Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare
Act 3: Scene I
A. Caesar: "What touches us ourself shall be last served."
1. To whom does Caesar say these words? When? What does his plural 'us' for himself convey?
→ Caesar says these words to Artemidorus, who tries to present him with a letter warning him about the conspiracy
against his life.
Caesar says this just before entering the Senate House, where he is eventually assassinated. Artemidorus is
attempting to hand Caesar the letter immediately, but Caesar dismisses him, insisting that personal matters should
wait until after he attends to the concerns of the state.
The use of "us" in place of "me" reflects Caesar's self-perception as a figure of authority and a representative of
Rome. It implies his belief in the unity between himself and the state, emphasizing his elevated status, power, and
the idea that he embodies the collective will of the Roman people. This royal or majestic plural was often used by
rulers to signify their position as more than an individual, aligning with their role as a symbol of sovereignty and
governance.
2. What day is it? Why is this day important? Who is the other person trying to warn Caesar? What is Caesar's
reaction to him?
→ It is the Ides of March, which corresponds to March 15th in the Roman calendar.
The Ides of March is significant because it was the day a soothsayer had previously warned Caesar to beware. It
becomes historically pivotal as the day of Caesar's assassination by a group of conspirators, marking a turning point
in Roman history and the end of Caesar's rule.
The other person attempting to warn Caesar is Artemidorus, a teacher and supporter of Caesar. He tries to present
Caesar with a written letter detailing the conspiracy against him and naming the conspirators.
Caesar dismisses Artemidorus's warning, saying, "What touches us ourself shall be last served." This reflects
Caesar's belief that he must prioritize public matters over personal concerns. He views Artemidorus’s insistence as
unimportant or perhaps even inappropriate at the time, choosing to ignore the warning and proceed to the Senate,
where the conspirators await him.
3. How do the conspirators obstruct those trying to warn Caesar?
→ The conspirators obstruct those trying to warn Caesar by creating distractions and isolating him. When Artemidorus
tries to deliver his letter revealing the conspiracy, they dismiss his urgency by presenting their own petitions to
Caesar, diverting his attention. Caesar, influenced by their interruptions and his own pride, refuses to prioritize
Artemidorus’s plea, stating, "What touches us ourself shall be last served." Meanwhile, the Soothsayer’s warning
about the Ides of March is ignored in the commotion as the conspirators ensure Caesar stays focused on proceeding
to the Senate. Additionally, Trebonius separates Mark Antony from Caesar, ensuring he cannot intervene. By
surrounding and distracting Caesar, the conspirators effectively silence those attempting to alert him to the danger.
4. Who steps in as one of Caesar's well-wishers and hands him a letter? Why? Concerning the previous scenes,
show how this person's fears were justified.
→ Artemidorus steps in as one of Caesar’s well-wishers and hands him a letter. He does so because he has learned
about the conspiracy to assassinate Caesar and wishes to warn him. Artemidorus's letter explicitly names the
conspirators and urges Caesar to beware of their treachery.
In previous scenes, Artemidorus expresses his fears by reading the letter aloud, revealing his deep concern for
Caesar’s safety. He understands the gravity of the situation and the urgency of delivering the warning. His fears are
justified because, despite his efforts, Caesar dismisses his plea, influenced by his pride and the distractions created
by the conspirators. Caesar’s disregard for Artemidorus’s warning leads directly to his assassination, proving that
Artemidorus’s apprehensions were well-founded and tragically accurate.
5. Paraphrase the line quoted above. What does it reveal about Caesar?
→ The line "What touches us ourself shall be last served" can be paraphrased as: "What concerns me personally will be
dealt with last."
This reveals Caesar’s arrogance and his sense of grandeur. By referring to himself in the plural ("us"), he conveys
his belief in his elevated status as a ruler and a figure of immense importance. Additionally, his dismissal of
Artemidorus’s urgent warning reflects his overconfidence and a belief that his position makes him invulnerable.
This hubris blinds him to the danger at hand, highlighting a fatal flaw in his character.
