Literary Analysis of Cassius in "The Tragedy of Julius Caesar"

Desire for power is often considered one of the strongest human drives. Throughout “The Tragedy of Julius Caesar” Cassius plays an enormous role in the assassination of Julius Caesar. Cassius’ clever use of persuasion leads to the death of Rome’s seemingly capable leader Caesar and causes discord within the Empire. By gathering a group of conspirators, using his close relationship with Brutus to his advantage, and his manipulation skills Cassius waters his victim’s tendencies rather than plant new seeds of treachery in his struggle for power. Cassius appears to be politically motivated in the beginning, but as the play progresses the reader comes to realize his envious motives. Cassius’ jealousy of Caesar and his power are masked by convincing others of Caesar’s ambition. Aiming to have Caesar eliminated at all costs Cassius convinces Casca, Metellus Cimber, Trebonious, Decius, and even the honorable Brutus to betray Caesar. All of the conspirators, except for Brutus, are motivated by the fear of Caesar’s ability to take away their power. Cassius’ brother-in-law Brutus eventually joins the group of conspirators believing Caesar’s death will benefit Rome. Cassius goes to great lengths to convince Brutus to join the conspiracy. Brutus has a highly respected reputation that will convince the remaining members of the Senate that were undecided to join the conspiracy. Even though Cassius is the instigator of the conspiracy, Brutus is seen as the leader of the group. Needing the full support of the Senate, Cassius must keep Brutus convinced the death of Caesar is best for Rome. Cassius continuously shows his affection for Brutus throughout the play. Brutus, concentrated solely on honor and noble behavior, is manipulated into doing the will of Cassius. Cassius shows his ability to persuade others by showering them with compliments and committing forgery. By appealing to the beliefs of others Cassius effectively uses his ability to perceive the true motives of men to betray Caesar. Cassius dislikes how Caesar has become godlike in the eyes of the Romans. In order to convince Brutus of Caesar’s tyrannical actions, Cassius forges letters claiming that the Roman citizens will support the death of Caesar. After the assassination of Caesar, Brutus objects to the Cassius’ ways of collecting revenue, resulting in a passionate argument that is quickly resolved. Cassius’ dedication to Brutus is ironically what leads to a decline of his influence and power. Successful in convincing the conspirators to turn on Caesar, Cassius’ mistake is allowing Brutus to have effective control. By letting Brutus make the decisions, Antony is spared and able to seek revenge for his dear friend Caesar. By unfailingly giving in to Brutus throughout the course of the play, Cassius is made into something similar to a “sidekick”. Cassius’ attachment to Brutus leaves him torn between seeking power and dedication to his beloved friend. Cassius’ inability to let anyone other than Brutus have control of him results in his suicide after a misunderstanding at the battle of Philipi.