ICSE Class 9 English Drama Julius Caesar Act 1, Scene 2 Summary, Theme, Explanation along with difficult word meanings
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ICSE Class 9 Julius Caesar Act 1, Scene 2
By William Shakespeare
Act 1, Scene 2 of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar introduces important characters and shows the main conflict of the play. The scene takes place in a public area in Rome, where Caesar and his supporters celebrate his victory over Pompey’s sons. A soothsayer warns Caesar to ‘beware the Ides of March’, but Caesar ignores this warning. The scene also includes a conversation between Cassius and Brutus, where Cassius starts manipulating Brutus. He plays on Brutus’s insecurities and plants doubts about Caesar’s ambition.
- Julius Caesar Act 1, Scene 2 Summary
- Julius Caesar Act 1, Scene 2 Summary in Hindi
- Julius Caesar Act 1, Scene 2 Theme
- Julius Caesar Act 1, Scene 2 Explanation
Related:
- Julius Caesar Act 1, Scene 2 Question Answers
- Julius Caesar Act 1, Scene 2 Character Sketch
- ICSE Class 9 English Lesson Notes
Julius Caesar Act 1, Scene 2 Summary
In Act 1, Scene 2 of William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, the play begins with a public celebration in Rome. The scene opens with a fanfare and the entry of Julius Caesar, his wife Calphurnia, and his followers, including Mark Antony, Brutus, and Cassius. The atmosphere is festive as the Romans celebrate the feast of Lupercalia and Caesar’s recent military victory.
As the group passes through the crowd, a soothsayer calls out to Caesar, urging him to ‘Beware the ides of March’. This is a significant moment of foreshadowing. Caesar, however, dismisses the warning, calling the man a ‘dreamer’ and continuing on his way, showing his overconfidence and hubris.
After Caesar and his entourage leave, Brutus and Cassius remain behind. Cassius, a key conspirator against Caesar, begins his plan to persuade Brutus to join his cause. Cassius knows that Brutus is highly respected in Rome and is related to the legendary Lucius Junius Brutus, who helped found the Roman Republic. Cassius appeals to Brutus’s sense of honor and his fear that Caesar’s growing power will lead to the end of the Republic.
Cassius shares two personal anecdotes to undermine Caesar’s image as a god-like figure. He recounts a time when he had to save Caesar from drowning in the Tiber River and another time when Caesar suffered from a fever and a seizure in Spain, showing his physical weaknesses. He uses these stories to argue that Caesar is not superior to them, saying, ‘The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars/But in ourselves, that we are underlings’. He suggests that they, as Romans, are responsible for their own fate and should not be subservient to a single man.
Another significant event occurs while Brutus and Cassius are talking. They hear shouts from the crowd, which causes Brutus to fear that the people are making Caesar their king. When Casca returns from the race, Brutus and Cassius question him. Casca, in his blunt and satirical manner, explains that Mark Antony offered Caesar a crown three times. Caesar refused it each time, but Casca says he did so reluctantly, hinting that Caesar secretly desired the kingship.
Casca also reveals that during this event, Caesar had a seizure and fell, foaming at the mouth. He also mentions that Flavius and Murellus have been ‘put to silence’, which means they are executed or banished for removing decorations from Caesar’s statues, which further highlights Caesar’s intolerance for dissent. This conversation cements the conspirators’ resolve.
As the scene ends, Brutus agrees to meet with Cassius later to discuss the matter further, but he is still deeply conflicted. After Brutus leaves, Cassius delivers a soliloquy, revealing his plan to write anonymous letters in different handwritings and throw them through Brutus’s window. These letters will praise Brutus and subtly criticize Caesar’s ambition, hoping to sway Brutus to their side. This scene sets the stage for the conflict between loyalty and patriotism that will drive the rest of the play.
Summary of Julius Caesar Act 1, Scene 2 in Hindi
विलियम शेक्सपियर के जूलियस सीज़र के अधिनियम 1, दृश्य 2 में, नाटक रोम में एक सार्वजनिक उत्सव के साथ शुरू होता है। दृश्य एक धूमधाम और जूलियस सीज़र, उनकी पत्नी कैल्फ़र्निया और मार्क एंटनी, ब्रूटस और कैसियस सहित उनके अनुयायियों के प्रवेश के साथ शुरू होता है। माहौल उत्सवपूर्ण है क्योंकि रोमन लोग लुपरकेलिया और सीज़र की हाल की सैन्य जीत का पर्व मनाते हैं।
जैसे ही समूह भीड़ से गुजरता है, एक भविष्यवक्ता सीज़र को बुलाता है, उससे ‘मार्च के विचारों से सावधान रहने’ का आग्रह करता है। यह पूर्वाभास का एक महत्वपूर्ण क्षण है। हालांकि, सीज़र ने चेतावनी को खारिज करते हुए उस आदमी को ‘सपने देखने वाला’ कहा और अपने रास्ते पर जारी रखते हुए अपने अति आत्मविश्वास और घमंड को दिखाया।
सीज़र और उसके दल के जाने के बाद, ब्रूटस और कैसियस पीछे रह जाते हैं। कैसियस, सीज़र के खिलाफ एक प्रमुख साजिशकर्ता, ब्रूटस को अपने उद्देश्य में शामिल होने के लिए मनाने की अपनी योजना शुरू करता है। कैसियस जानता है कि रोम में ब्रूटस का बहुत सम्मान किया जाता है और वह पौराणिक लुसियस जूनियस ब्रूटस से संबंधित है, जिसने रोमन गणराज्य की स्थापना में मदद की थी। कैसियस ब्रूटस के सम्मान की भावना और उसके डर की अपील करता है कि सीज़र की बढ़ती शक्ति गणतंत्र के अंत की ओर ले जाएगी।
कैसियस भगवान जैसी आकृति के रूप में सीज़र की छवि को कमजोर करने के लिए दो व्यक्तिगत उपाख्यान साझा करते हैं। वह उस समय को याद करता है जब उसे सीज़र को टाइबर नदी में डूबने से बचाना था और एक और समय जब सीज़र को स्पेन में बुखार और दौरे से पीड़ित था, जो उसकी शारीरिक कमजोरियों को दर्शाता था। वह इन कहानियों का उपयोग यह तर्क देने के लिए करता है कि सीज़र उनसे श्रेष्ठ नहीं है, यह कहते हुए कि, ‘प्रिय ब्रूटस, गलती हमारे सितारों में नहीं है/बल्कि खुद में है, कि हम अंडरलिंग हैं’। उनका सुझाव है कि रोमन होने के नाते वे अपने भाग्य के लिए स्वयं जिम्मेदार हैं और उन्हें किसी एक व्यक्ति के अधीन नहीं होना चाहिए।