6. Who else makes the conspirators feel insecure? How? What reassures them?
,→ Popilius Lena makes the conspirators feel insecure when he approaches Cassius and wishes him success in their
"enterprise," implying he knows about the assassination plot. This statement causes Cassius to fear that their
conspiracy has been discovered. The conspirators worry that Popilius might expose their plan to Caesar, potentially
thwarting their mission.
However, their fears are alleviated when they observe Popilius smiling and speaking to Caesar without any apparent
alarm or change in Caesar’s demeanor. This reassures them that Popilius has not betrayed their plot, allowing them
to proceed with their plan.
B. Caesar: "These couchings and these lowly courtesies
Might fire the blood of ordinary men,
And turn pre-ordinance and first decree
Into the law of children."
1. To whom is Caesar speaking? What tone does he use and why?
→ Caesar is speaking to Metellus Cimber, who kneels before him to plead for the repeal of his brother’s banishment.
Caesar uses a tone of arrogance and condescension, emphasizing his superiority and immovability. He dismisses
Metellus’s humble gestures, calling them unbecoming of someone seeking to change a decree. Caesar views himself
as resolute and unyielding, far above the influence of flattery or emotional appeals. This tone reflects his pride and
belief in his absolute authority, foreshadowing his tragic downfall.
2. What has this person just asked Caesar? What is Caesar's reaction?
→ Metellus Cimber has just asked Caesar to repeal the banishment of his brother, Publius Cimber. He kneels before
Caesar, pleading humbly for mercy and forgiveness.
Caesar reacts dismissively and arrogantly. He refuses the request outright, declaring that such gestures of humility
and flattery might sway "ordinary men" but not him. Caesar asserts that he is resolute and unchanging, comparing
himself to the "northern star"—constant and steadfast in his decisions. His refusal highlights his belief in his own
infallibility and unwillingness to appear weak or indecisive.
3. What are the other conspirators doing at this time? Why?
→ At this time, the other conspirators are surrounding Caesar under the pretense of supporting Metellus Cimber’s plea.
They are engaging in a coordinated effort to flatter and appeal to Caesar, each taking turns to kneel and request the
repeal of Publius Cimber’s banishment.
This collective action serves as a distraction and a way to position themselves close to Caesar, ensuring they are in
place to carry out the assassination. The conspirators use this ruse to mask their true intentions and disarm any
suspicion Caesar might have, allowing them to strike at the opportune moment.
4. Explain the last two lines.
→ The last two lines of the excerpt are:
"And turn pre-ordinance and first decree
Into the law of children."
In these lines, Caesar is emphasizing his disdain for being swayed by flattery or emotional appeals. He asserts that
allowing such "couchings" (acts of humility) to influence him would reduce the authority of his decisions to
something capricious and easily overturned, akin to the whims of children.
This reveals Caesar’s belief in the sanctity and immutability of his authority and decrees. He views himself as above
human weakness and firmly committed to his rulings, reinforcing his portrayal as an unyielding and arrogant leader.
These words also foreshadow his downfall, as his refusal to heed warnings or adapt ultimately leads to his demise.
C. Caesar: "I could be well moved, if I were as you;
If I could pray to move, prayers would move me.
But I am constant as the northern star,
Of whose true-fixed and resting quality
There is no fellow in the firmament."
1. Who makes Caesar say these words? How?
→ Caesar says these words in response to Metellus Cimber, who pleads with him to revoke the banishment of his
brother, Publius Cimber. Metellus kneels before Caesar and humbles himself, attempting to appeal to Caesar's mercy
and compassion.
This display of flattery and supplication prompts Caesar to respond with these words, expressing his immovable
nature and his refusal to be swayed by emotional appeals. Caesar's metaphor of the northern star highlights his belief
in his own constancy and unchanging authority, contrasting himself with others who he sees as more easily
influenced.
,2. Who all has given him a petition before this? In what manner?
