Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare
Act 4 Scene: I
A. Antony: "Fetch the will hither, and we shall determine
How to cut off some charge in legacies."
1. To whom does Antony give this instruction? Who else is present at the time? Where are they?
→ Antony gives this instruction to Lepidus.
The other person present is Octavius.
The stage directions indicate that they are seated at a table, likely in a private setting where they are discussing
political plans and decisions. The exact location is not specified in the text, but it is implied they are in a space
where they can conduct such conspiratorial discussions without interruption.
2. What have they been discussing?
→ Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus have been discussing the list of people who are to be executed as part of their
political purges. They are deciding who among their enemies (or even allies) will be "pricked" for death, which
demonstrates their ruthless consolidation of power. They also address personal matters, such as the deaths of
Lepidus' brother and Antony's nephew, Publius, to which they all coldly consent.
Antony then shifts the focus to Caesar's will, instructing Lepidus to fetch it so they can find ways to reduce the
financial burdens ("cut off some charge in legacies") that Caesar left to the Roman people. This underscores their
greed and willingness to betray Caesar's promises to the populace.
3. Whose will is mentioned above? Where is it? On what previous occasion has it been referred to? What
purpose did it serve, then?
→ The will mentioned is Julius Caesar's will.
The will is presumably kept at Caesar’s house, as Antony instructs Lepidus to go there to retrieve it.
The will was previously referred to in Act 3, Scene 2, during Antony's famous funeral oration.
In Act 3, Scene 2, Antony used Caesar's will as a rhetorical tool to sway the Roman crowd against Brutus, Cassius,
and the conspirators. He dramatically revealed that Caesar had left generous legacies to the Roman people, including
money and public use of his private gardens and orchards. This act incited the crowd’s anger and turned them into a
mob, eager to avenge Caesar's death and punish the conspirators. The will served to highlight Caesar’s generosity
and the conspirators’ betrayal, fueling the people’s outrage.
4. What did the will contain? Why does Antony want to change the will?
→ Julius Caesar's will, as revealed by Antony in Act 3, Scene 2, contained generous provisions for the Roman citizens.
Specifically:
1. Each Roman citizen was bequeathed 75 drachmas.
2. Caesar left his private gardens and orchards by the Tiber River to the public for their recreation.
Antony wants to change the will to reduce the financial burden ("cut off some charge in legacies") imposed by
Caesar’s generous bequests. The triumvirs—Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus—are trying to consolidate power and
resources for their military campaigns against Brutus and Cassius. Antony likely views the provisions of the will as
an unnecessary expense and seeks to divert the funds to support their war efforts and strengthen their political
position. This also reflects Antony’s manipulative and pragmatic nature, as he is willing to disregard Caesar’s
intentions for personal and political gain.
5. What do we understand of Antony's nature here? What position did he have in the group at this time? Why?
→ In this scene, Antony's nature is shown to be ruthless, pragmatic, and manipulative. He is willing to exploit Caesar’s
will for personal and political advantage, showing that he cares more about consolidating power than honoring
Caesar's wishes. Antony also displays a sense of superiority, particularly when he refers to Lepidus as a mere tool,
saying Lepidus is "like the ass that bears gold" — an animal that only carries weight without understanding its
purpose. He openly expresses disdain for Lepidus, undermining his role in the triumvirate.
This attitude reflects Antony’s willingness to manipulate others to further his own ends and his ability to ruthlessly
prioritize his ambitions over moral or ethical concerns.
At this time, Antony occupies a dominant position in the trio of triumvirs (Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus). Though
Lepidus and Octavius are both powerful figures, Antony's political experience and his connection to Caesar place
him in a leading role. He has seen more days (i.e., he is older and more experienced), and this gives him a sense of
authority over Octavius, despite Octavius being Caesar's adopted heir.
