Julius Caesar
What does the Soothsayer famously say to Caesar?
“Beware the Ides of March”
Which two characters are upset with the Roman citizens' support of Caesar at the very beginning of the play, and who do they ultimately support?
Flavius and Marullus. They support Pompey (who Caesar just defeated).
What are Caesar's final words, and why are these significant?
"Et tu, Brute? Then fall, Caesar." It shows his shock that his friend would go against him and acceptance at his fate.
How many times does Antony offer (and Caesar refuse) the crown in Act I?
Thrice (three times)
Who does Caesar describe to Antony as having a "lean and hungry look" and he basically doesn't trust because he thinks too much?
Cassius
What does Calphurnia see in her dream? Why is she worried?
Blood spurting from holes Caesar's statue and men bathing from his blood. She worries it is an omen about his death.
Why do the conspirators all kneel before Caesar to beg for Publius Cimber’s reinstatement from exile?
To get physically close to Caesar in order to stab him. And possibly as a final sign of respect, too.
Which Roman ruler does Caesar defeat at the beginning of the play?
Pompey
What plan does Cassius reveal in his soliloquy in Act 1? (What is his plan to get Brutus involved in the conspiracy and convince him to rebel against Caesar?
He will write letters to Brutus in different types of handwriting pretending to be people of Rome that want Brutus to go against Caesar.
How does Decius convince Caesar to go to the senate, in spite of Calphurnia's omens and warnings?
He says the dream is actually a positive one, and that the people will second guess giving him the crown if he doesn't show up.
Who is the first to stab Caesar? Who is the last to stab him?
Casca first, Brutus last.
Name two of the warnings Caesar was given before his assassination.
- Soothsayer (two times): "Beware the Ideas of March" and on his way to the Senate.
- Calphurnia's dream/omens.
- Artimedorous' attempt to give him a letter detailing the plans of the Conspirators.
What is Brutus' inner conflict about joining the Conspiracy?
He loves Caesar but fears he will be a tyrant.
Who is Brutus' servant? What errand does Portia send him on at the end of Act 2?
Lucius. She tells him to go to the senate and check on Brutus and Caesar.
What happens to Cinna the poet as he travels to Caesar's funeral?
He is killed by the rioting citizens because they initially thought he was Cinna the conspirator and even after they realize who he is, they still kill him out of anger.
What are the names of the three men (triumvirate) who are fighting against Cassius and Brutus?
Octavius, Antony, and Lepidus
What physical illness does Caesar suffer from, and what was it referred to as in ancient times?
Epilepsy, called "The falling sickness" in ancient times.
Cassius recounts the time Caesar dared him to swim in the Tiber River. What happens?
Caesar began to drown and Cassius had to rescue him.
Why is Portia so annoyed with Brutus in Act 2 Scene 1? What is his response?
She is frustrated that he won't tell her what is bothering him or explain why he has been acting so weird. He basically brushes her off and tells her not to worry and he will fill her in later.
What two things did Caesar leave for the citizens of Rome in his Will?
75 drachmas (silver coins) each, and access to all of his private gardens and parks to enjoy for their recreation.
Who gains power of Rome at the end of the play?
Octavius