ब्रूटस और कैसियस के बात करते समय एक और महत्वपूर्ण घटना होती है। वे भीड़ से चिल्लाहट सुनते हैं, जिससे ब्रूटस को डर लगता है कि लोग सीज़र को अपना राजा बना रहे हैं। जब कास्का दौड़ से लौटता है, तो ब्रूटस और कैसियस उससे सवाल करते हैं। कास्का, अपने बेबाक और व्यंग्यात्मक तरीके से बताते हैं कि मार्क एंटनी ने सीज़र को तीन बार मुकुट की पेशकश की थी। सीज़र ने हर बार इसे अस्वीकार कर दिया, लेकिन कास्का का कहना है कि उसने अनिच्छा से ऐसा किया, यह संकेत देते हुए कि सीज़र गुप्त रूप से राजत्व चाहता था।
कास्का से यह भी पता चलता है कि इस घटना के दौरान, सीज़र को दौरा पड़ा और वह मुँह से झाग लेकर गिर गया। उन्होंने यह भी उल्लेख किया है कि फ्लेवियस और मुरेलस को ‘चुप करा दिया गया है’, जिसका अर्थ है कि उन्हें सीज़र की मूर्तियों से सजावट हटाने के लिए मार दिया जाता है या निर्वासित कर दिया जाता है, जो आगे असहमति के लिए सीज़र की असहिष्णुता को उजागर करता है। यह बातचीत षड्यंत्रकारियों के संकल्प को मजबूत करती है।
जैसे ही दृश्य समाप्त होता है, ब्रूटस मामले पर आगे चर्चा करने के लिए बाद में कैसियस से मिलने के लिए सहमत हो जाता है, लेकिन वह अभी भी गहराई से विवादित है। ब्रूटस के जाने के बाद, कैसियस ने अलग-अलग हस्तलेखन में गुमनाम पत्र लिखने और उन्हें ब्रूटस की खिड़की से फेंकने की अपनी योजना का खुलासा करते हुए एक स्वगत भाषण दिया। ये पत्र ब्रूटस की प्रशंसा करेंगे और ब्रूटस को अपने पक्ष में करने की उम्मीद में सीज़र की महत्वाकांक्षा की सूक्ष्मता से आलोचना करेंगे। यह दृश्य निष्ठा और देशभक्ति के बीच संघर्ष के लिए मंच तैयार करता है जो बाकी नाटक को चलाएगा।
Theme of Julius Caesar Act 1, Scene 2
Ambition and Power
One of the main themes explored in this scene is ambition, specifically the ambition of Julius Caesar. The scene shows the Roman people celebrating Caesar, suggesting they support his rise to power. However, Cassius and Casca believe that Caesar’s ambition is a threat to the Roman Republic, and that he wants to be a king. This theme is highlighted when Antony offers Caesar the crown three times and he rejects it, not because he doesn’t want it, but because he sees that the crowd would not accept a king. Casca says, ‘he would fain have had it’, meaning he wished he could have taken the crown. This moment reveals Caesar’s cleverness and his hidden desire for more power, which is the main source of conflict in the play.
Fate vs. Free Will
Another major theme is the conflict between fate and free will. When the soothsayer warns Caesar to ‘Beware the ides of March’, he is presenting a fate that Caesar cannot escape. But Caesar ignores the warning, believing that he is in control of his own destiny and that the soothsayer is just a ‘dreamer’. On the other hand, Cassius’s famous line, ‘The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, / But in ourselves, that we are underlings’, argues for free will. He is telling Brutus that they are not powerless and that they have the ability to change their lives and Rome’s future. Cassius believes that they, and not some higher power, are responsible for their situation, which is a key part of his argument to convince Brutus to act against Caesar.
Public Self vs. Private Self
This scene also explores the difference between how people act in public and how they act in private. In front of the Roman people, Caesar appears to be a powerful and respected leader who is modest and declines the crown. But in private, we learn from Cassius that Caesar is physically weak and has a ‘falling sickness’ i.e. epilepsy. This contrast shows that Caesar’s public image is carefully crafted to hide his weaknesses. Similarly, Brutus is torn between his public duty to Rome and his private love for Caesar. He admits to Cassius that he is ‘with himself at war’, showing his internal struggle. This theme highlights how the characters’ true feelings and intentions are often hidden behind a public persona.
Honor and Patriotism
The concepts of honor and patriotism are central to Cassius’s manipulation of Brutus. Cassius knows that Brutus values honor more than his own life, and he uses this to his advantage. He appeals to Brutus’s love for Rome and its ideals, and convinces him that by joining the conspiracy, he will be acting honorably to save the Republic from Caesar’s ambition. When Brutus says that he loves ‘the name of honor more than I fear death’, it shows that he is willing to sacrifice anything, even his own life, for what he believes is right. This theme is crucial because it drives Brutus’s decision to betray his friend for the greater good of Rome.
Setting of the Scene
The setting of Act 1, Scene 2 of Julius Caesar is a public street in Rome during the feast of Lupercal. This festival is significant because it’s a bustling public event that allows Shakespeare to introduce a large number of characters, including Caesar, Antony, Brutus, and Cassius, and to show the public’s opinion of Caesar. It is also the scene where a soothsayer gives Caesar the first major warning about the Ides of March.
Julius Caesar Act 1, Scene 2 Explanation
Play
Act 1, Scene 2
A trumpet sounds. CAESAR enters, along with ANTONY who is dressed for a traditional foot race, as well as CALPHURNIA, PORTIA, DECIUS, CICERO, BRUTUS, CASSIUS, and CASCA, followed by great crowd of commoners, including a SOOTHSAYER. MURELLUS and FLAVIUS follow after.
CAESAR
Calphurnia
CASCA
Peace, ho ! Caesar speaks
CAESAR
Calphurnia
CALPHURNIA
Here, my lord.
CAESAR
Stand you directly in Antonius’ way
When he doth run his course. —Antonius!
ANTONY
Caesar, my lord.
CAESAR
Forget not in your speed, Antonius,
To touch Calphurnia, for our elders say
The barren, touched in this holy chase,
Shake off their sterile curse.
ANTONY
I shall remember.
When Caesar says, “do this,” it is performed.
Word Meanings
Doth: An old form of the word ‘does’.
Dressed for a traditional foot race: Antony is wearing the appropriate attire for a ritual running event.
The barren: Refers to a woman who is unable to have children.
Holy chase: The sacred footrace that is part of the Roman festival of Lupercalia.
Shake off their sterile curse: This means to get rid of their inability to have children. ‘Sterile’ means unable to reproduce, and ‘curse’ refers to a misfortune.
Doth run his course: A phrase meaning ‘runs his race’ or ‘completes his path’.
Ho!: A shout used to get someone’s attention or command silence.