, Antony’s leadership is further emphasized by the way he manipulates Lepidus and controls the decisions regarding
the distribution of Caesar’s will. His assertion of power also highlights the power dynamics within the triumvirate,
with Antony positioning himself as the more forceful and assertive figure, while Octavius, though ambitious, is
more cautious and still establishing his authority.
B. Antony: "I have seen more days than you;
And though we lay these honors on this man
To ease ourselves of divers sland’rous loads,
He shall but bear them as the ass bears gold,
To groan and sweat under the business,
Either led or driven, as we point the way.
And having brought our treasure where we will,
Then take we down his load, and turn him off,
Like to the empty ass, to shake his ears
And graze in commons."
1. Explain, "I have seen more days than you." To whom does Antony say this? Why?
→ This phrase means "I am older and more experienced than you." Antony is emphasizing his greater life experience,
which he believes gives him superior judgment and authority in their discussions and decisions.
Antony says this to Octavius.
Antony says this to assert his authority and to justify his perspective on Lepidus, whom Antony disparages as
unworthy of being part of their triumvirate. Octavius, younger and less experienced, shows a degree of respect for
Lepidus by calling him a "tried and valiant soldier." Antony counters this by implying that his own judgment,
shaped by age and experience, should carry more weight. Antony wants to persuade Octavius that Lepidus is merely
a tool to be used for their political gain and discarded when no longer useful. This exchange highlights the tension
and power struggle between Antony and Octavius.
2. Who is "this man"? What honors have been given to him? Why have they been given?
→ "This man" refers to Lepidus, one of the members of the triumvirate alongside Antony and Octavius.
Lepidus has been elevated to the position of one of the three rulers of the Roman Empire, sharing power with
Antony and Octavius as part of the triumvirate. This is a significant honor, granting him authority and influence over
the divided Roman territories.
The honors have been given to Lepidus to serve a political purpose rather than because of his individual merit. As
Antony states, Lepidus has been included in the triumvirate to "ease ourselves of divers sland’rous loads." This
suggests that Lepidus' inclusion helps to spread the burden of governance and deflect criticism or opposition that
might arise from Antony and Octavius ruling alone. Antony sees Lepidus as a convenient figurehead—useful for
carrying out tasks and taking blame—but ultimately not deserving of equal power or respect. His role is primarily
utilitarian, chosen for expediency rather than genuine recognition of his abilities.
3. Explain the comparison of this person with an ass.
→ Antony compares Lepidus to an ass (donkey) in his speech, using the metaphor to describe Lepidus' role in the
triumvirate as one of a beast of burden rather than an equal leader. Antony sees Lepidus as someone who carries the
"gold" (the burdens of governance and responsibility) for Antony and Octavius, groaning and sweating under the
weight, but without understanding or independent purpose.
Key aspects of the comparison:
1. Burden-Bearer: Like a donkey carrying heavy gold, Lepidus is expected to perform the laborious tasks of their
rule without question or complaint.
2. Lack of Autonomy: The ass is either "led or driven" by its masters, suggesting that Lepidus is controlled by
Antony and Octavius, unable to act independently or make significant decisions.
3. Disposable Utility: Antony highlights that once Lepidus has served his purpose—bringing their "treasure where
we will"—he will be discarded, much like an empty donkey is sent away to graze in the commons. This
demonstrates Antony’s contempt for Lepidus, viewing him as a tool to be used and then cast aside.
Overall, the comparison underscores Antony’s ruthless pragmatism and his low opinion of Lepidus' worth as a
leader.
4. What is revealed of Antony's character in these lines?
, → In these lines, Antony's character is revealed to be ruthless, manipulative, and pragmatic, but also dismissive and
arrogant. Several key traits are highlighted:
1. Ruthlessness: Antony’s willingness to see Lepidus as nothing more than a tool to bear the weight of power
reflects his cold, calculating nature. He is not interested in moral considerations or fairness but in using people
to serve his own political ambitions.
