Question

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

BRUTUS – As Caesar loved me, I weep for him, as he was fortunate, I rejoice at it; as he was valiant, I honour him, but as he was ambitious, I slew him.

1. What are the different feelings that Brutus had for Caesar? Why did he kill Caesar? (Understanding)
2. What does this extract reveal about Brutus? (Analysis)
3. Who does Brutus feel he has offended in his speech? What reply does he get? (Recalling)
4. How does Brutus justify that he has offended no one at the end of his speech? Who enters after his speech? (Recalling & Understanding)
5. How does Brutus introduce the person who enters? Why is he confident that the person means no harm to the conspirators? (Recalling & Understanding)

Answer 1

1. Brutus loved Caesar as a friend, rejoiced in his success and honoured his courage. However, he killed Caesar because he believed Caesar was ambitious and that his ambition threatened the freedom of Rome.
2. The extract reveals Brutus as sincere, patriotic and honourable. It also shows his inner conflict, because he loved Caesar personally but placed what he believed to be Rome’s welfare above friendship.
3. Brutus asks whether he has offended any Roman by killing Caesar. The citizens reply, ‘None, Brutus, none.’
4. Brutus says that he has done no more to Caesar than the citizens would do to him if he became ambitious. After his speech, Antony enters carrying Caesar’s body.
5. Brutus introduces Antony as a friend of Caesar who has been permitted to speak at the funeral. He is confident that Antony means no harm because Antony has agreed to the conditions laid down by the conspirators and has appeared friendly towards them.