Explanation of the above dialogues—The scene begins with a trumpet blast announcing the arrival of Caesar and his entourage. Among them are his wife Calphurnia, his loyal friend Antony, and other notable Romans like Brutus and Cassius. They are followed by a large crowd. Caesar immediately calls out to Calphurnia. Casca tells everyone to be quiet because Caesar is speaking. Caesar tells Calphurnia to stand in Antony’s path as he runs a race. He then calls out to Antony, reminding him to touch Calphurnia as he runs. Caesar explains that according to an old belief, a barren woman touched during this special race will be cured of her infertility. Antony replies that he will not forget, stating that he always does as Caesar commands.
Play
CAESAR
Set on, and leave no ceremony out.
Music plays.
SOOTHSAYER
Caesar!
CAESAR
Ha! Who calls?
CASCA
Bid every noise be still. Peace yet again.
The music stops.
CAESAR
Who is it in the press that calls on me?
I hear a tongue, shriller than all the music,
Cry “Caesar!” —Speak. Caesar is turned to hear.
SOOTHSAYER
Beware the ides of March.
CAESAR
What man is that?
BRUTUS
A soothsayer bids you beware the ides of March.
CAESAR
Set him before me. Let me see his fa
Word Meanings
Set on: To start moving or to begin.
Ceremony: A formal act or ritual, in this case, the procession and race of the festival of Lupercal.
Bid: To command or order.
Still: Silent; quiet.
Press: A crowd or throng of people.
Shriller: Having a higher, sharper sound.
Turned to hear: He has stopped and is now listening intently.
Soothsayer: A person who can see the future or foretell events.
Beware: To be cautious or wary of someone or something.
Ides of March: The 15th day of March in the Roman calendar.
Set him before me: Bring him to the front so he is in my sight.
Explanation of the above dialogues—Caesar, surrounded by his followers, orders the ceremony to begin and for the procession to move on. As music starts to play, a voice from the crowd calls out to him. Caesar, surprised, stops and asks who is calling. Casca commands everyone to be quiet so Caesar can hear. The music stops. Caesar then asks the crowd to identify the person whose voice was louder than the music, telling him to speak up so he can listen. The Soothsayer, the man who called out, gives his famous warning: ‘Beware the ides of March’. When Caesar asks who the man is, Brutus steps forward to identify him as a Soothsayer who is telling Caesar to be cautious on March 15th. Caesar then orders the man to be brought to the front of the crowd so he can look at him directly.
Play
CASSIUS
Fellow, come from the throng. Look upon Caesar.
The SOOTHSAYER approaches.
CAESAR
What sayst thou to me now? Speak once again.
SOOTHSAYER
Beware the ides of March.
CAESAR
He is a dreamer. Let us leave him. Pass!
Trumpets play. Everyone exits, except BRUTUS and CASSIUS.
Word Meanings
Throng: A large, densely packed crowd of people.
Soothsayer: A person who can see the future and make predictions.
Ides of March: The 15th day of March, which was a specific date in the ancient Roman calendar.
Dreamer: In this context, it means a foolish, impractical, or deluded person.
Pass: An instruction to move on or continue.
Explanation of the above dialogues—Cassius calls out to the Soothsayer, telling him to come out of the crowd and stand before Caesar. Caesar asks the Soothsayer to repeat what he said. The Soothsayer says his warning again: ‘Beware the ides of March’. Caesar dismisses the Soothsayer as a mere ‘dreamer’ and tells everyone to move on. A trumpet sounds, and everyone leaves the stage except for Brutus and Cassius, who remain behind.
Play
CASSIUS
Will you go see the order of the course?
BRUTUS
Not I.
CASSIUS
I pray you, do.
BRUTUS
I am not gamesome. I do lack some part
Of that quick spirit that is in Antony.
Let me not hinder, Cassius, your desires.
I’ll leave you.
CASSIUS
Brutus, I do observe you now of late
I have not from your eyes that gentleness
And show of love as I was wont to have.
You bear too stubborn and too strange a hand
Over your friend that loves you.
BRUTUS
Cassius,
Be not deceived. If I have veiled my look,
I turn the trouble of my countenance
Merely upon myself. Vexèd I am
Of late with passions of some difference,
Conceptions only proper to myself,
Which give some soil perhaps to my behaviors.
But let not therefore, my good friends, be grieved—
Among which number, Cassius, be you one—
Nor construe any further my neglect
Than that poor Brutus, with himself at war,
Forgets the shows of love to other men.
Word Meanings
Gamesome: Playful, lively, or fond of games.
Stubborn: In this context, it means unyielding, uncooperative, or ungracious.
Deceived: Misled, fooled, or mistaken.
Countenance: A person’s face or facial expression.
Vexed: Annoyed, frustrated, or worried.
Passions of some difference: Conflicting or varying emotions and thoughts.
Conceptions only proper to myself: Thoughts or ideas that are unique and personal to him.
Soil: To stain, tarnish, or spoil; in this case, his behavior
Construe: Interpret or understand.
Explanation of the above dialogues—Cassius inquired if Brutus intended to watch the traditional footrace. Brutus declined, stating that he was not gamesome and felt he lacked some of the lively spirit that Antony possessed. He suggested that Cassius should not let him (Brutus) hinder his desires and offered to leave him. Cassius then observed that Brutus had not shown the usual gentleness and affection in his eyes recently. He felt that Brutus was treating his loving friend with a stubborn and unfamiliar manner. Brutus responded, asking Cassius not to be deceived. He explained that if his expression seemed concealed, it was because he was directing his troubled appearance solely upon himself. He admitted that he had recently been annoyed by various conflicting emotions and personal thoughts. These internal struggles, he conceded, might have somewhat soiled his behavior. However, he urged his good friends, including Cassius, not to be upset or interpret his neglect as anything more than poor Brutus being at war with himself, causing him to forget how to show affection to others.
Play
CASSIUS
Then, Brutus, I have much mistook your passion,
By means whereof this breast of mine hath buried
Thoughts of great value, worthy cogitations.
Tell me, good Brutus, can you see your face?
BRUTUS
No, Cassius, for the eye sees not itself
But by reflection, by some other things.
CASSIUS
‘Tis just.
And it is very much lamented, Brutus,
That you have no such mirrors as will turn
Your hidden worthiness into your eye
That you might see your shadow. I have heard
Where many of the best respect in Rome,
Except immortal Caesar, speaking of Brutus
And groaning underneath this age’s yoke,
Have wished that noble Brutus had his eyes.
Word Meanings
Passion: it refers to one’s mood, feelings, or emotional state.
By means whereof: Through which; as a result of which.
Hath buried: Has hidden or kept secret.
Worthy cogitations: Important thoughts or valuable ideas.
Reflection: The act of thinking about something, or literally, an image produced by a mirror. In this context, it’s about seeing oneself through the perspective of others.
‘Tis just: It is true or correct.
