Julius Caesar
Julius Caesar is a character of great complexity in the play. He is shown as a skilled military leader who has gained immense power and popularity among the people of Rome. His ambition and desire for power are evident in his refusal to heed the warnings of the soothsayer and the dreams of his wife, Calpurnia. However, Caesar is also depicted as a charismatic and caring leader who is genuinely loved by the people of Rome.
Caesar's arrogance and overconfidence are highlighted in his interactions with the senators, particularly Cassius. He dismisses Cassius's warnings of danger and even speaks of himself in the third person, demonstrating his high opinion of himself. However, despite his flaws, Caesar is also shown as a loyal friend to Antony and a caring leader to his people. His refusal to accept the crown three times, even though it was offered to him, suggests that he is not power-hungry, but rather concerned with the welfare of Rome.
Ultimately, Caesar's downfall is caused by his own arrogance and disregard for the warnings of others. His assassination by members of the Roman Senate is a shocking and brutal event that sets the stage for the rest of the play. Caesar's death also serves as a catalyst for the power struggle between the conspirators and his allies, leading to a series of events that ultimately lead to the downfall of the Roman Republic.
Quotes
"Yond Cassius has a lean and hungry look; He thinks too much: such men are dangerous." - spoken by Caesar in Act 1, Scene 2, shows Caesar's dismissive attitude towards Cassius and his warnings.
"I rather tell thee what is to be feared than what I fear; for always I am Caesar." - spoken by Caesar in Act 1, Scene 2, shows Caesar's arrogance and his belief that he is invincible.
"But, for my own part, it was Greek to me." - spoken by Casca in Act 1, Scene 2, shows the difficulty that some of the senators have in understanding Caesar's arrogance and his lofty ambitions.
"Beware the ides of March." - spoken by the soothsayer in Act 1, Scene 2, warns Caesar of his impending doom. Caesar ignores this, claiming that the soothsayer is just a dreamer.
"Cowards die many times before their deaths; The valiant never taste of death but once." - spoken by Caesar in Act 2, Scene 2, shows Caesar's bravery and his willingness to face death
"Et tu, Brute? Then fall, Caesar!" - spoken by Caesar in Act 3, Scene 1, shows Caesar's shock and betrayal when he realizes that even his close friend, Brutus, is part of the conspiracy to assassinate him.
Brutus
Brutus is a man of principle, who is deeply concerned about the future of Rome. He is convinced that Caesar's growing power poses a threat to the Republic and believes that his friend's ambition will ultimately lead to the downfall of Rome. Despite his affection for Caesar, Brutus ultimately decides to join the conspiracy against him, hoping to preserve the Republic.
Brutus's internal conflict is the driving force of the play. He is constantly torn between his loyalty to Caesar and his love for Rome. His decision to join the conspirators is not an easy one, and he struggles with the morality of the act. In one of the most famous soliloquies in the play, Brutus says, "Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more" (Act III, Scene 2).
Brutus is also a man of great honor and integrity. He refuses to kill Antony, Caesar's loyal friend, believing that it would be dishonorable and unwise. His decision to spare Antony's life ultimately leads to the downfall of the conspirators and the death of Brutus himself.
Quotes
"Brutus hath a suit that Caesar will not grant." - spoken by Brutus in Act 1, Scene 2, shows that Brutus has a personal grievance against Caesar that motivates him to consider joining the conspiracy.
"Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more." - spoken by Brutus in Act 3, Scene 2, shows that Brutus's decision to join the conspiracy is driven by his sense of duty to Rome and his belief that Caesar's ambition poses a threat to the Republic.
"This is my answer: Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more." - spoken by Brutus in Act 3, Scene 2, shows that Brutus is willing to sacrifice his friendship with Caesar and his own reputation for the sake of the Republic.
"As I slew my best lover for the good of Rome, I have the same dagger for myself when it shall please my country to need my death." - spoken by Brutus in Act 5, Scene 5, shows that Brutus is willing to die for his beliefs and his country.
"O, that we then could come by Caesar's spirit, and not dismember Caesar! But, alas, Caesar must bleed for it." - spoken by Brutus in Act 2, Scene 1, shows that Brutus is conflicted about the idea of killing Caesar, and would prefer a more peaceful solution, but ultimately believes that Caesar's death is necessary for the good of Rome.
Cassius
Cassius is a shrewd and cunning character in the play, often taking on the role of a manipulator. He is depicted as an individual with deep resentment towards Caesar and a desire for power. Cassius is motivated by his own ambition and believes that Caesar's ascent to power will lead to the downfall of the Roman Republic. He uses his persuasive abilities to convince Brutus to join the conspiracy against Caesar and become the leader of the group. Cassius is a master of language and rhetoric, using his words to sway others to his point of view.