→ Before Metellus Cimber presents his petition to Caesar, Artemidorus and Decius Brutus also attempt to engage
Caesar with their appeals, though for different reasons:
Artemidorus:
• Petition: Artemidorus tries to warn Caesar of the conspiracy against him by presenting a letter detailing the
names of the conspirators and their plot.
• Manner: He is urgent and insistent, urging Caesar to read the letter immediately as it pertains directly to
Caesar's safety. However, Caesar dismisses him, declaring that matters concerning himself will be addressed
last.
Decius Brutus:
• Petition: Decius Brutus asks Caesar to read a suit presented by Trebonius (another conspirator).
• Manner: Decius approaches with calculated humility, masking the conspirators' intentions under the guise of
loyal subjects presenting their petitions.
Both appeals are met with Caesar's dismissive or condescending attitude, showcasing his arrogance and sense of
invulnerability. This pattern of ignoring or downplaying warnings and petitions sets the stage for his eventual
downfall.
3. How does Shakespeare build up the tension till the assassination? Why is Caesar made to speak arrogantly
and conceitedly? Is the purpose achieved? How?
→ Shakespeare masterfully builds up the tension leading to Caesar's assassination by employing a combination of
ominous foreshadowing, dramatic irony, and Caesar's own arrogance. Here's how the tension is heightened:
1. Warnings and Omens:The soothsayer’s repeated warnings about the "Ides of March" and Artemidorus's
urgent plea underscore a sense of impending doom. Caesar's dismissal of these warnings amplifies the
audience’s anticipation, as they know the conspirators' plot while Caesar remains oblivious.
2. The Conspirators' Behavior: The conspirators gather around Caesar under the pretense of presenting
petitions, creating an atmosphere of deceit and treachery. Their overly humble gestures and repeated
pleas for Publius Cimber's repeal heighten the sense that something sinister is about to occur.
3. Caesar's Arrogant Demeanor: Caesar's self-assured declarations, such as comparing himself to the
"northern star," emphasize his belief in his own immortality and infallibility. His dismissive attitude
toward others’ concerns showcases his hubris, alienating him further from the audience's sympathy and
highlighting his blindness to the threat.
Shakespeare portrays Caesar as arrogant and conceited to:
• Highlight his tragic flaw: Caesar's hubris blinds him to the danger around him, making his assassination seem
inevitable.
• Juxtapose his humanity and fallibility: By elevating Caesar's arrogance, Shakespeare sharpens the contrast
with his vulnerability, making his death more impactful.
• Justify the conspirators' actions: Caesar's overconfidence and dismissal of others' voices reinforce the
conspirators’ belief that his removal is necessary for the republic.
Yes, the purpose is achieved effectively. Caesar’s arrogance creates dramatic irony as the audience knows his
downfall is imminent while he believes himself invincible. This dramatic tension keeps the audience engaged and
makes the moment of his assassination—when the "immortal" Caesar falls with the words, "Et tu, Brute?"—a
powerful climax that underscores the themes of betrayal, ambition, and fate.
4. Where is Antony at this time? How was this achieved, and why?
→ At the time of Caesar's assassination, Mark Antony is deliberately kept away from the Senate chamber. The
conspirators had planned this to prevent Antony, a loyal supporter and close ally of Caesar, from interfering with
their plot or rallying support for Caesar during the act.
Trebonius, one of the conspirators, ensures Antony's absence by engaging him in conversation outside the Senate.
This subtle maneuver keeps Antony physically distant from the scene, ensuring he cannot defend Caesar or disrupt
their carefully orchestrated plan.
The conspirators view Antony as a significant threat due to his loyalty, charisma, and influence. They fear that if
Antony is present, he might either protect Caesar or incite resistance against them immediately after the
assassination. By neutralizing Antony temporarily, they hope to execute their plan without opposition and take
control of the political narrative in the aftermath of Caesar's death.
This strategy reflects the conspirators’ meticulous planning but also foreshadows their miscalculation of Antony's
eventual role in turning the Roman populace against them through his masterful funeral oration.
, 5. Explain the last three lines of the extract. What does "no fellow" mean here? What does Caesar reveal about
himself here?
