Question

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

BRUTUS - What means this shouting? I do fear the people Choose Caesar for their king. CASSIUS - Ay, do you fear it? Then must I think you would not have it so.

1. When Brutus says ‘I do fear, the people chose Caesar for their king’, it reveals Brutus’ thoughts that Cassius exploits later. How? (Evaluation)
2. Why are Brutus and Cassius not there at the place where the festivities are going on? (Understanding)
3. Why is Brutus not in favour of Caesar becoming king? (Understanding & Analysis)
4. What two weaknesses of Caesar does Cassius highlight to Brutus? (Understanding)
5. How does Cassius compare the names of ‘Brutus’ and ‘Cassius’ to that of the name of ‘Caesar’? (Analysis)

Answer 1

1. Brutus’ fear shows that he is already uneasy about Caesar becoming king. Cassius later exploits this concern by suggesting that Caesar is no better than other Romans and that his growing power could threaten Rome’s freedom.
2. Brutus and Cassius stay away from the festivities because Brutus is not interested in the games. He is troubled by personal thoughts, and Cassius takes the opportunity to speak privately with him.
3. Brutus is not in favour of Caesar becoming king because he fears that absolute power may change Caesar and endanger the liberty of Rome. His main concern is the welfare of the Roman Republic.
4. Cassius highlights two weaknesses of Caesar:
   1. Caesar once nearly drowned in the river Tiber and had to be rescued.
   2. Caesar became weak and feverish in Spain and cried out for water like a sick person.
5.  Cassius compares the names ‘Brutus’ and ‘Caesar’ and argues that ‘Brutus’ is just as worthy a name as ‘Caesar’. He questions why Caesar’s name should be treated as greater when Brutus is equally noble and capable.