The audience’s view of Brutus and cassias differs in the exposition of Julius Caesar as reputable men in the play repeatedly tell us that Brutus is a “Nobel” man compared to the “wretched creature” of Cassius. Shakespeare presents Brutus to us from the beginning as he is “vexed… with passions of some difference, conceptions only proper to myself” this uncertain tone expressed by Brutus immediately bring the audience to think of him as an intellect, a rational man. However the idea that Shakespeare presents of Brutus as an honorable man can be seen in a darker light as he says “if it aught toward the general good, set honor in one eye and death in the other” Brutus hides all personal feelings behind the good of Rome. This juxtaposition shows his conflicting perspectives that he faces. However Cassius sways Brutus for his own political agenda describing Caesar as “a sick girl”, his descriptive language heightens the feelings of animosity and enmity he feels towards Caesar showing the audience his true emotions. His vindictive simile portrays him as a stark contrast to Brutus as the audience is led to question Cassius morals and motives for the death of Caesar. The personalities of Brutus and cassias are contrasted by Caesar to show the destructive nature of mankind and how tampering with the natural order of nature can have sever consequences.
Shakespeare draws upon audience of all age to portray the exposition of Julia Caesar dramatic conflict. Such use of perception explores Brutus and cassias in different quantitative views, which make us ponder how Shakespeare position us to view them .The hungry and bellicose character of Cassias is shown to be more envious and jealous of Brutus as ”many of the best respect in Rome …groaning underneath this ages yoke have wished that noble Brutus has his eyes”. Immediately we get a glimpse of cassias through oppressive imagery and reverent tone of him luring Brutus up for a trap cleverly done by Shakespeare. Shakespeare also uses different techniques to convey cassias lust of ambition and power and the recklessness he will go to get there when “a shrewd contriver annoy us all thus let Anthony an Caesar fall together”. Interestingly the use of metonymy “fall” suggest an un wiliness to use the word murder supports the cassias might not be as strong as the think he is but is willing to go to the length as to “cut the head of then hack the limbs like wrath in death and envy afterwards”. Thus as an audience we ponder Shakespeare intellectual to make cassias a pawn of ambition and lust. On the other hand Brutus is portrayed as noble” that I loved Caesar less but I love Rome more”. Shakespeare also portrays Brutus as an honest man with “no not an oath these motive be weak break of be time every man hence to idle his bed”. As the use of authorial tone and contrast claim the reason for such murderous deeds Shakespeare alludes to the honesty and integrity for the killing he has done contrasting to cassias evil deeds. Thus showing the contrast between Brutus and Cassias intention Shakespeare master the textual form of the play and brings restoration of ambition and honour through two characters.
Antony is portrayed by Shakespeare as a “noble man” much alike Brutus, however their personal motives and political agendas differ, as Brutus “loved Rome more”. Brutus address the crowd by using powerful rhetoric “had you rather Caesar were living and die as slaves, than that Caesar were dead, to live all free men” his powerful rhetorical question is answered and they deny that he has done any wrong. As an audience this makes us sympathize with Brutus plight as we see that the audience agree with Brutus motives. His use of emotive language elicits a favorable response from the crowd who cry out “live Brutus! Live, live”. However as Antony begins to address the audience we immediately know as an audience his address is to exact revenge. His speech is built around the notion that the conspirators are noble, especially Brutus. “The Nobel Brutus hath told you Caesar was ambitious. If it were so, it was a grievous fault” his clever yet sycophantic tone and repetition of the word “Nobel” shows that he doesn’t risk alienating the mob by attempting to ostracise Brutus. He concludes his famous address by stating that if he had brutus oratory skills, he would “ruffle up your spirits and put a tounge in every wound of Caesar that should move the stones
Cassius & Brutus The significant difference between Shakespeare’s view on the “lean and hungry” Cassius and “noble” Brutus is obvious from the fictitious exposition outset. After Caesar returns from defeating Pompey, it is evident that that something is disturbing Brutus, which as we know is he is afraid that Caesar wont want to return as a senator, which results in him wanting to get rid of Caesar. Shakespeare presents Brutus as being a very “noble man” toward Caesar although Brutus evidently loves Rome more, “Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more”. Shakespeare’s juxtaposition shows Brutus’s loyalty to Caesar but how easily he will give it up for his city, Rome. Shakespeare presents Cassius as being a very jealous and envious character of Caesar and the crown, which completely conflicts Shakespeare’s view on Brutus of which does his deed for the good of Rome. Instantly we can see Cassius’s envy for Caesar, “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.” Cassius’s emotional and bitter simile, clearly shows his lack of nobleness towards Caesar which is what differs him from Brutus. As we can see, Brutus kills Caesar for the benefit of Rome whereas Cassius does it purely because of his envious nature towards Caesar.