→ In the last three lines of the extract, Caesar declares:
"But I am constant as the northern star,
Of whose true-fixed and resting quality
There is no fellow in the firmament."
"No fellow" means no equal. Caesar compares himself to the northern star, which is unique and unchanging in the
night sky, steadfast while other stars seem to shift. He asserts that, like this star, he is unparalleled in his
steadfastness, unyielding in his decisions, and resolute in his authority.This statement is deeply symbolic. The
northern star has historically been a guide for travelers, representing constancy and reliability. By likening himself
to it, Caesar implies that he is a leader whose judgments and decrees are firm and should guide Rome unwaveringly.
Through this metaphor, Caesar reveals his pride, arrogance, and belief in his own infallibility. He sees himself as
exceptional, above the influence of others, and immune to persuasion or change. This portrayal of Caesar as self-
assured and unyielding heightens the dramatic irony, as the audience knows that his "constancy" will soon be
shattered by the conspirators’ betrayal. His words emphasize his tragic flaw: his hubris, which blinds him to the
danger around him and contributes to his downfall.
D. Trebonius: "Fled to his house, amaz'd
Men, wives, and children stare, cry out, and run,
As it were doomsday."
1. What are the above lines a description of? Who does "his " refer to? What does "amaz'd" mean here?
→ These lines describe the chaotic and fearful reaction of the Roman citizens immediately after Caesar's assassination.
The streets are in turmoil, with men, women, and children panicking, crying out, and running as if the end of the
world (doomsday) has arrived.
The pronoun "his" refers to Mark Antony. After Caesar's assassination, Trebonius notes that Antony has fled to his
house, fearing for his life and shocked by the events.
In this context, "amaz'd" means shocked, bewildered, or stunned. Antony is overwhelmed by the unexpected and
violent turn of events, as he likely anticipated political tension but not such brutal action.
These lines vividly convey the immediate aftermath of Caesar's assassination, highlighting both the public's panic
and Antony's astonishment and retreat as he contemplates the unfolding consequences.
2. How do the other senators, particularly Publius, react to the assassination? How does Brutus reassure them?
→ After Caesar's assassination, the senators, including Publius, react with shock and confusion. Publius is notably
confounded, indicating that he is overwhelmed by the suddenness and violence of the act. He is unsure of what to do
or how to respond in such an unprecedented situation. The public turmoil and the act of betrayal by the conspirators
leave the senators rattled and disoriented.
Brutus attempts to reassure the senators by emphasizing that no harm is intended towards them. He urges Publius
and the other senators to remain calm, assuring them that the conspirators do not seek retribution against any Roman
citizens, especially the senators themselves. He tells Publius to spread the word that no one else is in danger and that
they should not be afraid. Brutus' intention is to prevent further panic and ensure that the senators do not turn against
the conspirators, positioning the assassination as a political act rather than a personal vendetta.
The senators, including Publius, are startled by Caesar's assassination, but Brutus reassures them that their safety is
not at risk, attempting to maintain order and gain their cooperation in the aftermath.
3. What do you understand by "doomsday"? How do later events fill this statement with tragic irony?
→ The term "doomsday" traditionally refers to the end of the world, a catastrophic event where everything comes to an
abrupt and devastating end. In the context of the scene in Julius Caesar, the chaotic reaction of the citizens and the
panic they experience after Caesar's assassination leads them to believe that the world as they know it has ended, or
that some irreversible disaster is taking place. The description of "men, wives, and children" running and crying out
suggests that the murder has thrown Rome into a state of fear and uncertainty, as if society itself is collapsing.
The statement is filled with tragic irony because, although the conspirators believed they were ending Caesar’s rule
to restore Rome's republic, their actions actually set in motion a series of tragic events that would destroy Rome in a
different way:
1. Civil War and Bloodshed:
Instead of bringing peace and freedom to Rome, the assassination leads to civil war between the forces of Brutus
and Cassius on one side, and Mark Antony and Octavian on the other. The once unified empire is torn apart by
internal strife.
