Question

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

CAESAR – Good friends, go in, and taste some wine with me; And we, like friends, will straightway go together. BRUTUS – [Aside] That every like is not the same, O Caesar, The heart of Brutus yearns to think upon!

1. Explain the term ‘aside’ with reference to the given extract. (Application)
2. Who are the ‘good friends’? (Recalling)
3. Why is it ironical to refer to them as ‘good friends’? (Analysis)
4. Why have these ‘good friends’ taken all the pains and courtesy to accompany Caesar to the Capitol? (Understanding & Analysis)
5. What does ‘yearns’ mean? What aspect of Brutus’ character is revealed in his statement? How does he contradict himself? (Application & Evaluation)

Answer 1

1. An ‘aside’ is a remark spoken by a character that is meant to be heard by the audience but not by the other characters on stage. Here, Brutus privately expresses his sorrow about deceiving Caesar.
2. The ‘good friends’ are Brutus, Cassius, Decius, Casca, Cinna, Metellus Cimber and Trebonius.
3. It is ironical to call them ‘good friends’ because they are actually conspirators planning Caesar’s murder. Caesar trusts them, but they are hiding their true intentions.
4. These ‘good friends’ accompany Caesar to the Capitol so that they can make sure he reaches there and their plan to assassinate him can be carried out successfully. Their apparent courtesy hides their conspiracy.
5. ‘Yearns’ means feels deep sorrow or pain. Brutus’ statement shows that he still loves Caesar and feels guilty about betraying him. He contradicts himself because, although he feels affection for Caesar, he is also taking part in the conspiracy against him.