Question

Brutus and Cassius - why each conspired to murder their ruler.

Answer 1

Brutus and Cassius both join the conspiracy against Caesar, but their motives are very different.

Brutus acts mainly from patriotism and idealism. He fears that Caesar’s growing power and ambition may turn him into a tyrant and destroy the freedom of Rome. Although he loves Caesar personally, he believes that killing him is necessary for the good of the country.

Cassius, on the other hand, is driven more by jealousy, resentment and fear of Caesar’s increasing authority. He cannot accept that Caesar, whom he considers no greater than himself, should rule over Rome.

Thus, Brutus conspires for what he believes is the welfare of Rome, while Cassius is motivated largely by personal dislike and political rivalry.