Question

Read the following excerpt and answer the questions briefly.

DECIUS BRUTUS: And know it now: the senate have concluded To give this day a crown to mighty Caesar. If you shall send them word you will not come, Their minds may change. CAESAR: How foolish do your fears seem now, Calpurnia! I am ashamed I did yield to them. Give me my robe, for I will go.

1. How does Decius Brutus persuade Caesar?     [1]
2. What did Calpurnia’s fears make her do?     [1]
3. What do the above lines tell you about Caesar’s character?     [1]
4. Why does Caesar say that he was ashamed of himself?     [1]

Answer 1

i. Decius Brutus persuades Caesar by telling him that the Senate has decided to give him the crown that day, suggesting that if Caesar does not go, the Senate might change its mind. This convinced Caesar, who agrees to go despite Calpurnia’s warning.

ii. Calpurnia’s fears made her urge Caesar to stay at home. She had a premonition and a nightmare about his death and she pleaded with him to take her fears seriously and avoid going to the Senate.

iii. These lines show how cocky Caesar was and how he often thought warnings and fears were silly. They also show how much he wants power and fame, since he quickly changes his mind when Brutus tells him that his departure could mean missing a chance for more glory.

iv. Caesar says he felt bad that he let Calpurnia’s fears affect his choice, even if it was only for a short time. He thinks that giving in to her worries is a sign of weakness and stupidity, so he quickly makes up his mind to go to the Senate anyway, ignoring her worries.