2. Manipulative: Antony is fully aware of his dominance in the triumvirate and uses his experience and age as
leverage to manipulate Octavius and dismiss Lepidus. He is not concerned with equity or shared authority;
instead, he uses others for his advantage, as seen in how he compares Lepidus to an ass.
3. Arrogance: By stating "I have seen more days than you," Antony places himself above Octavius in both
experience and wisdom, showing his belief that his judgment is superior. This attitude also reflects his sense of
superiority, especially in his dealings with Lepidus, whom he belittles.
4. Disdain for Lepidus: Antony's comparison of Lepidus to an ass reveals his contempt for him. He views
Lepidus as a mere beast of burden, useful only for carrying out tasks and absorbing blame. Antony does not see
Lepidus as a true equal in the triumvirate but as someone who is disposable once their utility is exhausted.
Overall, these lines reveal Antony as a ruthless and opportunistic leader, willing to use and discard others without
hesitation in his quest for power. His cold pragmatism is evident in how he manipulates both Lepidus and Octavius,
positioning himself as the most powerful and decisive figure among them.
C. Octavius: "You may do your will;
But he's a tried and valiant soldier."
Antony: "So is my horse, Octavius, and for that
I do appoint him store of provender.
It is a creature that I teach to fight,
To wind, to stop, to run directly on,
His corporal motion governed by my spirit"
1. Why does Octavius say, "You may do your will"? What was Antony's 'will'?
→ Octavius says, "You may do your will" in response to Antony’s dismissive remarks about Lepidus. Octavius is
essentially conceding to Antony's perspective, acknowledging Antony’s dominance in their discussions and
decisions. While Octavius may have a more favorable view of Lepidus and his abilities, he defers to Antony’s
judgment, allowing him to act as he sees fit.
Antony’s “will” refers to his decision to diminish Lepidus’ role in their triumvirate, effectively treating him as a
subordinate or tool. Antony had already made it clear that Lepidus is not an equal member of their power-sharing
agreement, but instead a person to be manipulated, controlled, and discarded when no longer useful. This is part of
Antony’s broader plan to assert dominance and make strategic moves in their political purges and power
consolidation. In this context, Octavius is acknowledging that Antony has the final say on Lepidus' status, even if it
means sidelining him.
2. In what qualities is Antony's horse similar to this person? Explain the point of comparison here.
→ Antony compares Lepidus to his horse in terms of obedience and control. He says the horse, like Lepidus, is a
creature that he teaches and guides. Just as he trains his horse to fight, stop, run, and follow directions, Antony sees
himself as the one who will direct and control Lepidus, ensuring that Lepidus serves his political needs without
question or autonomy.
The comparison highlights that, like the horse, Lepidus is a tool under Antony’s complete control. The horse’s
physical movements are "governed by [Antony’s] spirit," meaning that the horse acts according to Antony’s will,
without independent thought or action. Similarly, Lepidus is subservient to Antony’s will, being led and directed by
Antony without having any real agency or authority of his own. The point of comparison is to demonstrate Antony's
view that Lepidus, like his horse, is useful only in as much as he can be controlled to carry out specific tasks and
follow orders. Antony sees both as servants to his ambitions, devoid of personal initiative or decision-making power.
3. What is revealed of Octavius's character in these lines?
→ In these lines, Octavius's character is revealed to be cautious, pragmatic, and somewhat respectful of Antony’s
authority, even though he may not fully agree with his perspective on Lepidus.
1. Cautious: When Octavius says, “You may do your will,” he is yielding to Antony's decision without openly
challenging him. This shows that Octavius is careful not to provoke Antony or create conflict, even if he might
have a different view. Rather than pushing back or asserting his own opinion forcefully, Octavius chooses to
defer to Antony’s judgment, possibly recognizing Antony’s experience and power in the current situation.
2. Pragmatic: Octavius is pragmatic in that he recognizes the importance of maintaining the triumvirate's unity,
even if it means making compromises or suppressing his personal feelings. He does not openly protest Antony’s
Act 4 Scene: I
A. Antony: "Fetch the will hither, and we shall determine
How to cut off some charge in legacies."