Brutus & Antony Shakespeare presents both Brutus and Antony as being very “noble” characters, although from two conflicting perspectives. Both of them initially honour Caesar but then due to some influencing by Cassius, Brutus turns on Caesar for the good of Rome. Following the killing of Caesar the conflict between Antony and the Conspirators is momentarily masked, which leaves use confused by Antony shaking hands with his beloved friends murderers. Yet, even with Brutus and Cassius watching on, he seemingly lets his true emotions slip, stating, “Here was thou bayed, brave hart; Here didst thou fall; and here thy hunters stand”. His use of anaphora and hunting imagery gives the conspirators cause for grave concern; the very man Cassius warned would cause trouble after the murder branding them as “hunters”, It also initially shows Antony’s love for his friend. Brutus sets about trying to placate the Romans who have gathered in the forum to ascertain why their glorious ruler has been slain. Brutus does indeed speak the truth when he claims his actions were “not that I loved Caesar, but that I loved Rome more” . We can see that his divulgence of honesty is an emotional plea, trying not only to show the mob how Rome will now be a better place to live, but also that they have been set free. His use of contrast shows that Caesar was indeed a close confidante and mentor, but Brutus had genuine concerns for the dictatorial nature of “Noble Caesar”. As we can see both Antony and Brutus are both very “Noble” but in their own sort of way and towards different people and groups.
The distinct contrast between Shakespeare portrayal of the “Lean and hungry” Cassius and the “noble man” Brutus evident in the play of Julius Ceaser. From the outset, it becomes apparent that Cassius is a malcontent as he seeks to undermine Caesar’s reputation in the eyes of Brutus. He describes the incident where he allegedly saves Caesar from drowning “Help me Cassius, or I sink... so from the waves of the Tiber did I [rescue] God.” Cassius compare Caesar to a ‘Colossus’ who “doth bestride the narrow world” and he asks Brutus why it is that the name of Caesar “should... be sounded more than yours?” Brutus listens carefully to Cassius’s perspective and assures him “I will consider what you have to say”
The conflict between Antony and the conspirators is monetarily masked, and we are confused by Antony shaking hands with his beloved friends murders. Brutus and Cassius watching on and Antony emotions towards Caesars death slip, Stating “Here wast thou bayed, brave hart; Here didst thou fall; and here thy hunters stand”. His use of anaphora and hunting imagery gives the conspirators cause for grave concern. He continues his extended metaphor in a sad and melancholic lament, “O world, thou wast the forest to this hart… O world, the heart of three”. This clever pun shows Antony love towards his friend. He knew how beneficial Caesar was to Rome in finally achieving civil order and he knew how loved he was by the Roman populace. In contrast to Antony, Brutus a “noble man” sets about trying to placate the Romans who have gathered in the forum to ascertain why their glorious has been slain. Brutus does indeed speak the truth when he claims his actions were “ not the I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more”. His use of contrast shows that Caesar was indeed a close confidante and mentor, but Brutus had a genuine concern for the dictatorial nature of “Noble Caesar”. We can see that his divulgence of honesty is an emotional plea, trying not to show the mob how Rome will now be a better place and to live.
Shakespeare’s differing portrayal of “lean and hungry” Cassius and the “noble” Brutus offers a strong contrast for their motives in the fictitious play. The audience quickly establishes the differences between Cassius and Brutus with Caesar admitting that his closes friend Brutus is “with himself at war” where to more ambiguous and jealous Cassius. From the evidence that Shakespeare puts forth to the audience we are quick to establish the the different motives that Brutus and Cassius have personal for killing Caesar, “if it be aught toward the general good, set honour in one eye and death i’th other”. From this as a audience we can compare this to Cassius more personal sinister motive than Brutus’s public deception of what was best for Rome. Cassius who leads the group of assassins has a much different view on how he views Caesar personal, “his coward lips … did lose his lustre … as a sick girl”. Shakespeare use of simile shows the differing friendship that Caesar shares with his noble friend Brutus. In the death of Caesar the true meaning of the motives killing Caesar are revealed through the use of the conflicting prospectives that taught the troubled mind of Brutus merciful killing and Cassius’s ambiguous motive.
