Question

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

CASSIUS - Then, if we lose the battle, You are contented to be led in triumph Through the streets of Rome? BRUTUS - No, Cassius, no: Think not, thou noble Roman, That ever Brutus will go bound to Rome;

1. What has Brutus just said about Cato and the philosophy he applied to make Cassius utter these words? (Recalling & Understanding)
2. What Roman practice is referred to by Cassius as a result of losing a battle? (Recalling)
3. Explain “That ever Brutus will go bound to Rome?” How do Brutus' words show that he is truly honourable? (Analysis)
4. What was the significance of the Ides of March? What was its effect later in the play? (Evaluation)
5. Do Brutus and Cassius meet again? If not, why? (Recalling & Understanding)

Answer 1

1. Brutus has just said that he once blamed Cato for killing himself and believed that suicide was against his Stoic philosophy. He said that a person should patiently accept whatever fate brings. This makes Cassius ask whether Brutus would allow himself to be captured if they lost the battle.
2. Cassius refers to the Roman practice of parading defeated enemies as prisoners in a triumph through the streets of Rome.
3. ‘That ever Brutus will go bound to Rome’ means that Brutus will never allow himself to be taken back to Rome as a chained prisoner. His words show his honour and pride because he would rather die than suffer humiliation and loss of freedom.
4. The Ides of March was the day on which Caesar was assassinated. Its effect continues throughout the play because Caesar’s murder leads to political disorder, revenge, civil war and finally the downfall of Brutus and Cassius.
5. No, Brutus and Cassius do not meet again. Cassius dies during the battle after wrongly believing that Titinius has been captured by the enemy. Brutus later learns of his death and continues fighting.