Lamented: Regretted; felt sad about.
Hidden worthiness: Secret or unrecognized good qualities and value.
Shadow: it means one’s true self or potential, what one casts as an impression.
Best respect: People who are highly regarded or respected.
Immortal: Living forever; not subject to death. Cassius uses this sarcastically to refer to Caesar.
Groaning underneath this age’s yoke: Suffering under the burden or oppression of the current time, specifically referring to Caesar’s growing power.
Had his eyes: Wished that Brutus could see his own true nature and potential, and the reality of the political situation.
Explanation of the above dialogues—Cassius then told Brutus that he had completely misunderstood Brutus’s mood. Because of this misunderstanding, Cassius explained, he had kept many valuable thoughts and important ideas hidden within himself. He then challenged Brutus, asking if he could see his own face. Brutus responded by saying no, explaining that just as an eye cannot see itself directly, a person can only understand their own nature through reflection from other things or people. Cassius agreed with this point, expressing his regret that Brutus lacked such mirrors to show him his hidden greatness. Cassius then mentioned that he had heard many of Rome’s most respected citizens, all except for the supposedly immortal Caesar, speak about Brutus while complaining about the heavy burden of the current times. These citizens, Cassius claimed, wished that the noble Brutus could truly see his own potential and realize how vital he was.
Play
BRUTUS
Into what dangers would you lead me, Cassius,
That you would have me seek into myself
For that which is not in me?
CASSIUS
Therefore, good Brutus, be prepared to hear.
And since you know you cannot see yourself
So well as by reflection, I, your glass,
Will modestly discover to yourself
That of yourself which you yet know not of.
And be not jealous on me, gentle Brutus.
Were I a common laugher, or did use
To stale with ordinary oaths my love
To every new protester, if you know
That I do fawn on men and hug them hard
And, after, scandal them, or if you know
That I profess myself in banqueting
To all the rout, then hold me dangerous.
Trumpets play, and then a shout sounds.
Word Meanings
seek into myself: To look inside oneself for personal qualities or motives.
reflection: The image of something as seen in a mirror or on a shiny surface.
I, your glass: A metaphor where “glass” means mirror. Cassius is saying he will be a mirror for Brutus.
modestly discover: To humbly reveal or show something.
jealous on me: To be suspicious or distrustful of me.
laugher: A person who laughs easily; here, it refers to a flatterer or a person who doesn’t take things seriously.
stale with ordinary oaths: To make a promise or expression of friendship seem cheap and meaningless by using it too often.
protester: Someone who claims to be a friend.
fawn on men: To show excessive affection or to act like a servant to win favor.
scandal them: To speak ill of them or spread gossip after pretending to be their friend.
profess myself in banqueting to all the rout: To loudly announce one’s friendship to everyone at a feast.
rout: The crowd, the common people, or a mob.
Explanation of the above dialogues—Brutus questioned what kind of danger Cassius was trying to lead him into, and why Cassius wanted him to look for something within himself that he believed wasn’t there. In response, Cassius told Brutus to be ready to listen. He said that since Brutus couldn’t see his own virtues on his own, Cassius would act as a mirror to show him qualities about himself that he didn’t yet know. He also reassured Brutus not to be suspicious of him. Cassius told Brutus that if he were a man who laughed at everything or if he cheapened his affection with common, insincere promises to every new person he met, then Brutus should consider him dangerous. He continued by saying that if Brutus knew him to flatter people, hug them closely, and then speak badly of them later, or if he knew that Cassius publicly declared his friendship to everyone at banquets, then Brutus should hold him as dangerous.
Play
BRUTUS
What means this shouting? I do fear, the people
Choose Caesar for their king.
CASSIUS
Ay, do you fear it?
Then must I think you would not have it so.
BRUTUS
I would not, Cassius. Yet I love him well.
But wherefore do you hold me here so long?
What is it that you would impart to me?
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.
Word Meanings
Wherefore: An older way of saying ‘why’.
Impart: To communicate, disclose, or tell information to someone.
Aught: Anything (an archaic word).
General good: The well-being or benefit of all people in society; the common good.
Indifferently: In this context, it means without preference or bias; impartially.
So speed me: An old expression meaning ‘may the gods help me’ or ‘as truly as I mean this’.
Explanation of the above dialogues—Brutus wondered about the meaning of the shouting he heard and expressed his fear that the people might be choosing Caesar as their king. Cassius then asked if Brutus truly feared this outcome, inferring that Brutus would not wish Caesar to become king. Brutus confirmed that he did not want Caesar to be king, despite admitting that he loved Caesar personally. He then questioned Cassius, asking why he was keeping him there for so long and what important message he wished to share. Brutus declared that if the message concerned the public’s well-being, he would consider both honor and death without bias, because he valued his reputation and moral standing more than he feared dying.
Play
CASSIUS
I know that virtue to be in you, Brutus,
As well as I do know your outward favor.
Well, honor is the subject of my story.
I cannot tell what you and other men
Think of this life, but, for my single self,
I had as lie not be as live to be
In awe of such a thing as I myself.
I was born free as Caesar. So were you.
We both have fed as well, and we can both
Endure the winter’s cold as well as he.
For once upon a raw and gusty day,
The troubled Tiber chafing with her shores,
Caesar said to me, “Darest thou, Cassius, now
Leap in with me into this angry flood
And swim to yonder point?” Upon the word,
Accoutred as I was, I plunged in
And bade him follow. So indeed he did.
The torrent roared, and we did buffet it
With lusty sinews, throwing it aside
And stemming it with hearts of controversy.
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. And this man
Is now become a god, and Cassius is
A wretched creature and must bend his body
If Caesar carelessly but nod on him.
He had a fever when he was in Spain,
And when the fit was on him, I did mark
How he did shake. ‘Tis true, this god did shake!
His coward lips did from their color fly,
And that same eye whose bend doth awe the world
Did lose his luster. I did hear him groan,
Ay, and that tongue of his that bade the Romans
Mark him and write his speeches in their books—
“Alas,” it cried, “give me some drink, Titinius,”
As a sick girl. Ye gods, it doth amaze me
A man of such a feeble temper should
So get the start of the majestic world
And bear the palm alone.
(A shout offstage. Trumpets play.)
Word Meanings
Virtue: Moral excellence; goodness; a commendable quality.
Outward favour: External appearance; how someone looks on the outside.
Honour: High respect; a quality that upholds a person’s good name and reputation.
Lief: As soon; as gladly
In awe: Filled with a feeling of fear, respect, and wonder.
Chafing: Rubbing or irritating; in this context, the river was eroding or disturbing its banks.
Darest thou: Do you dare; are you brave enough.
Yonder: At some distance in the direction indicated; over there.
Accoutred: Dressed or equipped, especially with military attire or gear.
Plunged in: Jumped or dived quickly into something.