Act 3: Scene I
A. Caesar: "What touches us ourself shall be last served."
1. To whom does Caesar say these words? When? What does his plural 'us' for himself convey?
→ Caesar says these words to Artemidorus, who tries to present him with a letter warning him about the conspiracy
against his life.
Caesar says this just before entering the Senate House, where he is eventually assassinated. Artemidorus is
attempting to hand Caesar the letter immediately, but Caesar dismisses him, insisting that personal matters should
wait until after he attends to the concerns of the state.
The use of "us" in place of "me" reflects Caesar's self-perception as a figure of authority and a representative of
Rome. It implies his belief in the unity between himself and the state, emphasizing his elevated status, power, and
the idea that he embodies the collective will of the Roman people. This royal or majestic plural was often used by
rulers to signify their position as more than an individual, aligning with their role as a symbol of sovereignty and
governance.
2. What day is it? Why is this day important? Who is the other person trying to warn Caesar? What is Caesar's
reaction to him?
→ It is the Ides of March, which corresponds to March 15th in the Roman calendar.
The Ides of March is significant because it was the day a soothsayer had previously warned Caesar to beware. It
becomes historically pivotal as the day of Caesar's assassination by a group of conspirators, marking a turning point
in Roman history and the end of Caesar's rule.
The other person attempting to warn Caesar is Artemidorus, a teacher and supporter of Caesar. He tries to present
Caesar with a written letter detailing the conspiracy against him and naming the conspirators.
Caesar dismisses Artemidorus's warning, saying, "What touches us ourself shall be last served." This reflects
Caesar's belief that he must prioritize public matters over personal concerns. He views Artemidorus’s insistence as
unimportant or perhaps even inappropriate at the time, choosing to ignore the warning and proceed to the Senate,
where the conspirators await him.
3. How do the conspirators obstruct those trying to warn Caesar?
→ The conspirators obstruct those trying to warn Caesar by creating distractions and isolating him. When Artemidorus
tries to deliver his letter revealing the conspiracy, they dismiss his urgency by presenting their own petitions to
Caesar, diverting his attention. Caesar, influenced by their interruptions and his own pride, refuses to prioritize
Artemidorus’s plea, stating, "What touches us ourself shall be last served." Meanwhile, the Soothsayer’s warning
about the Ides of March is ignored in the commotion as the conspirators ensure Caesar stays focused on proceeding
to the Senate. Additionally, Trebonius separates Mark Antony from Caesar, ensuring he cannot intervene. By
surrounding and distracting Caesar, the conspirators effectively silence those attempting to alert him to the danger.
4. Who steps in as one of Caesar's well-wishers and hands him a letter? Why? Concerning the previous scenes,
show how this person's fears were justified.
→ Artemidorus steps in as one of Caesar’s well-wishers and hands him a letter. He does so because he has learned
about the conspiracy to assassinate Caesar and wishes to warn him. Artemidorus's letter explicitly names the
conspirators and urges Caesar to beware of their treachery.
In previous scenes, Artemidorus expresses his fears by reading the letter aloud, revealing his deep concern for
Caesar’s safety. He understands the gravity of the situation and the urgency of delivering the warning. His fears are
justified because, despite his efforts, Caesar dismisses his plea, influenced by his pride and the distractions created
by the conspirators. Caesar’s disregard for Artemidorus’s warning leads directly to his assassination, proving that
Artemidorus’s apprehensions were well-founded and tragically accurate.
5. Paraphrase the line quoted above. What does it reveal about Caesar?
→ The line "What touches us ourself shall be last served" can be paraphrased as: "What concerns me personally will be
dealt with last."
This reveals Caesar’s arrogance and his sense of grandeur. By referring to himself in the plural ("us"), he conveys
his belief in his elevated status as a ruler and a figure of immense importance. Additionally, his dismissal of
Artemidorus’s urgent warning reflects his overconfidence and a belief that his position makes him invulnerable.
This hubris blinds him to the danger at hand, highlighting a fatal flaw in his character.
