Julius Caesar Quotes And Analysis Essay

1. At the opening of the play, common Romans, such as the Cobbler, celebrate Caesar’s return to Rome. They are for Caesar and, thus, celebrating his victorious win over Pompey. As stated by Cobbler in Act 1, Scene 1, Line 32, he said, “But indeed, sir, we make holiday to see Caesar and to rejoice in his triumph.” The commoners are treating Caesar’s return as a holiday. Because they are in high spirits to see Caesar, they are taking a day off work. After the ten years Caesar has left, the people of Rome still love and praise Caesar for being a benevolent leader. He is for the people, unlike Pompey who continues to be a conservative. While Pompey does not give the people power, Caesar does. However, noble Romans, such as Flavius and Cassius,
In Scene II, Brutus says, “I would not, Cassius, yet I love him well… If it be aught toward the general good, set honor in one eye and death I’ th’ other, and I will look on both indifferently, for let the gods so speed me, as I love the name of honor more than I fear death.” According to Brutus, he reveals that he fears Caesar will be king. Despite being friends with Caesar, he cares about Rome more than he does about Caesar. Through this quote, the readers are able to understand Brutus values being honorable, also. Brutus would do anything for Rome; he tells Cassius to let the gods give him good luck as long as he loves honor. Therefore, this shows how Brutus values honor, Rome, and its people. As for Cassius, he values flattery and manipulation. In line 135-161, Cassius states, “’Brutus’ will start a spirit as soon as ‘Caesar.’ Now, in the names of all the gods at once, upon what meat doth this our Caesar feed, that he is growns so great? Age, thou art shamed!... But it was famed with more than with one man? When could they say (till now) that talked of Rome, that her wide walks encompassed but one man?” Through this, Cassius is trying to convince Brutus to go against Caesar through flattering him. He asks Brutus what is so special about the name Caesar? Brutus is just as honorable; many people love Brutus as well as Caesar. However, what makes Caesar greater than everyone? Since Cassius understands Brutus would do anything for the good of Rome, Cassius states the importance of freedom for the Romans, which Caesar is going to take away during his reign. In addition, he continues flattering Brutus and telling him how loved and respected he is. Thus, Cassius’ speech demonstrates how cunning and sly he is. Cassius will attempt to get Brutus on his side whatever it takes, even if this includes manipulating and flattering Brutus. Furthermore, through these speeches, it reveals what Brutus and Cassius feel about Caesar. For Brutus, he fears Caesar being king. He