Bade: Commanded or instructed; past tense of ‘bid’.
Torrent: A strong and fast-moving stream of water or other liquid.
Buffet: To strike or push repeatedly, especially with the hands or fists; to contend against or struggle with.
Lusty sinews: Strong, vigorous muscles.
Stemming it: Resisting or holding back the force of something (the current).
Hearts of controversy: Spirits of defiance or struggle; a contentious or combative will.
Ere: Before.
Anchises: In Roman mythology, the mortal father of Aeneas.
Wretched: Unhappy; miserable; contemptible.
Bend his body: To humble oneself; to bow in submission.
Nod on him: To give a casual gesture of acknowledgment or command.
Fit was on him: He was suffering from an attack or seizure (referring to epilepsy).
Did mark: Noticed; observed.
Shake: Tremble or shiver.
His coward lips did from their color fly: His lips lost their natural red color and turned pale, suggesting fear or weakness.
Whose bend doth awe: Whose gaze or glance inspires fear or respect.
Did lose his luster: Lost his brightness or shine; looked dull and lifeless.
Groan: To make a deep, inarticulate sound in response to pain or distress.
Bade the Romans Mark him and write his speeches in their books: Commanded the Romans to pay close attention to him and record his words.
Alas: An exclamation of grief, pity, or concern.
Sick girl: Used metaphorically to emphasize Caesar’s perceived weakness and vulnerability.
Ye gods: An exclamation of surprise or exasperation.
Doth amaze me: Amazes me.
Feeble temper: Weak disposition or constitution; a fragile physical and mental state.
Get the start of the majestic world: To gain an advantage or head start over the rest of the world i.e., rise to power.
Bear the palm alone: To win all the honors or glory by himself.
Explanation of the above dialogues—Cassius stated that he knew Brutus possessed great virtue and was also familiar with his outward appearance. He then declared that honor was the main topic of his discussion. Cassius said he couldn’t know what Brutus and other men thought of life, but for himself, he would rather not live at all than to exist in awe of someone who was merely human, just like himself. He reminded Brutus that both of them were born free, just like Caesar. They had both eaten well, and both could endure the cold of winter as well as Caesar could. Cassius then recalled an incident on a cold and windy day when the swollen Tiber River was roughly hitting its banks. Caesar had asked Cassius if he dared to jump into the strong current with him and swim to a distant point. Cassius immediately plunged in, fully dressed, and told Caesar to follow, which Caesar did. The river roared, and they fought against it with strong muscles, pushing the water aside and resisting it with determined hearts. However, before they could reach the intended point, Caesar cried out for Cassius’s help, saying that he would sink otherwise. Cassius then compared himself to Aeneas, their great ancestor, who carried his old father, Anchises, from the burning city of Troy on his shoulder. Similarly, Cassius said he rescued the exhausted Caesar from the waves of the Tiber. He then lamented that this same man, Caesar, had now become like a god, while Cassius felt like a miserable creature who had to bow if Caesar simply nodded carelessly at him. Cassius further revealed that Caesar had suffered from a fever when he was in Spain. When Caesar was having a fit (seizure), Cassius had observed how much he shook. He emphasized that even this ‘god’ had trembled. Caesar’s lips had lost their color due to fear, and his eye, which usually commanded the world, had lost its brightness. Cassius heard Caesar groan and even cry out for a drink, calling for Titinius ‘as a sick girl’. Cassius expressed his amazement that a man with such a feeble nature could achieve such dominance over the world and claim all the glory alone. A shout was then heard offstage, accompanied by trumpets playing.
Play
BRUTUS
Another general shout!
I do believe that these applauses are
For some new honors that are heaped on Caesar.
CASSIUS
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.
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.
Brutus and Caesar—what should be in that “Caesar?”
Why should that name be sounded more than yours?
Write them together, yours is as fair a name.
Sound them, it doth become the mouth as well.
Weigh them, it is as heavy. Conjure with ’em,
“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 grown so great? Age, thou art shamed!
Rome, thou hast lost the breed of noble bloods!
When went there by an age, since the great flood,
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?
Now is it Rome indeed, and room enough,
When there is in it but one only man.
Oh, you and I have heard our fathers say,
There was a Brutus once that would have brooked
Th’ eternal devil to keep his state in Rome
As easily as a king.
Word Meanings
Bestride: To stand over something with a leg on each side.
Colossus: A massive statue, referring to the ancient Colossus of Rhodes, a giant statue of the sun god Helios.
Petty: Of little importance; trivial.
Dishonorable: Lacking honor or integrity; disgraceful.
Underlings: People of lower rank or authority.
Conjure with ’em: To call upon a spirit using their name, suggesting the power of a name.
Brooked: To tolerate or allow.
Eternal devil: A phrase used to represent the ultimate evil or a terrifying force.
Explanation of the above dialogues—Brutus heard another general shout and told Cassius that he believed the cheers were for some new honors being given to Caesar. Cassius responded by saying that Caesar was acting as if he was a Colossus, a gigantic statue that stood with its legs apart, and that ordinary men like them were forced to walk under his immense legs, and their lives were so insignificant that their only goal seemed to be finding a place to die without honor. Cassius then stated that people could be the masters of their own destiny, and that it wasn’t fate that made them inferior, but their own inaction. He then questioned why the name ‘Caesar’ was so much more powerful than ‘Brutus’. He argued that if they were written together, Brutus’s name looked just as good. He also claimed that when spoken, ‘Brutus’ sounded just as pleasing, and when weighed, it was just as heavy as ‘Caesar’. He even said that using the name ‘Brutus’ in a spell would summon a spirit just as quickly. He then asked what Caesar had eaten to become so great, and accused their age of being ashamed because Rome had lost its noble men. He pointed out that throughout history, Rome had never been dominated by just one famous person. He said that it was now truly ‘Rome’, with a single man occupying all the power. He reminded Brutus of his ancestor, a man who would have never tolerated a king in Rome. Brutus replied that he was not worried about Cassius’s affections and that he understood what Cassius was trying to convince him to do. He promised to think about everything Cassius had said and that they would find a proper time to talk again. In the meantime, Brutus asked Cassius to consider this: he would rather live as a poor villager than be a Roman citizen under the difficult circumstances that seemed to be coming.
Play
BRUTUS
That you do love me, I am nothing jealous.
What you would work me to, I have some aim.
How I have thought of this and of these times
I shall recount hereafter. For this present,
I would not, so with love I might entreat you,
Be any further moved. What you have said
I will consider, what you have to say
I will with patience hear, and find a time
Both meet to hear and answer such high things.
Till then, my noble friend, chew upon this:
Brutus had rather be a villager
Than to repute himself a son of Rome
Under these hard conditions as this time
Is like to lay upon us.
