Question

Cassius - Jealousy, Conspiracy and his end.

Answer 1

Cassius is one of the chief conspirators against Caesar. He is jealous of Caesar’s growing power and cannot accept that Caesar should become greater than other Romans. He considers Caesar physically weak and believes that he does not deserve such authority.

Cassius therefore plans the conspiracy and cleverly persuades Brutus to join it. He knows that Brutus is respected by the people and that his presence will make the conspiracy appear honourable.

After Caesar’s death, however, Cassius gradually loses confidence. He becomes troubled by omens before the Battle of Philippi and fears defeat. During the battle, he wrongly believes that Titinius has been captured.

In despair, Cassius orders Pindarus to kill him with the same sword that had wounded Caesar. He dies saying, ‘Caesar, thou art revenged.’ Thus, Cassius’ jealousy begins the conspiracy, but misunderstanding, fear and defeat finally lead to his tragic end.