Question

Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:

ANTONY - This was the noblest Roman of them all: All the conspirators, save only he, Did what they did on envy of great Caesar;

1. What do you learn about Brutus' death before this extract? Name the people who talk about it? (Recalling)
2. What does Antony say about the person at the end of his speech? What were the elements ‘so mix’d in him’? Refer to the Elizabethan way of thinking. (Understanding)
3. What does Octavius order about this “noble Roman”? Did the person deserve the honour? Give reasons for your answer. (Recalling & Analysis)
4. What idea of disloyalty is highlighted in the play? (Understanding)
5. What kind of burial did the person get? What does this show about the person's status in society? (Understanding & Analysis)
6. Do you approve the ending of the play? Give reasons to substantiate your answer. (Analysis & Evaluation)

Answer 1

1. Before this extract, Strato explains that Brutus died by running upon his own sword while Strato held it. Antony, Octavius, Messala and Lucilius are present and speak about Brutus’ death.
2. Antony says that Brutus was ‘the noblest Roman of them all’. He adds that nature had so perfectly combined the elements in him that the world could say, ‘This was a man!’ According to the Elizabethan belief, a person’s nature was formed by the four elements earth, water, air and fire and in Brutus these were believed to be well balanced.
3. Octavius orders that Brutus should receive an honourable burial and that his body should rest in his own tent for the night. Brutus deserves this honour because, unlike the other conspirators, he acted mainly from what he believed was concern for Rome rather than from personal jealousy.
4. The play highlights disloyalty through the betrayal of Caesar by men whom he trusted, especially Brutus. It also shows how political ambition and rivalry can break friendships and loyalties.
5. Brutus receives an honourable military burial with full respect. This shows that he was regarded as a noble, important and highly respected Roman even by his enemies.
6. Yes, the ending is suitable because it brings the tragic conflict to a close and shows the consequences of Caesar’s assassination. Brutus dies with dignity, while Antony and Octavius acknowledge his honour, giving the play a serious and fitting conclusion.