shakespeare portrays the characters of brutus “an honourable man” and cassius “a wretched creature” in completely different lights from the outset and throughout the exposition of the tragedy of Julius caesar. from the beginning of the play we see how brutus is portrayed to the audience as an “honourable man”, this becomes clear to the audience when brutus contemplates the death of caesar “Vexèd I am””poor Brutus, with himself at war” the use of metaphor by shakespeare to portray how brutus is having a inner “war” and the mental quarrel that he his having within himself, portraying brutus as a intellectual and reasonable man towards the audience. “If it be aught toward the general good, Set honor in one eye and death i' th' other” once again we see shakespeare use a metaphor to illustrate brutus, though having made up his mind about killing caesar, brutus does have a noble reason behind the death of caesar as he believes it will be best for rome. shakespeare once again through metaphors reaffirms the notion that brutus is a honourable man because of his reasoning behind the death of caesar as he only wants what is best for rome. cassius is the inversion of brutus with his reasoning being completely different to that of brutus’ for the death of casear, where brutus chooses slay caesar for the good of rome, cassius’ motives are that he is jealous of caesar and in the conjuring of his plan he needs brutus to carry of the regicide of caesar. “he doth bestride the narrow world Like a Colossus, and we petty men Walk under his huge legs” Shakespeare's simile shows the jealousy of cassius towards caesar and his despicable nature, cassius towards the audience comes across as a bitter envious man, who is jealous of caesar and his power and feels that he does not deserve such power.
It is evident that Shakespeare’s portrayal of Brutus differs greatly from the portrayal of Cassius in his exposition. Brutus is “a noble man” and when he admits to Cassius the he is “himself at war” we sympathize for him. Shakespeare’s use of the metaphor displays how Brutus, when faced with a difficult decision gets confused and does not want to make the wrong decision. Brutus wants what is better for Rome. “Since Cassius first did whet me against Caesar I have not slept”. The use of a pun alluding whet a blade (sharpen a blade) creates a sense of foreboding and gives in insight to the audience that Brutus is still confused about his decision for the betterment of Rome. Cassius is portrayed as a “wretched creature” and Shakespeare use the motive to kill to contrast the two characters. “We petty men walk under his huge legs and peep about to find ourselves dishonorable graves”. This negative use of metonymy shows us that Cassius is jealous of Caesar’s power and it is for this that he wants him killed. “It doth amaze me a man of such feeble temper should so get the start of the majestic world and bear the palm alone”. Shakespeare’s use of metonymy and descriptive language highlight the fact that Cassius hates Caesar because of the amount of power that he wields.
Throughout history, composers have explored key notions through the conflicting portrayal of central characters. Shakespeare’s’ characterization of Brutus as gullible and naïve is in stark contrast to the depiction of Cassius, who is represented as deceitful and manipulative. Shakespeare employs various rhetoric devices to present his ideas to the audiences. Brutus also being represented originally to the audience as “an honorable man” and Shakespeare’s repetition of this makes us question whether he is in fact not, and is just like the “wrenched creature” Cassius. However later on when toiling about the plot Shakespeare shows Brutus conflicting with Cassius about an oath, “no not an oath ….. if these motives be weak, break of betimes, and every man hence to his idle bed”. Shakespeare uses authoritarian tone in revealing the power of politics Brutus beholds. Cassius believing Antony will avenge Caesar and again conflicting with Brutus “thus …. Let Antony and Caesar fall together.
Brutus vs. Cassius The blatant contrast between Cassius and the “noble” Brutus is apparent since the opening Act of Shakespeare’s fictitious exposition. Their differentiating views on the formidable leader of Rome, Julius Caesar, is shown when Cassius expresses his resentment towards Caesar, stating “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.” The segregating views are evident as Cassius inexplicitly announces his jealously towards Caesar whilst Brutus defends his leader by arguing, “I have not known when his affections swayed more than his reason.” Cassius again attempts to demonise Julius Caesar, he tells Brutus a story in which he and Caesar were holding a swimming contest across the Tiber River, and Caesar started to drown. Cassius claims that he rescued Caesar and carried him to the shore. He then complains that Caesar has become so powerful that even though he once saved Caesar's life, he must now bow before him; “But ere we could arrive the point proposed, Caesar cried, “Help me, Cassius, or I sink!” I, as Aeneas, our great ancestor, did from the flames of Troy upon his shoulder the old Anchises bear, so from the waves of Tiber, did I the tired Caesar.” Cassius is able to use mythological imagery to support him, claiming that he is heroic as Aeneas, the creator of the Roman world.