6. Who else makes the conspirators feel insecure? How? What reassures them?
,→ Popilius Lena makes the conspirators feel insecure when he approaches Cassius and wishes him success in their
"enterprise," implying he knows about the assassination plot. This statement causes Cassius to fear that their
conspiracy has been discovered. The conspirators worry that Popilius might expose their plan to Caesar, potentially
thwarting their mission.
However, their fears are alleviated when they observe Popilius smiling and speaking to Caesar without any apparent
alarm or change in Caesar’s demeanor. This reassures them that Popilius has not betrayed their plot, allowing them
to proceed with their plan.
B. Caesar: "These couchings and these lowly courtesies
Might fire the blood of ordinary men,
And turn pre-ordinance and first decree
Into the law of children."
1. To whom is Caesar speaking? What tone does he use and why?
→ Caesar is speaking to Metellus Cimber, who kneels before him to plead for the repeal of his brother’s banishment.
Caesar uses a tone of arrogance and condescension, emphasizing his superiority and immovability. He dismisses
Metellus’s humble gestures, calling them unbecoming of someone seeking to change a decree. Caesar views himself
as resolute and unyielding, far above the influence of flattery or emotional appeals. This tone reflects his pride and
belief in his absolute authority, foreshadowing his tragic downfall.
2. What has this person just asked Caesar? What is Caesar's reaction?
→ Metellus Cimber has just asked Caesar to repeal the banishment of his brother, Publius Cimber. He kneels before
Caesar, pleading humbly for mercy and forgiveness.
Caesar reacts dismissively and arrogantly. He refuses the request outright, declaring that such gestures of humility
and flattery might sway "ordinary men" but not him. Caesar asserts that he is resolute and unchanging, comparing
himself to the "northern star"—constant and steadfast in his decisions. His refusal highlights his belief in his own
infallibility and unwillingness to appear weak or indecisive.
3. What are the other conspirators doing at this time? Why?
→ At this time, the other conspirators are surrounding Caesar under the pretense of supporting Metellus Cimber’s plea.
They are engaging in a coordinated effort to flatter and appeal to Caesar, each taking turns to kneel and request the
repeal of Publius Cimber’s banishment.
This collective action serves as a distraction and a way to position themselves close to Caesar, ensuring they are in
place to carry out the assassination. The conspirators use this ruse to mask their true intentions and disarm any
suspicion Caesar might have, allowing them to strike at the opportune moment.
4. Explain the last two lines.
→ The last two lines of the excerpt are:
"And turn pre-ordinance and first decree
Into the law of children."
In these lines, Caesar is emphasizing his disdain for being swayed by flattery or emotional appeals. He asserts that
allowing such "couchings" (acts of humility) to influence him would reduce the authority of his decisions to
something capricious and easily overturned, akin to the whims of children.
This reveals Caesar’s belief in the sanctity and immutability of his authority and decrees. He views himself as above
human weakness and firmly committed to his rulings, reinforcing his portrayal as an unyielding and arrogant leader.
These words also foreshadow his downfall, as his refusal to heed warnings or adapt ultimately leads to his demise.
C. Caesar: "I could be well moved, if I were as you;
If I could pray to move, prayers would move me.
But I am constant as the northern star,
Of whose true-fixed and resting quality
There is no fellow in the firmament."
1. Who makes Caesar say these words? How?
→ Caesar says these words in response to Metellus Cimber, who pleads with him to revoke the banishment of his
brother, Publius Cimber. Metellus kneels before Caesar and humbles himself, attempting to appeal to Caesar's mercy
and compassion.
This display of flattery and supplication prompts Caesar to respond with these words, expressing his immovable
nature and his refusal to be swayed by emotional appeals. Caesar's metaphor of the northern star highlights his belief
in his own constancy and unchanging authority, contrasting himself with others who he sees as more easily
influenced.
,2. Who all has given him a petition before this? In what manner?