1. To whom does Antony give this instruction? Who else is present at the time? Where are they?
→ Antony gives this instruction to Lepidus.
The other person present is Octavius.
The stage directions indicate that they are seated at a table, likely in a private setting where they are discussing
political plans and decisions. The exact location is not specified in the text, but it is implied they are in a space
where they can conduct such conspiratorial discussions without interruption.
2. What have they been discussing?
→ Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus have been discussing the list of people who are to be executed as part of their
political purges. They are deciding who among their enemies (or even allies) will be "pricked" for death, which
demonstrates their ruthless consolidation of power. They also address personal matters, such as the deaths of
Lepidus' brother and Antony's nephew, Publius, to which they all coldly consent.
Antony then shifts the focus to Caesar's will, instructing Lepidus to fetch it so they can find ways to reduce the
financial burdens ("cut off some charge in legacies") that Caesar left to the Roman people. This underscores their
greed and willingness to betray Caesar's promises to the populace.
3. Whose will is mentioned above? Where is it? On what previous occasion has it been referred to? What
purpose did it serve, then?
→ The will mentioned is Julius Caesar's will.
The will is presumably kept at Caesar’s house, as Antony instructs Lepidus to go there to retrieve it.
The will was previously referred to in Act 3, Scene 2, during Antony's famous funeral oration.
In Act 3, Scene 2, Antony used Caesar's will as a rhetorical tool to sway the Roman crowd against Brutus, Cassius,
and the conspirators. He dramatically revealed that Caesar had left generous legacies to the Roman people, including
money and public use of his private gardens and orchards. This act incited the crowd’s anger and turned them into a
mob, eager to avenge Caesar's death and punish the conspirators. The will served to highlight Caesar’s generosity
and the conspirators’ betrayal, fueling the people’s outrage.
4. What did the will contain? Why does Antony want to change the will?
→ Julius Caesar's will, as revealed by Antony in Act 3, Scene 2, contained generous provisions for the Roman citizens.
Specifically:
1. Each Roman citizen was bequeathed 75 drachmas.
2. Caesar left his private gardens and orchards by the Tiber River to the public for their recreation.
Antony wants to change the will to reduce the financial burden ("cut off some charge in legacies") imposed by
Caesar’s generous bequests. The triumvirs—Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus—are trying to consolidate power and
resources for their military campaigns against Brutus and Cassius. Antony likely views the provisions of the will as
an unnecessary expense and seeks to divert the funds to support their war efforts and strengthen their political
position. This also reflects Antony’s manipulative and pragmatic nature, as he is willing to disregard Caesar’s
intentions for personal and political gain.
5. What do we understand of Antony's nature here? What position did he have in the group at this time? Why?
→ In this scene, Antony's nature is shown to be ruthless, pragmatic, and manipulative. He is willing to exploit Caesar’s
will for personal and political advantage, showing that he cares more about consolidating power than honoring
Caesar's wishes. Antony also displays a sense of superiority, particularly when he refers to Lepidus as a mere tool,
saying Lepidus is "like the ass that bears gold" — an animal that only carries weight without understanding its
purpose. He openly expresses disdain for Lepidus, undermining his role in the triumvirate.
This attitude reflects Antony’s willingness to manipulate others to further his own ends and his ability to ruthlessly
prioritize his ambitions over moral or ethical concerns.
At this time, Antony occupies a dominant position in the trio of triumvirs (Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus). Though
Lepidus and Octavius are both powerful figures, Antony's political experience and his connection to Caesar place
him in a leading role. He has seen more days (i.e., he is older and more experienced), and this gives him a sense of
authority over Octavius, despite Octavius being Caesar's adopted heir.