Despite his intelligence and wit, Cassius is also shown to be envious and jealous of others. He resents Caesar's popularity and success, and is envious of the power that he wields. This is exemplified in Act 1, Scene 2, when he speaks with Brutus about Caesar's rule, saying, "Why, man, he doth bestride the narrow world / Like a Colossus, and we petty men / Walk under his huge legs, and peep about / To find ourselves dishonorable graves" (1.2.135-138). Here, Cassius is expressing his jealousy of Caesar's power and his desire to bring him down.
Furthermore, Cassius is not beyond using manipulation and deceit to achieve his goals. He forges letters that appear to be from the people of Rome, urging Brutus to take action against Caesar. This act shows that Cassius is willing to use whatever means necessary to achieve his desired outcome, even if it means lying to his fellow conspirators.
Quotes
"Men at some time are masters of their fates. / The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, / But in ourselves, that we are underlings." - spoken by Cassius in Act 1, Scene 2, shows Cassius' skill in manipulating Brutus by appealing to his sense of agency and desire for power.
"Well, Brutus, thou art noble. Yet, I see, / Thy honorable mettle may be wrought / From that it is disposed. Therefore, it is meet / That noble minds keep ever with their likes; / For who so firm that cannot be seduced?" - spoken by Cassius in Act 1, Scene 2, shows Cassius' skill in flattery and manipulation, as he tries to persuade Brutus to join the conspiracy.
"Why, man, he doth bestride the narrow world / Like a Colossus, and we petty men / Walk under his huge legs and peep about / To find ourselves dishonorable graves." - spoken by Cassius in Act 1, Scene 2, shows Cassius' jealousy of Caesar's power and his desire to bring him down.
"Let me have men about me that are fat, / Sleek-headed men, and such as sleep a-nights. / Yond Cassius has a lean and hungry look. / He thinks too much. Such men are dangerous." - spoken by Caesar in Act 1, Scene 2, shows Caesar's assessment of Cassius as a dangerous and ambitious man.
"These many, then, shall die; their names are pricked." - spoken by Cassius in Act 4, Scene 1, shows Cassius' willingness to kill even his own allies in the conspiracy, demonstrating his ruthless pursuit of power.
Mark Antony
Mark Antony is a complex character in the play, who undergoes significant development throughout the course of the plot. Initially, he is shown as a loyal friend and supporter of Caesar, but after his assassination, he becomes a key player in the power struggle between the conspirators and Caesar's allies.
Antony's most famous moment in the play is his speech at Caesar's funeral, in which he turns the tide of public opinion against the conspirators with his powerful rhetoric. Antony is depicted as a skilled politician and a charismatic speaker, capable of rousing a crowd to action with his words. However, he is also shown to be a man of deep loyalty and friendship, as evidenced by his determination to avenge Caesar's death and his willingness to risk his own life in defense of his friend's legacy.
Despite his loyalty to Caesar, Antony is not portrayed as a one-dimensional character. He is willing to use underhanded tactics to achieve his goals, such as manipulating the crowd with his speech and forming alliances with unlikely allies. At the same time, he is also capable of great compassion and empathy, as seen in his interactions with Caesar's friends and allies
Quotes
"Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears; I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him." - spoken by Mark Antony in Act 3, Scene 2. This quote demonstrates Antony's skill as a charismatic speaker and his ability to sway the crowd.
"O, pardon me, thou bleeding piece of earth, That I am meek and gentle with these butchers!" - spoken by Mark Antony in Act 3, Scene 1. This quote shows Antony's deep loyalty and affection for Caesar, as well as his outrage at his friend's assassination.
"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 a general honest thought And common good to all, made one of them. His life was gentle, and the elements So mixed in him that Nature might stand up And say to all the world, 'This was a man!'" - spoken by Mark Antony in Act 5, Scene 5. This quote demonstrates Antony's ability to turn the crowd against the conspirators by using rhetoric to paint Brutus as the only conspirator who acted out of noble intentions.
"Cry 'Havoc!' and let slip the dogs of war." - spoken by Mark Antony in Act 3, Scene 1. This quote shows Antony's willingness to take up arms against the conspirators in order to avenge Caesar's death.
Calpurnia
Calpurnia is a minor character in the play, but her presence is significant in that she highlights the theme of fate and the supernatural. Her premonitions and warnings about Caesar's fate foreshadow the tragic events to come. Her devotion to Caesar and her concern for his safety demonstrate the love and loyalty that exists between them.
Calpurnia's character is also important in that it shows a different perspective on the events of the play. While the male characters are preoccupied with politics and power, Calpurnia's concern is solely for the safety of her husband. This highlights the gender roles of the time, in which women were often excluded from political affairs and relegated to the domestic sphere.