Word Meanings
Jealous: means suspicious or doubtful. Brutus is saying he doesn’t doubt Cassius’s love for him.
Recount: To narrate or tell a story or series of events.
Entreat: To ask someone earnestly or plead with them.
Meet: it means appropriate or fitting.
Chew upon this: A figurative phrase meaning to think about or consider something carefully.
Repute: To be generally considered or to have a reputation of being a certain way.
Explanation of the above dialogues—Brutus responded that he was not at all suspicious of Cassius’s affections for him. He said that he had a sense of what Cassius was trying to persuade him to do. He promised to explain his own thoughts on the matter and on the current state of affairs at a later time. For now, he kindly asked Cassius not to pressure him any further. Brutus assured him that he would carefully consider everything Cassius had said, and he would listen patiently to anything else Cassius had to say. He would find a suitable time to hear and respond to such serious matters. Until that time, he asked Cassius to think about what he was about to say. Brutus declared that he would rather be a humble villager than to consider himself a Roman citizen under the difficult circumstances that the present time seemed to be bringing upon them.
Play
CASSIUS
I am glad that my weak words
Have struck but thus much show of fire from Brutus.
CAESAR enters with his followers, including CASCA.
BRUTUS
The games are done and Caesar is returning.
CASSIUS
As they pass by, pluck Casca by the sleeve,
And he will, after his sour fashion, tell you
What hath proceeded worthy note today.
BRUTUS
I will do so. But, look you, Cassius,
The angry spot doth glow on Caesar’s brow,
And all the rest look like a chidden train.
Calphurnia’s cheek is pale, and Cicero
Looks with such ferret and such fiery eyes
As we have seen him in the Capitol
Being crossed in conference by some senators.
CASSIUS
Casca will tell us what the matter is.
Word Meanings
Struck but thus much show of fire: To create a small spark of anger or emotion.
Pluck: To pull or tug quickly.
Sour fashion: A bitter, cynical, or rude way of speaking.
Hath proceeded worthy note: What has happened that is worth paying attention to.
Doth glow: To shine with an intense color.
Chidden train: A group of followers who look as if they have been scolded or rebuked.
Ferret and such fiery eyes: A comparison to the fierce, red eyes of a ferret, suggesting anger or agitation.
Crossed in conference: To be challenged or contradicted during a discussion.
Explanation of the above dialogues—Brutus said that the games were over and that Caesar was returning. Cassius instructed Brutus to pull Casca by the sleeve as they passed by, explaining that Casca would, in his usual sour and sarcastic way, tell them what had happened that day that was worth noting. Brutus agreed to do so. Brutus then drew Cassius’s attention to the approaching group, noting that an angry spot was glowing on Caesar’s forehead, and all of his followers looked like a group that had been scolded. He also observed that Calphurnia’s cheek was pale and that Cicero had fiery, narrowed eyes, just as they had seen him look when he was being contradicted by senators in the Capitol. Cassius reassured Brutus that Casca would tell them what was wrong.
Play
As CAESAR and ANTONY talk, BRUTUS pulls CASCA by the sleeve.
CAESAR
Antonio.
ANTONY
Caesar.
CAESAR
[aside to ANTONY] 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.
ANTONY
[aside to CAESAR] Fear him not, Caesar. He’s not dangerous.
He is a noble Roman and well given.
CAESAR
[aside to ANTONY] Would he were fatter! But I fear him not.
Yet if my name were liable to fear,
I do not know the man I should avoid
So soon as that spare Cassius. He reads much.
He is a great observer, and he looks
Quite through the deeds of men. He loves no plays,
As thou dost, Antony. He hears no music.
Seldom he smiles, and smiles in such a sort
As if he mocked himself and scorned his spirit
That could be moved to smile at anything.
Such men as he be never at heart’s ease
Whiles they behold a greater than themselves,
And therefore are they very dangerous.
I rather tell thee what is to be feared
Than what I fear, for always I am Caesar.
Come on my right hand, for this ear is deaf,
And tell me truly what thou think’st of him.
Trumpets play. CAESAR exits with all his followers except CASCA.
Word Meanings
Sleek-headed: Having smooth or well-combed hair. It suggests a lack of worry.
Yond: A contraction of the word “yonder,” meaning “that man over there.”
Well given: A person who is well-mannered or has a good disposition.
Liable to: To be likely to do or to be in a certain state.
Spare: Thin, skinny.
Looks quite through the deeds of men: To see or understand the true motives behind people’s actions.
At heart’s ease: To feel calm and free from worry.
Behold: To see or observe.
Explanation of the above dialogues—As Caesar and Antony spoke, Brutus pulled Casca by the sleeve. Caesar addressed Antony. Antony responded to Caesar. Caesar then spoke aside to Antony, saying that he preferred to have fat, calm, and well-rested men around him. He noted that Cassius, in contrast, looked thin and ambitious, and thought too much, which Caesar considered dangerous. Antony, also speaking aside to Caesar, told him not to fear Cassius, assuring him that Cassius wasn’t dangerous and was a noble Roman with a good reputation. Caesar, still speaking aside to Antony, wished Cassius were fatter. He reiterated that he wasn’t afraid of Cassius, but if he were capable of fear, Cassius would be the man he’d avoid most. Caesar observed that Cassius read a lot, was very observant, and could see through people’s true intentions. He also noted that Cassius didn’t enjoy plays like Antony did, nor did he listen to music. Caesar remarked that Cassius rarely smiled, and when he did, it seemed as if he was mocking himself and despising his own spirit for being able to find joy in anything. Caesar concluded that such men are never truly content when they see someone greater than themselves, and that’s why they are very dangerous. He then stated that he would rather explain what should be feared than admit his own fears, because he would always maintain his image as Caesar. Finally, he asked Antony to come to his right side because his left ear was deaf, and to tell him truthfully what he thought of Cassius. Trumpets played, and Caesar exited with all his followers except Casca.
Play
CASCA
[to BRUTUS]
You pulled me by the cloak. Would you speak with me?
BRUTUS
Ay, Casca. Tell us what hath chanced today
That Caesar looks so sad.
CASCA
Why, you were with him, were you not?
BRUTUS
I should not then ask Casca what had chanced.
CASCA
Why, there was a crown offered him; and, being offered him, he put it by with the back of his hand, thus; and then the people fell a-shouting.
BRUTUS
What was the second noise for?
CASCA
Why, for that too.
CASSIUS
They shouted thrice. What was the last cry for?
CASCA
Why, for that too.
BRUTUS
Was the crown offered him thrice?
CASCA
Ay, marry, was ’t, and he put it by thrice, every time gentler than other, and at every putting-by mine honest neighbors shouted.
CASSIUS
Who offered him the crown?
CASCA
Why, Antony.
BRUTUS
Tell us the manner of it, gentle Casca.
Word Meanings
Hath chanced: Has happened.