Brutus vs. Antony Brutus, although described as a “noble man” by Shakespeare, reaches a certain ultimatum. The dilemma Brutus faces is the choice between what he believes is best for his dearly beloved City of Rome or the trust and loyalty shared between himself and his honorary friend, Julius Caesar. His conundrum is expressed in Act 3, Scene 2, “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.” Antony expresses his belief when Caesar dies before him, that the world did in fact revolve around Caesar, “O world, thou waste the forest to this heart…O world, the heart of thee.” He then states to Cassius that his grief was nothing more than an obligation than a true sentimental farewell, “Pardon me, Caius Cassius. The enemies of Caesar shall say this; then, in a friend, it is cold modesty.”
The characters of Brutus and Cassius have been portrayed both with major differences. Cassius is depicted as a persuasive, shrewd, and violently jealous character, and Brutus a more noble and honourable yet naïve, character portrayed by Shakespeare. The viewing of the progressive persuasion and manipulation of Brutus by Cassius, as he presents the idea of assassinating Caesar, gives views of both characters. Shakespeare has fashioned this series of events, which makes his audience feel a scene of loath and hatred toward Cassius, and a semi sadness and frustration toward Brutus, as his naivety allows him to choose the wrong choice, the true tragedy of the story. We seen, with the obvious description of Cassius “ it doth amaze me a man of such feeble temper should so get the start of the majestic world and bear the palm alone”. In this exert we see with the use of metonymy and descriptive language, how Cassius despises and is jealous of Caesar and the power he possesses. As a result an negative image is painted of Cassius as we see his dangerous jealousy. During the assassination of Caesar Brutus’s noble yet persuadable character revealed, as he was once a good friend of Caesars ”et to brute, then fall Caesar”, with this we feel the true tragedy of Brutus’s actions, as he would have been one of last to act against Caesar, with the use of Latin and emotive Language, we see how Caesar, with the sight of Brutus, feels he has done something truly wrong and as a result, lets himself fall prey to Cassius and his dirty jealousy. In this moment the tragedy of Caesars death isn’t as profound as the his betrayal of brutus.
The blatant contrast between how Shakespeare presents the “noble” Brutus and Cassius the “wretched creature” in Shakespeare’s fictitious tragedy “Julius Caesar” is immediately discernable to the audience. Brutus concurs that the death of Caesar is a necessary evil “not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more” Shakespeare’s use of simile shows that unlike Cassius, Brutus is doing what he thinks is for the good of Rome, thus creating conflict within the audience because they cannot decide how they feel about him. Cassius endeavors to convert Brutus from not only killing Caesar but to kill Mark Antony as well “it is a shrewd contriver… to annoy as all… let Antony and Caesar fall together” this juxtaposition of necessity and jealousy allow Shakespeare to present the audience with the situation of politics. Brutus takes a more pacifistic approach “to cut the head off and then hack the limbs like wrath in death and envy afterwards, for Antony is but a limb of Caesar”, quashing Cassius’s notion that Antony will wreck havoc upon them afterwards and providing another divide between Cassius and Brutus. As the two most influential characters, Brutus and Cassius are the embodiment of Shakespeare’s belief that a mixture of noble intentions and blind jealousy are volatile and can only cause destruction. Shakespeare skillfully uses the medium of a play to depict how death is part of the “natural orders” cyclical nature and how vital it is to restoring it; this is a common theme that reoccurs in many of Shakespeare’s tragic dramas.
Although both Antony and Brutus are depicted as “noble” Shakespeare presents the audience with conflict centered around the man which the fictitious tragedy is named after “Julius Caesar”, this conflict is easily ascertainable by the audience from the outset of the play. After Brutus and the conspirators murder Caesar, Brutus makes a speech in an attempt to placate the roman people “had you rather Caesar were living and die all slaves, than that Caesar were dead, to live all free men?” this contrast depicts the core element of Brutus’s mantra, that what he was doing was for the betterment of Rome. After Brutus’s speech, Antony speaks describing Brutus as “an honorable man” but contradicting Brutus by stating “did this in Caesar seem ambitious? When the poor have cried, Caesar hath wept. Ambition should be made of sterner stuff” Shakespeare uses Antony to cut through Brutus’s mirage of freeing the people from Caesar’s tyranny.
