Question

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

Brutus: Speak no more of her. Give me a bowl of wine. In this I bury all unkindness, Cassius [Drinks] Cassius: My heart is thirsty for that noble pledge. Fill, Lucius, till the wine o ‘erswell the cup, I cannot drink too much of Brutus’ love.

1. Who is referred to as ‘her’ in the first line of the extract? What had she done? Why did she take that step? (Recall & Understanding)
2. How was Brutus related to the above lady? Why did he wish not to discuss the matter related to her? What does this tell us about his nature? (Recall, Understanding & Analysis)
3. Who comes to meet Brutus and Cassius immediately after the quoted lines? For what does he put them to shame? (Recall)
4. Explain the term ‘Triumvirate’ in this context. Name the members of the Second Triumvirate. (Recall)
5. Brutus and Cassius had different ideas about how best to defeat the enemy. What were their strategies? Whose strategy was adopted? (Understanding)

Answer 1

1. ‘Her’ refers to Portia, Brutus’ wife. She had killed herself by swallowing hot coals. She took this step because she was deeply distressed by Brutus’ absence and the growing strength of Antony and Octavius.
2. Portia was Brutus’ wife. Brutus does not wish to discuss her death further because he wants to control his grief and focus on the serious political and military situation. This shows that he is stoic, self-controlled and able to suppress personal sorrow.
3. Messala and Titinius come to meet Brutus and Cassius. Messala puts them to shame by telling them that the Triumvirs have put many senators to death, including Cicero, while Brutus and Cassius have been quarrelling among themselves.
4. A ‘Triumvirate’ is a group of three men who share political power. The Second Triumvirate consisted of Mark Antony, Octavius Caesar and Lepidus.
5. Cassius wanted to remain at Sardis and make the enemy come to them, so that the enemy would become tired and their supplies would be reduced. Brutus wanted to march to Philippi and attack before the enemy could gain more supporters. Brutus’ strategy was finally adopted.