Quotes
"Caesar, I never stood on ceremonies, / Yet now they fright me" - spoken by Calpurnia in Caesar's dream, Act 2, Scene 2. This quote is not spoken by Calpurnia herself, but rather is a reference to her dream about Caesar's death. It demonstrates her concern for her husband's safety and her belief in her premonitions.
"When beggars die, there are no comets seen; / The heavens themselves blaze forth the death of princes" - spoken by Calpurnia to Caesar, Act 2, Scene 2. This quote demonstrates Calpurnia's fear of the omens and portents that surround Caesar's impending assassination, and her desire to keep him safe.
"Caesar, beware of Brutus; take heed of Cassius; / Come not near Casca; have an eye to Cinna; / Trust not Trebonius; mark well Metellus Cimber" - spoken by Calpurnia to Caesar, Act 2, Scene 2. This quote shows Calpurnia's concern for Caesar's safety and her belief that he is in danger from those around him. It also demonstrates her knowledge of the conspirators and her intuition about their motives.
Portia
Portia is a character who demonstrates great strength and loyalty towards her husband Brutus. She is determined to share in his troubles and support him in any way she can. This is demonstrated when she questions Brutus about his secrets and pleads with him to confide in her, saying "I grant I am a woman; but withal / A woman that Lord Brutus took to wife" (Act 2, Scene 1). Portia is aware that her husband is preoccupied with something that is bothering him, and she is desperate to be involved in his troubles.
Portia also demonstrates great physical and emotional strength when she takes a knife to her own thigh to prove her loyalty and ability to withstand pain. This is an act of bravery and determination that shows her love for her husband and her willingness to do anything for him. In Act 2, Scene 1, she says, "I have made strong proof of my constancy, / Giving myself a voluntary wound / Here, in the thigh." This action is a testament to Portia's strength of character and loyalty.
Despite her best efforts, Portia is unable to prevent Brutus from joining the conspiracy against Caesar, and her death is a tragic loss for him. Her suicide is a testament to her love and devotion to her husband, and it highlights the devastating impact that the events of the play have on those closest to the characters involved in the conspiracy.
Quotes
"Think you I am no stronger than my sex, being so fathered and so husbanded?" - spoken by Portia in Act 2, Scene 1, shows her determination and strong will, as she challenges the societal expectations of women.
"I have a man's mind, but a woman's might" - spoken by Portia in Act 2, Scene 1, shows her belief in her own capabilities, despite her gender.
"Is Brutus sick? and is it physical to walk unbraced and suck up the humours of the dank morning?" - spoken by Portia in Act 2, Scene 1, shows her concern for Brutus's well-being and her desire to know what is troubling him.
"I grant I am a woman, but withal / A woman that Lord Brutus took to wife" - spoken by Portia in Act 2, Scene 1, shows her appealing to Brutus' emotions, making herself appear more intelligent, by praising her husbands desision in choosing her as a wife.
"Impatient of my absence, / And grief that young Octavius with Mark Antony / Have made themselves so strong;--for with her death / That tidings came;--with this she fell distract, / And, her attendants absent, swallow'd fire." - spoken by Brutus in Act 4, Scene 3, shows how Portia's death has affected him deeply, and how he mourns her loss.
Octavius
Octavius plays a significant role in the play as a supporting character, particularly in the later acts. He is first introduced in Act 4, Scene 1, and it becomes clear that he is a man of great ambition and determination. He is initially aligned with Mark Antony and Lepidus, and the three of them form the Second Triumvirate, a powerful alliance that seeks to rule Rome.
Throughout the play, Octavius is portrayed as a skilled military leader who is always strategic in his actions. He shows great bravery in battle, and his ability to inspire and motivate his troops is evident. His military prowess is demonstrated in Act 5, Scene 4, when he leads his army to victory over the forces of Brutus and Cassius.
Despite his youth, Octavius is also shown to be a skilled politician. In Act 4, Scene 1, he negotiates effectively with Antony, and the two agree on a strategy for their upcoming battle against the conspirators. Later in the play, he shows his ability to make difficult decisions and maintain his composure even in the face of great adversity.
Quotes
"Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears; I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him. The evil that men do lives after them; The good is oft interred with their bones." - spoken by Mark Antony in Act 3 Scene 2, demonstrates Octavius' strong desire for revenge and his willingness to take action to avenge Caesar's death.
"Be not afraid of greatness. Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and others have greatness thrust upon them." - spoken by Octavius in Act 2 Scene 5, shows Octavius' ambition and confidence in his abilities to rise to greatness.
"These many, then, shall die; their names are prick'd." - spoken by Octavius in Act 4 Scene 1, shows Octavius' cold and calculated approach to war, willing to sacrifice lives to achieve his goals.