The audience’s view of Brutus and cassias differs in the exposition of Julius Caesar as reputable men in the play repeatedly tell us that Brutus is a “Nobel” man compared to the “wretched creature” of Cassius. Shakespeare presents Brutus to us from the beginning as he is “vexed… with passions of some difference, conceptions only proper to myself” this uncertain tone expressed by Brutus immediately bring the audience to think of him as an intellect, a rational man. However the idea that Shakespeare presents of Brutus as an honorable man can be seen in a darker light as he says “if it aught toward the general good, set honor in one eye and death in the other” Brutus hides all personal feelings behind the good of Rome. This juxtaposition shows his conflicting perspectives that he faces. However Cassius sways Brutus for his own political agenda describing Caesar as “a sick girl”, his descriptive language heightens the feelings of animosity and enmity he feels towards Caesar showing the audience his true emotions. His vindictive simile portrays him as a stark contrast to Brutus as the audience is led to question Cassius morals and motives for the death of Caesar. The personalities of Brutus and cassias are contrasted by Caesar to show the destructive nature of mankind and how tampering with the natural order of nature can have sever consequences.
ReplyDeleteShakespeare draws upon audience of all age to portray the exposition of Julia Caesar dramatic conflict. Such use of perception explores Brutus and cassias in different quantitative views, which make us ponder how Shakespeare position us to view them .The hungry and bellicose character of Cassias is shown to be more envious and jealous of Brutus as ”many of the best respect in Rome …groaning underneath this ages yoke have wished that noble Brutus has his eyes”. Immediately we get a glimpse of cassias through oppressive imagery and reverent tone of him luring Brutus up for a trap cleverly done by Shakespeare. Shakespeare also uses different techniques to convey cassias lust of ambition and power and the recklessness he will go to get there when “a shrewd contriver annoy us all thus let Anthony an Caesar fall together”. Interestingly the use of metonymy “fall” suggest an un wiliness to use the word murder supports the cassias might not be as strong as the think he is but is willing to go to the length as to “cut the head of then hack the limbs like wrath in death and envy afterwards”. Thus as an audience we ponder Shakespeare intellectual to make cassias a pawn of ambition and lust. On the other hand Brutus is portrayed as noble” that I loved Caesar less but I love Rome more”. Shakespeare also portrays Brutus as an honest man with “no not an oath these motive be weak break of be time every man hence to idle his bed”. As the use of authorial tone and contrast claim the reason for such murderous deeds Shakespeare alludes to the honesty and integrity for the killing he has done contrasting to cassias evil deeds. Thus showing the contrast between Brutus and Cassias intention Shakespeare master the textual form of the play and brings restoration of ambition and honour through two characters.
ReplyDeleteAntony is portrayed by Shakespeare as a “noble man” much alike Brutus, however their personal motives and political agendas differ, as Brutus “loved Rome more”. Brutus address the crowd by using powerful rhetoric “had you rather Caesar were living and die as slaves, than that Caesar were dead, to live all free men” his powerful rhetorical question is answered and they deny that he has done any wrong. As an audience this makes us sympathize with Brutus plight as we see that the audience agree with Brutus motives. His use of emotive language elicits a favorable response from the crowd who cry out “live Brutus! Live, live”. However as Antony begins to address the audience we immediately know as an audience his address is to exact revenge. His speech is built around the notion that the conspirators are noble, especially Brutus. “The Nobel Brutus hath told you Caesar was ambitious. If it were so, it was a grievous fault” his clever yet sycophantic tone and repetition of the word “Nobel” shows that he doesn’t risk alienating the mob by attempting to ostracise Brutus. He concludes his famous address by stating that if he had brutus oratory skills, he would “ruffle up your spirits and put a tounge in every wound of Caesar that should move the stones
ReplyDeleteCassius & Brutus
ReplyDeleteThe significant difference between Shakespeare’s view on the “lean and hungry” Cassius and “noble” Brutus is obvious from the fictitious exposition outset.
After Caesar returns from defeating Pompey, it is evident that that something is disturbing Brutus, which as we know is he is afraid that Caesar wont want to return as a senator, which results in him wanting to get rid of Caesar. Shakespeare presents Brutus as being a very “noble man” toward Caesar although Brutus evidently loves Rome more, “Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more”. Shakespeare’s juxtaposition shows Brutus’s loyalty to Caesar but how easily he will give it up for his city, Rome.
Shakespeare presents Cassius as being a very jealous and envious character of Caesar and the crown, which completely conflicts Shakespeare’s view on Brutus of which does his deed for the good of Rome.
