Question

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

BRUTUS - No, not an oath: if not the face of men, The sufferance of our souls, the time’s abuse,- If these be motives weak, break off be times And every man hence to his idle bed;

1. The arguments given immediately after this extract show that Brutus takes up the task of the conspiracy as his duty instead of something of a compulsion. Illustrate. (Evaluation).
2. Who suggests that an oath should be taken? What does this show about the person’s foresightedness? (Recalling & Analysis)
3. Why does Brutus feel that swearing an oath is not necessary? (Analysis)
4. What is the next instance in which Brutus contradicts Cassius? In what way does this blunder committed by Brutus surface in the play? (Recalling & Analysis)
5. How does Cassius show his farsightedness regarding the killing of Mark Antony? How correct was Cassius in his assessment of Mark Antony? (Understanding & Analysis)

Answer 1

1. Brutus considers the sufferings of Rome, the abuse of the times and the need to protect the country sufficient reasons for action. He believes that true Romans will remain loyal to the cause without being forced by an oath.
2. Cassius suggests that an oath should be taken. This shows that he is practical and farsighted because he understands the danger of betrayal and wants to bind the conspirators together.
3. Brutus feels that their noble cause and their Roman honour are stronger than any oath. He believes that honest Romans do not need a formal promise to remain faithful.
4. Brutus next contradicts Cassius when he refuses to allow Cicero to join the conspiracy. His blunder appears when he later refuses to kill Mark Antony and underestimates Antony’s ability to turn the Roman people against the conspirators.
5. Cassius sees that Antony is greatly loved by Caesar and is a clever and dangerous man. His assessment proves correct because Antony’s funeral speech arouses the citizens against Brutus and the conspirators.