Question

1. “Remember Caesar is a light-hearted comedy”. Working in a group, discuss the statement. Identify various aspects of the play that contribute to the humour

1. title
2. plot
3. characterisation

2. After the discussion, write a paragraph of 150-200 words bringing out the humour in the play.

Answer 1

1. Discussion: Humour in Remember Caesar

1. title: The title “Remember Caesar” is humorous because Lord Weston forgets that he himself had written these words as a reminder about his appointment with Mr. Caesar, the gardener. Instead, he connects the words with Julius Caesar and thinks that someone is planning to assassinate him.
2. plot: The misunderstanding creates a series of comic situations. Lord Weston takes elaborate precautions against an imaginary assassin, orders the doors to be locked and even mistakes a parcel containing his new velvet cloak for an infernal machine.
3. characterisation: Lord Weston’s absent-mindedness, fear and seriousness make him a comic character. Roger obediently follows his unusual orders, while Lady Weston remains calm and makes sarcastic remarks about his fears. The contrast between their reactions adds to the humour.

2. Paragraph: Humour in Remember Caesar

Remember Caesar is a light-hearted comedy full of humour and irony. The title itself creates humour because Lord Weston connects the words “Remember Caesar” with Julius Caesar and his assassination, although he has actually written them himself as a reminder about his appointment with Mr. Caesar, the gardener. The plot becomes increasingly comic as Weston becomes convinced that his life is in danger. He orders Roger to lock the doors and take precautions against the supposed assassin. His serious behaviour contrasts sharply with the calm and practical attitude of his wife, Lady Weston, whose sarcastic remarks add to the humour. One amusing incident occurs when Weston mistakes a parcel containing his new velvet cloak for an infernal machine and tries to prevent it from exploding. Roger also contributes to the comedy by obediently carrying out his master's strange orders. Finally, when Mr. Caesar arrives, the whole misunderstanding is cleared up. Thus, the title, plot, irony, absent-mindedness of Lord Weston and the contrasting characters make the play highly entertaining.