Instantly we can see Cassius’s envy for Caesar, “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.” Cassius’s emotional and bitter simile, clearly shows his lack of nobleness towards Caesar which is what differs him from Brutus. As we can see, Brutus kills Caesar for the benefit of Rome whereas Cassius does it purely because of his envious nature towards Caesar.
Brutus & Antony
Shakespeare presents both Brutus and Antony as being very “noble” characters, although from two conflicting perspectives. Both of them initially honour Caesar but then due to some influencing by Cassius, Brutus turns on Caesar for the good of Rome.
Following the killing of Caesar the conflict between Antony and the Conspirators is momentarily masked, which leaves use confused by Antony shaking hands with his beloved friends murderers. Yet, even with Brutus and Cassius watching on, he seemingly lets his true emotions slip, stating, “Here was thou bayed, brave hart; Here didst thou fall; and here thy hunters stand”. His use of anaphora and hunting imagery gives the conspirators cause for grave concern; the very man Cassius warned would cause trouble after the murder branding them as “hunters”, It also initially shows Antony’s love for his friend.
Brutus sets about trying to placate the Romans who have gathered in the forum to ascertain why their glorious ruler has been slain. Brutus does indeed speak the truth when he claims his actions were “not that I loved Caesar, but that I loved Rome more” . We can see that his divulgence of honesty is an emotional plea, trying not only to show the mob how Rome will now be a better place to live, but also that they have been set free. His use of contrast shows that Caesar was indeed a close confidante and mentor, but Brutus had genuine concerns for the dictatorial nature of “Noble Caesar”.
As we can see both Antony and Brutus are both very “Noble” but in their own sort of way and towards different people and groups.
The distinct contrast between Shakespeare portrayal of the “Lean and hungry” Cassius and the “noble man” Brutus evident in the play of Julius Ceaser. From the outset, it becomes apparent that Cassius is a malcontent as he seeks to undermine Caesar’s reputation in the eyes of Brutus. He describes the incident where he allegedly saves Caesar from drowning “Help me Cassius, or I sink... so from the waves of the Tiber did I [rescue] God.” Cassius compare Caesar to a ‘Colossus’ who “doth bestride the narrow world” and he asks Brutus why it is that the name of Caesar “should... be sounded more than yours?” Brutus listens carefully to Cassius’s perspective and assures him “I will consider what you have to say”
ReplyDeleteThe conflict between Antony and the conspirators is monetarily masked, and we are confused by Antony shaking hands with his beloved friends murders. Brutus and Cassius watching on and Antony emotions towards Caesars death slip, Stating “Here wast thou bayed, brave hart; Here didst thou fall; and here thy hunters stand”. His use of anaphora and hunting imagery gives the conspirators cause for grave concern. He continues his extended metaphor in a sad and melancholic lament, “O world, thou wast the forest to this hart… O world, the heart of three”. This clever pun shows Antony love towards his friend. He knew how beneficial Caesar was to Rome in finally achieving civil order and he knew how loved he was by the Roman populace. In contrast to Antony, Brutus a “noble man” sets about trying to placate the Romans who have gathered in the forum to ascertain why their glorious has been slain. Brutus does indeed speak the truth when he claims his actions were “ not the I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more”. His use of contrast shows that Caesar was indeed a close confidante and mentor, but Brutus had a genuine concern for the dictatorial nature of “Noble Caesar”. We can see that his divulgence of honesty is an emotional plea, trying not to show the mob how Rome will now be a better place and to live.
Shakespeare’s differing portrayal of “lean and hungry” Cassius and the “noble” Brutus offers a strong contrast for their motives in the fictitious play. The audience quickly establishes the differences between Cassius and Brutus with Caesar admitting that his closes friend Brutus is “with himself at war” where to more ambiguous and jealous Cassius. From the evidence that Shakespeare puts forth to the audience we are quick to establish the the different motives that Brutus and Cassius have personal for killing Caesar, “if it be aught toward the general good, set honour in one eye and death i’th other”. From this as a audience we can compare this to Cassius more personal sinister motive than Brutus’s public deception of what was best for Rome. Cassius who leads the group of assassins has a much different view on how he views Caesar personal, “his coward lips … did lose his lustre … as a sick girl”. Shakespeare use of simile shows the differing friendship that Caesar shares with his noble friend Brutus. In the death of Caesar the true meaning of the motives killing Caesar are revealed through the use of the conflicting prospectives that taught the troubled mind of Brutus merciful killing and Cassius’s ambiguous motive.
