Question

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

LUCILIUS - With courtesy and with respect enough But not with such familiar instances Nor with such free and friendly conference As he hath used of old

1. Who is being spoken about? Where does this scene take place? Who is Lucilius speaking about? (Recalling)
2. How does the listener explain and assess ‘a hot friend cooling’ after the extract?(Understanding)
3. To whom are ‘hollow men’ compared to? (Recalling)
4. Whose army approaches? What are their intentions? (Recalling & Understanding)
5. Compare the relationship between Brutus and Cassius to that of Antony and Octavius who appear to be more rational and logical? Give reasons for your answer. (Evaluation)

Answer 1

1. Cassius is being spoken about. The scene takes place in Brutus’ camp near Sardis. Lucilius is telling Brutus how Cassius received him.
2. Brutus explains that when a close friend begins to grow cold, he becomes more formal and less warm than before. He understands from Lucilius’ description that Cassius’ friendship has weakened.
3. ‘Hollow men’ are compared to horses that make a great show at first but fail when they are tested in difficult conditions.
4. Cassius’ army is approaching. Cassius intends to meet Brutus, but there is tension between them because of their disagreements and complaints against each other.
5. The relationship between Brutus and Cassius is strained by mistrust, anger and differences in judgement. In contrast, Antony and Octavius appear more practical and united in dealing with their enemies, even though they also disagree. They are able to put their differences aside and focus on the larger military threat.