, Antony’s leadership is further emphasized by the way he manipulates Lepidus and controls the decisions regarding
the distribution of Caesar’s will. His assertion of power also highlights the power dynamics within the triumvirate,
with Antony positioning himself as the more forceful and assertive figure, while Octavius, though ambitious, is
more cautious and still establishing his authority.
B. Antony: "I have seen more days than you;
And though we lay these honors on this man
To ease ourselves of divers sland’rous loads,
He shall but bear them as the ass bears gold,
To groan and sweat under the business,
Either led or driven, as we point the way.
And having brought our treasure where we will,
Then take we down his load, and turn him off,
Like to the empty ass, to shake his ears
And graze in commons."
1. Explain, "I have seen more days than you." To whom does Antony say this? Why?
→ This phrase means "I am older and more experienced than you." Antony is emphasizing his greater life experience,
which he believes gives him superior judgment and authority in their discussions and decisions.
Antony says this to Octavius.
Antony says this to assert his authority and to justify his perspective on Lepidus, whom Antony disparages as
unworthy of being part of their triumvirate. Octavius, younger and less experienced, shows a degree of respect for
Lepidus by calling him a "tried and valiant soldier." Antony counters this by implying that his own judgment,
shaped by age and experience, should carry more weight. Antony wants to persuade Octavius that Lepidus is merely
a tool to be used for their political gain and discarded when no longer useful. This exchange highlights the tension
and power struggle between Antony and Octavius.
2. Who is "this man"? What honors have been given to him? Why have they been given?
→ "This man" refers to Lepidus, one of the members of the triumvirate alongside Antony and Octavius.
Lepidus has been elevated to the position of one of the three rulers of the Roman Empire, sharing power with
Antony and Octavius as part of the triumvirate. This is a significant honor, granting him authority and influence over
the divided Roman territories.
The honors have been given to Lepidus to serve a political purpose rather than because of his individual merit. As
Antony states, Lepidus has been included in the triumvirate to "ease ourselves of divers sland’rous loads." This
suggests that Lepidus' inclusion helps to spread the burden of governance and deflect criticism or opposition that
might arise from Antony and Octavius ruling alone. Antony sees Lepidus as a convenient figurehead—useful for
carrying out tasks and taking blame—but ultimately not deserving of equal power or respect. His role is primarily
utilitarian, chosen for expediency rather than genuine recognition of his abilities.
3. Explain the comparison of this person with an ass.
→ Antony compares Lepidus to an ass (donkey) in his speech, using the metaphor to describe Lepidus' role in the
triumvirate as one of a beast of burden rather than an equal leader. Antony sees Lepidus as someone who carries the
"gold" (the burdens of governance and responsibility) for Antony and Octavius, groaning and sweating under the
weight, but without understanding or independent purpose.
Key aspects of the comparison:
1. Burden-Bearer: Like a donkey carrying heavy gold, Lepidus is expected to perform the laborious tasks of their
rule without question or complaint.
2. Lack of Autonomy: The ass is either "led or driven" by its masters, suggesting that Lepidus is controlled by
Antony and Octavius, unable to act independently or make significant decisions.
3. Disposable Utility: Antony highlights that once Lepidus has served his purpose—bringing their "treasure where
we will"—he will be discarded, much like an empty donkey is sent away to graze in the commons. This
demonstrates Antony’s contempt for Lepidus, viewing him as a tool to be used and then cast aside.
Overall, the comparison underscores Antony’s ruthless pragmatism and his low opinion of Lepidus' worth as a
leader.
4. What is revealed of Antony's character in these lines?
, → In these lines, Antony's character is revealed to be ruthless, manipulative, and pragmatic, but also dismissive and
arrogant. Several key traits are highlighted:
1. Ruthlessness: Antony’s willingness to see Lepidus as nothing more than a tool to bear the weight of power
reflects his cold, calculating nature. He is not interested in moral considerations or fairness but in using people
to serve his own political ambitions.
