Scene 1
What happens to Flavius and Murellus?
They are silenced, never to be heard from again. Killed, Murdered
What is a soothsayer? Provide a definition
someone who claims to be able to predict the future
What is to happen on the Ides of March?
This is the day Caesar would be tragically slain.
Recently defeated by Caesar
Pompey
Explain the symbolic reference of the quote.
“These growing feathers plucked from Caesar’s wing, will make him fly an ordinary pitch “
(Shakespeare 1.1.72-73).
Caesar is being referred to as a predatory bird who soars above all others, it is necessary for his metaphorical feathers (ambition, power, arrogance, love from his followers) to be stripped away in order to bring him back down to viewing himself as a mortal man.
Describe the setting the play.
Rome, post war, the play opens during the Feast of Lupercal and celebration of Caesar's victory over Rome.
What does Caesar think of Cassius?
“He has a lean and hungry look; / He thinks too much. Such men are dangerous.”
What is the difference between how Cassius and Brutus view Caesar?
Cassius wants Caesar out of power.
Brutus loves Caesar but knows he has flaws; he considers his countrymen as he makes his decision.
Caesar's Wife
Calphurnia
Brutus - "Brutus had rather be a villager, than to refute himself a son of Rome" (Shakespeare 1.2.173-74).
Brutus would give up all of his titles and money before he would betray his country. Brutus is a true patriot of Rome.
Why does Shakespeare choose to open his play with humor?
The quick-wit quickly capture’s the attention of all of the audience members. Humor draws the audience in making them vested in what is going to happen next.
To whom does Brutus' loyalty lie?
The Republic of Rome - the citizens of Rome
What does Casca mean when he says: “For I believe they are portentous things / Unto the climate they point upon.”
He thinks the “unnatural” sights he has seen are signs of tragedy about to unfold in his country.
Loyal friend of Caesar who is thought of as impulsive and pleasure - seeking rather than being principled.
Antony
List examples of symbolism in Casca's monologues that establish his uneasy feelings and beliefs in prodigies (omens)?
Casca has a terrible feeling regarding recent events. He experiences a violent storm that he compares to an argument in heaven. Lightning is coming down, making fires where it strikes but doesn't burn someone who is directly hit. He also goes on to compare Caesar to a lion who is revered as the leader and still dependent on those beneath him for survival.
Why purpose does the cobbler's role serve in the production of the play?
Comedic relief
"..a mender of bad soles"
Why does Casca say Caesar is sad upon returning from the race?
He really wants the crown, but the crowd cheered when he refused it.
Why does Cassius want Brutus to join the conspiracy?
Brutus is well thought of by the people. If he supports the conspiracy, the conspirators would be in better favor with the people following the assassination
A Roman senator, he dismisses the power of omens as residing in those who believe in them.
Cicero
Cassius - “Except immortal Caesar.... we all are groaning underneath this age’s yoke (Shakespeare 1.2.62-63).
Caesar and his reach/power will never die due to him having defeated the roman people. Now we are dishonored with having to walk under this "yoke" letting the world see we have been taken captive.
Who was married to Caesar's daughter and how did she die?
Caesar's daughter was married to Pompey and died during childbirth.
According to Cassius, why is Caesar weak?
He cried complaining of a fever and could not fight.
He began to drown when swimming the river and needed Cassius help.
Whom does Cassius want to kill in addition to Caesar?
Antony
A talented General and long time acquaintance of Caesar who resents that the people have come to revere Caesar like a God.
Cassius
Cassius - "In several hands, in at his windows throw, as if they came from several citizens, writings....Caesar's ambition shall be glanced at and after let Caesar seat him sure" (Shakespeare 1.2. 311-314).
Cassius plans to plot fake letters from concerned citizens in Brutus' home. Caesar will then have to answer Brutus as to why these Romans do not trust him.