Put it by: Pushed it away or rejected it.
Thrice: Three times.
Marry: An old-fashioned exclamation, originally a reference to the Virgin Mary, used to express surprise or to emphasize a statement.
Explanation of the above dialogues—Casca asked Brutus why he had pulled on his cloak, and if he wished to speak with him. Brutus confirmed that he did, and asked Casca to tell them what had happened that day to make Caesar look so sad. Casca sarcastically replied that Brutus had been with Caesar and shouldn’t have to ask, to which Brutus said that if he knew what had happened, he wouldn’t be asking Casca. Casca then began to explain, saying that a crown had been offered to Caesar. When it was offered, Caesar pushed it away with the back of his hand, and the people began to shout. Brutus asked what the second and third shouts were for, and Casca said they were for the same reason. When Cassius asked who had offered Caesar the crown, Casca replied that it was Antony. Brutus then asked Casca to describe the details of the event.
Play
CASCA
I can as well be hanged as tell the manner of it. It
was mere foolery. I did not mark it. I saw Mark Antony
offer him a crown (yet ’twas not a crown neither, ’twas
one of these coronets) and, as I told you, he put it by
once—but, for all that, to my thinking, he would fain
have had it. Then he offered it to him again, then he
put it by again—but, to my thinking, he was very loath
to lay his fingers off it. And then he offered it the
third time. He put it the third time by. And still, as
he refused it, the rabblement hooted and clapped their
chopp’d hands and threw up their sweaty night-caps and
uttered such a deal of stinking breath because Caesar
refused the crown that it had almost choked Caesar—for
he swooned and fell down at it. And for mine own part, I
durst not laugh for fear of opening my lips and
receiving the bad air.
Word Meanings
Foolery: Foolish or silly behavior.
Coronets: A small crown, often worn by royalty or a lesser noble, as opposed to a full-sized crown.
Fain: An old word meaning gladly or with pleasure. Casca says Caesar would ‘fain have had it’, meaning he would have gladly accepted the crown.
Loath: Unwilling or reluctant. Casca says Caesar was ‘very loath to lay his fingers off it’, meaning he was very reluctant to let go of the coronet.
Rabblement: A rabble or mob; a disorderly crowd of common people.
Chopp’d: An older spelling of chapped, referring to hands that are rough and cracked from manual labor.
Swooned: To faint.
Durst: An archaic form of dared.
Perceiv’d: An older form of perceived, meaning to become aware of something.
Explanation of the above dialogues—Casca said that he would rather be hanged than explain the details of the event, calling it ‘mere foolery’. He claimed he did not pay much attention but that he saw Mark Antony offer Caesar a crown, though it was more of a small coronet. Casca said that Caesar refused it once, but that Casca thought he secretly wished he could have had it. Then, Antony offered it a second time, and Caesar refused it again, but in a way that seemed to show he was very unwilling to let go of it. When Antony offered it for a third time, Caesar refused it again. As Caesar refused the crown, the common people hooted and clapped their rough hands, throwing their sweaty caps into the air and cheering. The crowd’s cheers and the bad air from their ‘stinking breath’ almost suffocated Caesar, causing him to faint and fall down. Casca said that for his part, he did not dare to laugh for fear of opening his mouth and breathing in the foul air from the crowd.
Play
CASSIUS
But soft, I pray you. What, did Caesar swoon?
CASCA
He fell down in the marketplace, and foamed at mouth, and was speechless.
BRUTUS
‘Tis very like. He hath the falling sickness.
CASSIUS
No, Caesar hath it not. But you and I
And honest Casca, we have the falling sickness.
CASCA
I know not what you mean by that, but I am sure Caesar
fell down. If the tag-rag people did not clap him and
hiss him according as he pleased and displeased them, as
they use to do the players in the theatre, I am no true man.
BRUTUS
What said he when he came unto himself?
Word Meanings
Swoon: To faint.
Falling sickness: A historical term for epilepsy, a neurological disorder that causes seizures and loss of consciousness.
Tag-rag: A term used to describe the lowest class of people or the common mob, similar to rabble.
Clap and hiss: The actions of an audience to show approval (clapping) or disapproval (hissing).
Explanation of the above dialogues—Cassius asked Casca to hold on a moment and questioned if Caesar really fainted. Casca confirmed that Caesar had fallen down in the marketplace, foamed at the mouth, and was unable to speak. Brutus remarked that this was probably because Caesar had ‘the falling sickness’. Cassius then corrected Brutus, saying that Caesar wasn’t the one with the ‘falling sickness’, but rather Brutus, Cassius, and Casca were the ones who had it, implying that they were ‘falling’ in status and power while Caesar rose. Casca, however, stated that he didn’t understand what Cassius meant by that, but he was certain that Caesar had fallen. Casca added that if the common people didn’t clap and boo Caesar based on whether he pleased or displeased them, just like they do with actors, then he was not a truthful man. Brutus then asked what Caesar had said once he regained consciousness.
Play
CASCA
Marry, before he fell down, when he perceived the
common herd was glad he refused the crown, he plucked me
ope his doublet and offered them his throat to cut. An
I had been a man of any occupation, if I would not have
taken him at a word, I would I might go to hell among
the rogues. And so he fell. When he came to himself
again, he said, if he had done or said anything amiss,
he desired their worships to think it was his infirmity.
Three or four wenches where I stood cried, “Alas, good
soul!” and forgave him with all their hearts. But
there’s no heed to be taken of them. If Caesar had
stabbed their mothers they would have done no less.
Word Meanings
Marry: A mild exclamation, originally an oath to the Virgin Mary. It means something like indeed or by God.
Ope: An archaic or poetic form of open.
Doublet: A close-fitting jacket, a type of men’s clothing worn from the 14th to 17th centuries.
An: An archaic word for if.
Occupation: In this context, it means a trade, profession, or job, specifically someone who might take Caesar up on his offer.
Worships: Used here as a respectful term for their honors, referring to the people.
Infirmity: A physical or mental weakness or illness.
Wenches: An informal or archaic term for women, often used to refer to female servants or common women.
Explanation of the above dialogues—Casca said that before Caesar fell down, when he realized the common people were happy that he had refused the crown, Caesar opened his jacket and offered to let them cut his throat. Casca then remarked that if he had been a person of any profession, he would have taken Caesar’s offer seriously, or else he would wish to go to hell. Then Caesar fell down. When he regained consciousness, he said that if he had done or said anything wrong, he wished that the people would blame it on his illness. Casca added that three or four women nearby cried in concern that he is a good soul and forgave him completely, but Casca believed they were not worth paying attention to, as they would have forgiven him even if he had stabbed their mothers.
Play
BRUTUS
And after that he came thus sad away?
CASCA
Ay.
CASSIUS
Did Cicero say anything?
