Question

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

BRUTUS - There is a tide in the affairs of men, Which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune; Omitted, all the voyage of their life Is bound in shallows and in miseries.

1. What was the suggestion given by Cassius that makes Brutus argue in this way? (Recalling)
2. Explain the lines:
   There is a tide in the affairs of men,
   Which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune. (Understanding)
3. How does Brutus compare the voyage of life to the voyage at sea? (Analysis)
4. Was Brutus justified in taking advantage of the ‘tide’ in his life? Give reasons for your answer. (Evaluation)
5. What does Brutus propose to do after the extract? Who does he call for and why? (Recalling & Understanding)

Answer 1

1. Cassius suggests that they should remain at Sardis and allow Antony and Octavius to come to them. In this way, the enemy would become tired and use up their supplies.
2. Brutus means that in every person’s life there comes a favourable opportunity, like a high tide at sea. If that opportunity is used at the right time, it can lead to success and good fortune.
3. Brutus compares life to a sea voyage. If a sailor catches the tide at the right moment, the ship moves forward successfully; if the tide is missed, the ship may remain stuck in shallow waters. In the same way, missed opportunities can lead to failure and misery.
4. Brutus is not fully justified because his decision to march to Philippi proves to be a serious military mistake. He believes he is taking advantage of the right opportunity, but Cassius’ more cautious plan would have kept their troops rested and forced the enemy to exhaust itself.
5. After the extract, Brutus proposes that they should march towards Philippi. Later, when he is left alone, he calls for Lucius because he wants him to bring his nightgown and stay near him while he rests.