Julius Caesar Noble Analysis

In order for a character to be considered a tragic hero they must be a noble person with a fatal flaw that eventually leads to their death. With The Tragedy of Julius Caesar there have been disagreements about the true tragic hero of the play. Some argue that Julius Caesar himself fits the criteria, while others believe that Brutus was actually the tragic hero. Using quotes and events within the tragedy it’s easy to draw the conclusion that Brutus is the tragic hero, since he proves many times that he is noble. He also has a fatal flaw that causes his defeat. In addition, Brutus is the main character of the play, something tragic heros traditionally are. Brutus proves himself as noble many times throughout the play. He has a high social standing in Rome, something common among tragic heros. Even in the most trying hours he is extremely consistent with his morals, and always strives to keep his honor. His goals of the conspiracy were purely for the good of Rome, not of envy or the benefit of himself. Antony himself recognizes him, since after his death he stated:
This was the noblest Roman of them all.
All the conspirators save only he
Did that they did in envy of great Caesar;
He, only in general honest thought
And common good to all, made one of them.
His life was gentle, and the elements
So
The flaw of Brutus is his naiviety and trustworthiness. He is deceived by all of those around him. This is partially because of his focus on what he believes to be right, and also because he appears to have a poor judgment in character. For instance, Cassius is able to persuade Brutus to join the conspiracy. Caesar himself recognized that there was something not right about Cassius: “Yond Cassius has a lean and hungry look; / He thinks too much: such men are dangerous.” (1.2.191-92) Nevertheless, Brutus is unable to recognize that in reality Cassius is a manipulator. Using careful language Cassius is able to sway