Act 1
Why are the common people considered to be fickle by Marullus and Flavius?
They loved Pompey, but were quick to celebrate Caesar after Pompey was overthrown
What ultimately convinces Caesar to leave for the senate building?
Decius’s manipulation, where he reinterprets Calphurnia’s dream, and warns that the people of Rome may see him weak if he doesn’t go.
How does Antony keep his promise to Brutus?
He does everything Brutus asks, but with different implications, turning honorable into an insult.
How does Portia die?
She commits suicide by swallowing hot coals.
What actually happened when Cassius thought Titinius died?
Titinius was being cheered for and given a laurel by the soldiers.
What opinion does Caesar have of the Soothsayer?
He ignores the warning, calling the Soothsayer a dream
Why do the conspirators decide not to kill Antony?
Brutus believes that to kill Antony would make their actions barbaric rather than justified and that it wasn’t necessary.
Who is supposed to be Caesar’s heir?
Octavius Caesar, since Caesar had no children, so the nephew is his heir.
Why is Brutus upset with Cassius?
Cassius has been taking bribes, which goes against Brutus’s justified reasoning for killing Caesar.
Why is Brutus given a soldier's burial?
Unlike the other conspirators, he acted nobly and with honor.
Who does Cassius ask to deliver the forged letters to Brutus?
Cinna, one of the fellow conspirators.
Why does Calphurnia believe that the signs in Rome are a warning of Caesar’s death?
Because the gods give signs before the deaths of important people such as Caesar, not common people.
Was Cassius correct in his suspicions of Mark Antony?
Yes, he was worried Antony would move the people, and Antony did.
Why did Antony lie about Caesar’s will?
To move the people and get their attention.
Does Julius Caesar’s ghost appear to be supporting a side?
Yes, Antony’s.
Why does the storm have multiple meanings?
It depends on who interprets it, their bias, and whether they use the omen of the storm to further their own goals.
Why is Portia so anxious for news from the Capitol?
She is nervous with her newfound knowledge of Brutus’s plan, and is trying to get information from the Capitol from Lucius without revealing Brutus’s secret.
Why doesn’t Caesar read the letter from Artemidorus?
He wants to put matters of state before a letter that pertains to him.
What does an itching palm refer to?
Someone who wants money and accepts bribes.
Why does Brutus think it is time for him to die?
He has seen Caesar’s ghost twice, back at their encampment, and the previous night.
Why is Cassius so keen to flatter Brutus?
He wants to have Brutus on the side of the conspirators to gain respect.
Who do the conspirators want on their side to gain respect?
Brutus and Cicero, but Brutus says that they shouldn’t work with Cicero
How many different people have the public supported passionately within the last three days?
Four: Pompey, Caesar, Brutus, and Antony. They might be a little fickle.
Why does Cassius offer to be killed with the dagger he used to stab Caesar?
To prove his loyalty to Brutus.
Is Antony a tragic hero?
No, because he has no humbling or downfall.