CASCA
Ay, he spoke Greek.
CASSIUS
To what effect?
CASCA
Nay, an I tell you that, I’ll ne’er look you i’ th‘
face again. But those that understood him smiled at one
another and shook their heads. But, for mine own part,
it was Greek to me. I could tell you more news too.
Murellus and Flavius, for pulling scarfs off Caesar’s
images, are put to silence. Fare you well. There was
more foolery yet, if I could remember it.
Word Meanings
To what effect?: What was the meaning or purpose of what he said?
An I tell you that: An archaic way of saying, If I were to tell you that.
I’ll ne’er look you i’ th’ face again: I’ll never be able to look at you again. Casca is joking that he would be embarrassed to admit he didn’t understand what was said.
It was Greek to me: A common idiom meaning something was completely incomprehensible.
Murellus and Flavius: Two tribunes (Roman officials) who appear in the first scene of the play.
Scarfs: Fabric decorations or ribbons.
Put to silence: A euphemism meaning they were killed or exiled.
Foolery: Silly, foolish behavior.
Explanation of the above dialogues—Brutus asked if Caesar came away sad after the incident. Casca confirmed that he did. Cassius then asked if Cicero had said anything. Casca responded that he did, and that he spoke in Greek. When Cassius asked what he said, Casca replied that if he told him, he would never be able to face him again, implying he didn’t understand it. He said that the people who understood him smiled at each other and shook their heads. Casca then admitted that, for his part, “it was Greek to me,” meaning he couldn’t understand it at all. He then offered more news, stating that Murellus and Flavius had been killed for pulling scarves off Caesar’s statues. He said goodbye, adding that there was more foolishness he would share if he could remember it.
Play
CASSIUS
Will you sup with me tonight, Casca?
CASCA
No, I am promised forth.
CASSIUS
Will you dine with me tomorrow?
CASCA
Ay, if I be alive and your mind hold and your dinner worth the eating.
CASSIUS
Good. I will expect you.
CASCA
Do so. Farewell both.
CASCA exits.
BRUTUS
What a blunt fellow is this grown to be!
He was quick mettle when he went to school.
CASSIUS
So is he now in execution
Of any bold or noble enterprise,
However he puts on this tardy form.
This rudeness is a sauce to his good wit,
Which gives men stomach to digest his words
With better appetite.
BRUTUS
And so it is. For this time I will leave you.
Tomorrow, if you please to speak with me,
I will come home to you. Or, if you will,
Come home to me, and I will wait for you.
CASSIUS
I will do so. Till then, think of the world.
BRUTUS exits.
Word Meanings
Sup: To have supper, the evening meal.
Promised forth: To be engaged or committed to a social event.
Blunt: Straightforward and direct to the point, often to the extent of being rude.
Mettle: A person’s ability to cope well with difficulties; spirit and resilience.
Quick mettle: A lively and spirited nature.
Execution: The carrying out of a plan, order, or course of action.
Tardy: Moving or acting slowly.
Fashion: A manner or way of doing something.
Wit: The capacity for inventive thought and quick humor; intelligence.
Stomach: The courage or inclination to do something.
Appetite: A strong desire or liking for something.
Explanation of the above dialogues—Cassius asked Casca if he would have supper with him that night. Casca replied that he was already promised to go somewhere else. Cassius then asked if he would dine with him the following day. Casca said yes, as long as he was still alive, Cassius was still of the same mind, and the meal was worth eating. Cassius agreed and said he would expect him. Casca then said goodbye to both of them and left. After Casca left, Brutus commented to Cassius on how blunt and rude Casca had become, noting that he had a much quicker, more spirited nature when they were in school. Cassius replied that Casca’s spirit was still quick when it came to carrying out any daring or noble plan, even though he appeared to be slow and hesitant on the outside. Cassius described Casca’s rudeness as a kind of spice that made his intelligence easier for people to appreciate. Brutus agreed and said that he would leave for now. He offered to either come to Cassius’s house the next day to talk or for Cassius to come to his. Cassius said he would come to Brutus’s house and advised him to think about the state of the world until then. Brutus then left.
Play
CASSIUS
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?
Caesar doth bear me hard, but he loves Brutus.
If I were Brutus now and he were Cassius,
He should not humor me. I will this night,
In several hands, in at his windows throw,
As if they came from several citizens,
Writings all tending to the great opinion
That Rome holds of his name, wherein obscurely
Caesar’s ambition shall be glancèd at.
And after this let Caesar seat him sure,
For we will shake him, or worse days endure.
CASSIUS exits.
Word Meanings
Mettle: A person’s character, spirit, and strength of an individual.
Wrought: Shaped or formed, often in a complex or detailed way.
Disposed: Inclined, or the way something is naturally set. In this context, it means Brutus’s natural inclination or character.
Meet: Fit, suitable, or proper.
Seduced: To be persuaded or lured into doing something, often something wrong.
Bear me hard: To hold a grudge against me or to dislike me intensely.
Humor me: To flatter or to give in to my desires.
Several hands: A few different handwritings.
Obscurely: In a way that is not clear or direct; subtly.
Glancèd at: Hinted at, mentioned briefly or indirectly.
Seat him sure: To establish himself firmly in power.
Shake him: To challenge his power or to overthrow him.
Endure: To suffer through something difficult or painful.
Explanation of the above dialogues—Cassius, speaking to himself after Brutus has left, says that Brutus is noble, but he sees that Brutus’s honorable nature can be molded and changed from its current state. He believes that it’s important for noble people to associate with those who are similar to them, because no one is so strong that they cannot be influenced. He then states that Caesar dislikes him but loves Brutus. Cassius reflects that if he were Brutus and Brutus were him, he wouldn’t let Brutus flatter or persuade him. He reveals his plan: that very night, he will write letters in different handwriting, making them appear to come from various citizens. He will then throw them through Brutus’s windows. These writings will praise Brutus’s reputation in Rome while subtly hinting at Caesar’s ambition. He concludes by saying that Caesar should try to hold onto his power securely, because they (the conspirators) will either overthrow him or suffer through worse times under his rule.
Conclusion
Act 1, Scene 2 of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar introduces other important characters and shows the main conflict among the characters of the play. The scene takes place in a public area in Rome, where Caesar and his supporters celebrate his victory over Pompey’s sons. A soothsayer warns Caesar to ‘beware the Ides of March’, but Caesar ignores this warning. The scene also includes a conversation between Cassius and Brutus, where Cassius starts manipulating Brutus. He plays on Brutus’s insecurities and plants doubts about Caesar’s ambition. Students can take help from this post to understand Act 1, Scene 2 of the play Julius Caesar by Shakespeare and also learn the difficult word meanings to get a better grasp. This post includes a summary of Julius Caesar, which will help students of ISCE class 9, to get a quick recap of the play.