2. Manipulative: Antony is fully aware of his dominance in the triumvirate and uses his experience and age as
leverage to manipulate Octavius and dismiss Lepidus. He is not concerned with equity or shared authority;
instead, he uses others for his advantage, as seen in how he compares Lepidus to an ass.
3. Arrogance: By stating "I have seen more days than you," Antony places himself above Octavius in both
experience and wisdom, showing his belief that his judgment is superior. This attitude also reflects his sense of
superiority, especially in his dealings with Lepidus, whom he belittles.
4. Disdain for Lepidus: Antony's comparison of Lepidus to an ass reveals his contempt for him. He views
Lepidus as a mere beast of burden, useful only for carrying out tasks and absorbing blame. Antony does not see
Lepidus as a true equal in the triumvirate but as someone who is disposable once their utility is exhausted.
Overall, these lines reveal Antony as a ruthless and opportunistic leader, willing to use and discard others without
hesitation in his quest for power. His cold pragmatism is evident in how he manipulates both Lepidus and Octavius,
positioning himself as the most powerful and decisive figure among them.
C. Octavius: "You may do your will;
But he's a tried and valiant soldier."
Antony: "So is my horse, Octavius, and for that
I do appoint him store of provender.
It is a creature that I teach to fight,
To wind, to stop, to run directly on,
His corporal motion governed by my spirit"
1. Why does Octavius say, "You may do your will"? What was Antony's 'will'?
→ Octavius says, "You may do your will" in response to Antony’s dismissive remarks about Lepidus. Octavius is
essentially conceding to Antony's perspective, acknowledging Antony’s dominance in their discussions and
decisions. While Octavius may have a more favorable view of Lepidus and his abilities, he defers to Antony’s
judgment, allowing him to act as he sees fit.
Antony’s “will” refers to his decision to diminish Lepidus’ role in their triumvirate, effectively treating him as a
subordinate or tool. Antony had already made it clear that Lepidus is not an equal member of their power-sharing
agreement, but instead a person to be manipulated, controlled, and discarded when no longer useful. This is part of
Antony’s broader plan to assert dominance and make strategic moves in their political purges and power
consolidation. In this context, Octavius is acknowledging that Antony has the final say on Lepidus' status, even if it
means sidelining him.
2. In what qualities is Antony's horse similar to this person? Explain the point of comparison here.
→ Antony compares Lepidus to his horse in terms of obedience and control. He says the horse, like Lepidus, is a
creature that he teaches and guides. Just as he trains his horse to fight, stop, run, and follow directions, Antony sees
himself as the one who will direct and control Lepidus, ensuring that Lepidus serves his political needs without
question or autonomy.
The comparison highlights that, like the horse, Lepidus is a tool under Antony’s complete control. The horse’s
physical movements are "governed by [Antony’s] spirit," meaning that the horse acts according to Antony’s will,
without independent thought or action. Similarly, Lepidus is subservient to Antony’s will, being led and directed by
Antony without having any real agency or authority of his own. The point of comparison is to demonstrate Antony's
view that Lepidus, like his horse, is useful only in as much as he can be controlled to carry out specific tasks and
follow orders. Antony sees both as servants to his ambitions, devoid of personal initiative or decision-making power.
3. What is revealed of Octavius's character in these lines?
→ In these lines, Octavius's character is revealed to be cautious, pragmatic, and somewhat respectful of Antony’s
authority, even though he may not fully agree with his perspective on Lepidus.
1. Cautious: When Octavius says, “You may do your will,” he is yielding to Antony's decision without openly
challenging him. This shows that Octavius is careful not to provoke Antony or create conflict, even if he might
have a different view. Rather than pushing back or asserting his own opinion forcefully, Octavius chooses to
defer to Antony’s judgment, possibly recognizing Antony’s experience and power in the current situation.
2. Pragmatic: Octavius is pragmatic in that he recognizes the importance of maintaining the triumvirate's unity,
even if it means making compromises or suppressing his personal feelings. He does not openly protest Antony’s