→ Before Metellus Cimber presents his petition to Caesar, Artemidorus and Decius Brutus also attempt to engage
Caesar with their appeals, though for different reasons:
Artemidorus:
• Petition: Artemidorus tries to warn Caesar of the conspiracy against him by presenting a letter detailing the
names of the conspirators and their plot.
• Manner: He is urgent and insistent, urging Caesar to read the letter immediately as it pertains directly to
Caesar's safety. However, Caesar dismisses him, declaring that matters concerning himself will be addressed
last.
Decius Brutus:
• Petition: Decius Brutus asks Caesar to read a suit presented by Trebonius (another conspirator).
• Manner: Decius approaches with calculated humility, masking the conspirators' intentions under the guise of
loyal subjects presenting their petitions.
Both appeals are met with Caesar's dismissive or condescending attitude, showcasing his arrogance and sense of
invulnerability. This pattern of ignoring or downplaying warnings and petitions sets the stage for his eventual
downfall.
3. How does Shakespeare build up the tension till the assassination? Why is Caesar made to speak arrogantly
and conceitedly? Is the purpose achieved? How?
→ Shakespeare masterfully builds up the tension leading to Caesar's assassination by employing a combination of
ominous foreshadowing, dramatic irony, and Caesar's own arrogance. Here's how the tension is heightened:
1. Warnings and Omens:The soothsayer’s repeated warnings about the "Ides of March" and Artemidorus's
urgent plea underscore a sense of impending doom. Caesar's dismissal of these warnings amplifies the
audience’s anticipation, as they know the conspirators' plot while Caesar remains oblivious.
2. The Conspirators' Behavior: The conspirators gather around Caesar under the pretense of presenting
petitions, creating an atmosphere of deceit and treachery. Their overly humble gestures and repeated
pleas for Publius Cimber's repeal heighten the sense that something sinister is about to occur.
3. Caesar's Arrogant Demeanor: Caesar's self-assured declarations, such as comparing himself to the
"northern star," emphasize his belief in his own immortality and infallibility. His dismissive attitude
toward others’ concerns showcases his hubris, alienating him further from the audience's sympathy and
highlighting his blindness to the threat.
Shakespeare portrays Caesar as arrogant and conceited to:
• Highlight his tragic flaw: Caesar's hubris blinds him to the danger around him, making his assassination seem
inevitable.
• Juxtapose his humanity and fallibility: By elevating Caesar's arrogance, Shakespeare sharpens the contrast
with his vulnerability, making his death more impactful.
• Justify the conspirators' actions: Caesar's overconfidence and dismissal of others' voices reinforce the
conspirators’ belief that his removal is necessary for the republic.
Yes, the purpose is achieved effectively. Caesar’s arrogance creates dramatic irony as the audience knows his
downfall is imminent while he believes himself invincible. This dramatic tension keeps the audience engaged and
makes the moment of his assassination—when the "immortal" Caesar falls with the words, "Et tu, Brute?"—a
powerful climax that underscores the themes of betrayal, ambition, and fate.
4. Where is Antony at this time? How was this achieved, and why?
→ At the time of Caesar's assassination, Mark Antony is deliberately kept away from the Senate chamber. The
conspirators had planned this to prevent Antony, a loyal supporter and close ally of Caesar, from interfering with
their plot or rallying support for Caesar during the act.
Trebonius, one of the conspirators, ensures Antony's absence by engaging him in conversation outside the Senate.
This subtle maneuver keeps Antony physically distant from the scene, ensuring he cannot defend Caesar or disrupt
their carefully orchestrated plan.
The conspirators view Antony as a significant threat due to his loyalty, charisma, and influence. They fear that if
Antony is present, he might either protect Caesar or incite resistance against them immediately after the
assassination. By neutralizing Antony temporarily, they hope to execute their plan without opposition and take
control of the political narrative in the aftermath of Caesar's death.
This strategy reflects the conspirators’ meticulous planning but also foreshadows their miscalculation of Antony's
eventual role in turning the Roman populace against them through his masterful funeral oration.
, 5. Explain the last three lines of the extract. What does "no fellow" mean here? What does Caesar reveal about
himself here?
