, / And not for justice?”	Brutus challenges the moral justification of Caesar's assassins.
“What, shall one of us … contaminate our fingers with base bribes?”	Brutus condemns bribery by asking a question whose implied answer is negative.
“Was that done like Cassius?”	Brutus challenges Cassius's conduct and questions whether it was consistent with his character.
“Should I have answer'd Caius Cassius so?”	Brutus questions the fairness of Cassius's treatment of him.
“Must I give way and room to your rash choler?”	Brutus refuses to submit to Cassius's anger.
“Must I be frighted when a madman stares?”	Brutus dismisses Cassius's intimidating behaviour.
“Must I budge? Must I observe you? Must I stand and crouch / Under your testy humour?”	The repeated questions emphasise Brutus's refusal to submit to Cassius's temper.
“Did I say 'better'?”	Cassius questions Brutus's interpretation of his words.
“When Caesar lived, he durst not thus have moved me.”	Cassius's statement is not a question, but it provokes Brutus to challenge his courage in the following exchange.

D. Anaphora and repetition

Anaphora is the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences.

Textual expression	Explanation
“Remember March, the ides of March remember”	“Remember” is repeated for emphasis. This is repetition, though not strict anaphora because the words do not begin successive clauses in precisely the same position.
“You wrong me every way; you wrong me, Brutus”	The repetition of “you wrong me” emphasises Cassius's sense of grievance.
“You denied me … / Which you denied me”	The repetition of the accusation stresses Brutus's resentment.
“Must I …? Must I …? Must I …?”	The repeated opening phrase is a clear example of anaphora.
“I durst not! … What, durst not tempt him!”	The repetition of “durst not” shows Cassius's anger and disbelief.
“You did.” / “I did not”	Repetition of the verb “did” emphasises the disagreement.
“Come, Antony, and young Octavius, come”	The repetition of “come” emphasises Cassius's emotional appeal.

E. Antithesis

Antithesis places contrasting ideas in parallel or closely related expressions.

Textual expression	Explanation
“An elder soldier, not a better”	Cassius contrasts greater age and experience with greater ability.
“You love me not.” / “I do not like your faults.”	The exchange contrasts personal affection with disapproval of a friend's behaviour.
“I, that denied thee gold, will give my heart”	The contrast between gold and the heart distinguishes material wealth from personal affection.
“Dearer than Plutus' mine, richer than gold”	The heart is compared with material wealth to emphasise its emotional value.
“A friend should bear his friend's infirmities, / But Brutus makes mine greater than they are.”	The contrast between what a friend should do and what Brutus actually does highlights Cassius's disappointment.

F. Alliteration

Alliteration is the repetition of initial consonant sounds in nearby words.

Textual expression	Explanation
“Sell and mart your offices for gold”	The repeated initial /s/ sound in “sell” and the related sibilant sounds in the phrase contribute to its rhythm. This is not the strongest example of alliteration.
“For so much trash as may be grasped thus”	The repeated /s/ sound in “so,” “as” and “thus” produces a sibilant effect, although the words do not all begin with the same sound.
“Must I stand and crouch”	The repeated /s/ sound in “stand” and “crouch” is not alliteration because the initial consonants differ.
“My spirit from mine eyes”	The repetition of the /m/ sound in “my” and “mine” is a clear instance of alliteration.
“When you are waspish”	The repeated /w/ sound in “when” and “waspish” contributes to the sound pattern.

G. Irony

Irony occurs when a contrast exists between what is said or expected and what is actually meant or happens.

Textual expression	Explanation
“Did not great Julius bleed for justice' sake?”	Brutus invokes justice to condemn bribery, creating a contrast between the conspirators' professed ideals and their present quarrel over corruption.
“The name of Cassius honours this corruption”	Cassius's reputation appears to protect the very corruption that should bring punishment.
“I, that denied thee gold, will give my heart”	Cassius contrasts his refusal of money with his offer of his heart, creating an emotionally charged reversal.

Quick revision table

Literary device	Best example from the extract
Simile	“They pass by me as the idle wind”
Metaphor	“I am arm'd so strong in honesty”
Personification	“Chastisement doth therefore hide his head”
Synecdoche	“The hard hands of peasants”
Metonymy	“The name of Cassius”
Transferred epithet	No entirely unambiguous example
Pun	No definite conventional pun; “Coin my heart” is possible wordplay
Inversion	“There is my dagger, / And here my naked breast”
Symbolism	“Contaminate our fingers with base bribes”
Hyperbole	“I could weep my spirit from mine eyes!”
Apostrophe	“Be ready, gods, with all your thunderbolts”
Rhetorical question	“Was that done like Cassius?”
Anaphora	“Must I …? Must I …? Must I …?”
Antithesis	“An elder soldier, not a better”
Alliteration	“My spirit from mine eyes”
Irony	“The name of Cassius honours this corruption”