ReplyDeleteshakespeare portrays the characters of brutus “an honourable man” and cassius “a wretched creature” in completely different lights from the outset and throughout the exposition of the tragedy of Julius caesar. from the beginning of the play we see how brutus is portrayed to the audience as an “honourable man”, this becomes clear to the audience when brutus contemplates the death of caesar “Vexèd I am””poor Brutus, with himself at war” the use of metaphor by shakespeare to portray how brutus is having a inner “war” and the mental quarrel that he his having within himself, portraying brutus as a intellectual and reasonable man towards the audience. “If it be aught toward the general good, Set honor in one eye and death i' th' other” once again we see shakespeare use a metaphor to illustrate brutus, though having made up his mind about killing caesar, brutus does have a noble reason behind the death of caesar as he believes it will be best for rome. shakespeare once again through metaphors reaffirms the notion that brutus is a honourable man because of his reasoning behind the death of caesar as he only wants what is best for rome. cassius is the inversion of brutus with his reasoning being completely different to that of brutus’ for the death of casear, where brutus chooses slay caesar for the good of rome, cassius’ motives are that he is jealous of caesar and in the conjuring of his plan he needs brutus to carry of the regicide of caesar. “he doth bestride the narrow world Like a Colossus, and we petty men Walk under his huge legs” Shakespeare's simile shows the jealousy of cassius towards caesar and his despicable nature, cassius towards the audience comes across as a bitter envious man, who is jealous of caesar and his power and feels that he does not deserve such power.
DeleteIt is evident that Shakespeare’s portrayal of Brutus differs greatly from the portrayal of Cassius in his exposition. Brutus is “a noble man” and when he admits to Cassius the he is “himself at war” we sympathize for him. Shakespeare’s use of the metaphor displays how Brutus, when faced with a difficult decision gets confused and does not want to make the wrong decision. Brutus wants what is better for Rome. “Since Cassius first did whet me against Caesar I have not slept”. The use of a pun alluding whet a blade (sharpen a blade) creates a sense of foreboding and gives in insight to the audience that Brutus is still confused about his decision for the betterment of Rome. Cassius is portrayed as a “wretched creature” and Shakespeare use the motive to kill to contrast the two characters. “We petty men walk under his huge legs and peep about to find ourselves dishonorable graves”. This negative use of metonymy shows us that Cassius is jealous of Caesar’s power and it is for this that he wants him killed. “It doth amaze me a man of such feeble temper should so get the start of the majestic world and bear the palm alone”. Shakespeare’s use of metonymy and descriptive language highlight the fact that Cassius hates Caesar because of the amount of power that he wields.
ReplyDeleteThroughout
ReplyDeletehistory, composers have explored key notions through the conflicting portrayal
of central characters. Shakespeare’s’ characterization of Brutus as gullible
and naïve is in stark contrast to the depiction of Cassius, who is represented
as deceitful and manipulative. Shakespeare employs various rhetoric devices to
present his ideas to the audiences. Brutus also being represented originally to
the audience as “an honorable man” and Shakespeare’s repetition of this makes
us question whether he is in fact not, and is just like the “wrenched creature”
Cassius. However later on when toiling about the plot Shakespeare shows Brutus
conflicting with Cassius about an oath, “no not an oath ….. if these motives be
weak, break of betimes, and every man hence to his idle bed”. Shakespeare uses authoritarian
tone in revealing the power of politics Brutus beholds. Cassius believing
Antony will avenge Caesar and again conflicting with Brutus “thus …. Let Antony
and Caesar fall together.
Brutus vs. Cassius
ReplyDeleteThe blatant contrast between Cassius and the “noble” Brutus is apparent since the opening Act of Shakespeare’s fictitious exposition. Their differentiating views on the formidable leader of Rome, Julius Caesar, is shown when Cassius expresses his resentment towards Caesar, stating “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.” The segregating views are evident as Cassius inexplicitly announces his jealously towards Caesar whilst Brutus defends his leader by arguing, “I have not known when his affections swayed more than his reason.” Cassius again attempts to demonise Julius Caesar, he tells Brutus a story in which he and Caesar were holding a swimming contest across the Tiber River, and Caesar started to drown. Cassius claims that he rescued Caesar and carried him to the shore. He then complains that Caesar has become so powerful that even though he once saved Caesar's life, he must now bow before him; “But ere we could arrive the point proposed, Caesar cried, “Help me, Cassius, or I sink!” I, as Aeneas, our great ancestor, did from the flames of Troy upon his shoulder the old Anchises bear, so from the waves of Tiber, did I the tired Caesar.” Cassius is able to use mythological imagery to support him, claiming that he is heroic as Aeneas, the creator of the Roman world.