→ In the last three lines of the extract, Caesar declares:
"But I am constant as the northern star,
Of whose true-fixed and resting quality
There is no fellow in the firmament."
"No fellow" means no equal. Caesar compares himself to the northern star, which is unique and unchanging in the
night sky, steadfast while other stars seem to shift. He asserts that, like this star, he is unparalleled in his
steadfastness, unyielding in his decisions, and resolute in his authority.This statement is deeply symbolic. The
northern star has historically been a guide for travelers, representing constancy and reliability. By likening himself
to it, Caesar implies that he is a leader whose judgments and decrees are firm and should guide Rome unwaveringly.
Through this metaphor, Caesar reveals his pride, arrogance, and belief in his own infallibility. He sees himself as
exceptional, above the influence of others, and immune to persuasion or change. This portrayal of Caesar as self-
assured and unyielding heightens the dramatic irony, as the audience knows that his "constancy" will soon be
shattered by the conspirators’ betrayal. His words emphasize his tragic flaw: his hubris, which blinds him to the
danger around him and contributes to his downfall.
D. Trebonius: "Fled to his house, amaz'd
Men, wives, and children stare, cry out, and run,
As it were doomsday."
1. What are the above lines a description of? Who does "his " refer to? What does "amaz'd" mean here?
→ These lines describe the chaotic and fearful reaction of the Roman citizens immediately after Caesar's assassination.
The streets are in turmoil, with men, women, and children panicking, crying out, and running as if the end of the
world (doomsday) has arrived.
The pronoun "his" refers to Mark Antony. After Caesar's assassination, Trebonius notes that Antony has fled to his
house, fearing for his life and shocked by the events.
In this context, "amaz'd" means shocked, bewildered, or stunned. Antony is overwhelmed by the unexpected and
violent turn of events, as he likely anticipated political tension but not such brutal action.
These lines vividly convey the immediate aftermath of Caesar's assassination, highlighting both the public's panic
and Antony's astonishment and retreat as he contemplates the unfolding consequences.
2. How do the other senators, particularly Publius, react to the assassination? How does Brutus reassure them?
→ After Caesar's assassination, the senators, including Publius, react with shock and confusion. Publius is notably
confounded, indicating that he is overwhelmed by the suddenness and violence of the act. He is unsure of what to do
or how to respond in such an unprecedented situation. The public turmoil and the act of betrayal by the conspirators
leave the senators rattled and disoriented.
Brutus attempts to reassure the senators by emphasizing that no harm is intended towards them. He urges Publius
and the other senators to remain calm, assuring them that the conspirators do not seek retribution against any Roman
citizens, especially the senators themselves. He tells Publius to spread the word that no one else is in danger and that
they should not be afraid. Brutus' intention is to prevent further panic and ensure that the senators do not turn against
the conspirators, positioning the assassination as a political act rather than a personal vendetta.
The senators, including Publius, are startled by Caesar's assassination, but Brutus reassures them that their safety is
not at risk, attempting to maintain order and gain their cooperation in the aftermath.
3. What do you understand by "doomsday"? How do later events fill this statement with tragic irony?
→ The term "doomsday" traditionally refers to the end of the world, a catastrophic event where everything comes to an
abrupt and devastating end. In the context of the scene in Julius Caesar, the chaotic reaction of the citizens and the
panic they experience after Caesar's assassination leads them to believe that the world as they know it has ended, or
that some irreversible disaster is taking place. The description of "men, wives, and children" running and crying out
suggests that the murder has thrown Rome into a state of fear and uncertainty, as if society itself is collapsing.
The statement is filled with tragic irony because, although the conspirators believed they were ending Caesar’s rule
to restore Rome's republic, their actions actually set in motion a series of tragic events that would destroy Rome in a
different way:
1. Civil War and Bloodshed:
Instead of bringing peace and freedom to Rome, the assassination leads to civil war between the forces of Brutus
and Cassius on one side, and Mark Antony and Octavian on the other. The once unified empire is torn apart by
internal strife.