Brutus vs. Antony
Brutus, although described as a “noble man” by Shakespeare, reaches a certain ultimatum. The dilemma Brutus faces is the choice between what he believes is best for his dearly beloved City of Rome or the trust and loyalty shared between himself and his honorary friend, Julius Caesar. His conundrum is expressed in Act 3, Scene 2, “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.” Antony expresses his belief when Caesar dies before him, that the world did in fact revolve around Caesar, “O world, thou waste the forest to this heart…O world, the heart of thee.” He then states to Cassius that his grief was nothing more than an obligation than a true sentimental farewell, “Pardon me, Caius Cassius. The enemies of Caesar shall say this; then, in a friend, it is cold modesty.”
The characters of Brutus and Cassius have been portrayed both with major differences. Cassius is depicted as a persuasive, shrewd, and violently jealous character, and Brutus a more noble and honourable yet naïve, character portrayed by Shakespeare. The viewing of the progressive persuasion and manipulation of Brutus by Cassius, as he presents the idea of assassinating Caesar, gives views of both characters. Shakespeare has fashioned this series of events, which makes his audience feel a scene of loath and hatred toward Cassius, and a semi sadness and frustration toward Brutus, as his naivety allows him to choose the wrong choice, the true tragedy of the story. We seen, with the obvious description of Cassius “ it doth amaze me a man of such feeble temper should so get the start of the majestic world and bear the palm alone”. In this exert we see with the use of metonymy and descriptive language, how Cassius despises and is jealous of Caesar and the power he possesses. As a result an negative image is painted of Cassius as we see his dangerous jealousy. During the assassination of Caesar Brutus’s noble yet persuadable character revealed, as he was once a good friend of Caesars ”et to brute, then fall Caesar”, with this we feel the true tragedy of Brutus’s actions, as he would have been one of last to act against Caesar, with the use of Latin and emotive Language, we see how Caesar, with the sight of Brutus, feels he has done something truly wrong and as a result, lets himself fall prey to Cassius and his dirty jealousy. In this moment the tragedy of Caesars death isn’t as profound as the his betrayal of brutus.
ReplyDeleteThe blatant contrast between how Shakespeare presents the “noble” Brutus and Cassius the “wretched creature” in Shakespeare’s fictitious tragedy “Julius Caesar” is immediately discernable to the audience. Brutus concurs that the death of Caesar is a necessary evil “not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more” Shakespeare’s use of simile shows that unlike Cassius, Brutus is doing what he thinks is for the good of Rome, thus creating conflict within the audience because they cannot decide how they feel about him. Cassius endeavors to convert Brutus from not only killing Caesar but to kill Mark Antony as well “it is a shrewd contriver… to annoy as all… let Antony and Caesar fall together” this juxtaposition of necessity and jealousy allow Shakespeare to present the audience with the situation of politics. Brutus takes a more pacifistic approach “to cut the head off and then hack the limbs like wrath in death and envy afterwards, for Antony is but a limb of Caesar”, quashing Cassius’s notion that Antony will wreck havoc upon them afterwards and providing another divide between Cassius and Brutus. As the two most influential characters, Brutus and Cassius are the embodiment of Shakespeare’s belief that a mixture of noble intentions and blind jealousy are volatile and can only cause destruction. Shakespeare skillfully uses the medium of a play to depict how death is part of the “natural orders” cyclical nature and how vital it is to restoring it; this is a common theme that reoccurs in many of Shakespeare’s tragic dramas.
ReplyDeleteAlthough both Antony and Brutus are depicted as “noble” Shakespeare presents the audience with conflict centered around the man which the fictitious tragedy is named after “Julius Caesar”, this conflict is easily ascertainable by the audience from the outset of the play. After Brutus and the conspirators murder Caesar, Brutus makes a speech in an attempt to placate the roman people “had you rather Caesar were living and die all slaves, than that Caesar were dead, to live all free men?” this contrast depicts the core element of Brutus’s mantra, that what he was doing was for the betterment of Rome. After Brutus’s speech, Antony speaks describing Brutus as “an honorable man” but contradicting Brutus by stating “did this in Caesar seem ambitious? When the poor have cried, Caesar hath wept. Ambition should be made of sterner stuff” Shakespeare uses Antony to cut through Brutus’s mirage of freeing the people from Caesar’s tyranny.