Embedded Files
In groups, you will read the scenes in each act linked below. It’s BEST if your group READS or even better, ACTS OUT the scene on your own & try to emote - use the emotions, tone, and gestures that you sense in the character’s words. Use this doc to complete your work.
Note: it is on Google Classroom and if you use this version of the doc, you will need to paste / submit it on the proper Google Classroom assignment. If you use the one in Google Classroom, it will already be where it needs to be.
SOURCES TO ACCESS THE PLAY:
Textbook - pages 1079+
MyShakespeare.com/Julius Caesar (best! Create an account - it should be free!)
Sparknotes Side by Side "Translation":https://www.sparknotes.com/nofear/shakespeare/juliuscaesar/
All questions below are separated by ACT and SCENE on the ABOVE ACT links; they are reposted below here as well.
Act 1 Scene 1 - Identify & Reading Check Questions
Act 1 Scene 1 - Identify & Reading Check Questions
What do the tribunes ask the commoners?
What do the tribunes ask the commoners?
What two jobs do the commoners do?
What two jobs do the commoners do?
What are the commoners doing now?
What are the commoners doing now?
What should the commoners be doing (according to the tribunes)?
What should the commoners be doing (according to the tribunes)?
How can the tribunes tell the commoners are not working?
How can the tribunes tell the commoners are not working?
Who do the commoners pay tribute to?
Who do the commoners pay tribute to?
Why do the tribunes scold the commoners?
Why do the tribunes scold the commoners?
What do the tribunes do after making the commoners leave?
What do the tribunes do after making the commoners leave?
What are they trying to prevent?
What are they trying to prevent?
Academic / Socratic Seminars Discussion Questions:
Academic / Socratic Seminars Discussion Questions:
Directions: Answer 3 or more of the following questions, including ALL with a star (*) next to them. Then, develop 2 - 3 of your OWN Discussion Questions related to themes you identify. Lead the Academic Seminar with as much critical thinking and courtesy as you can.
Directions: Answer 3 or more of the following questions, including ALL with a star (*) next to them. Then, develop 2 - 3 of your OWN Discussion Questions related to themes you identify. Lead the Academic Seminar with as much critical thinking and courtesy as you can.
*1) Why does Shakespeare begin the play with this scene? What do the carpenter and the cobbler allude to? Why make that allusion? Are the common folk in Shakespeare's day fit to want a savior to rescue or protect them? From what? Who?
*1) Why does Shakespeare begin the play with this scene? What do the carpenter and the cobbler allude to? Why make that allusion? Are the common folk in Shakespeare's day fit to want a savior to rescue or protect them? From what? Who?
2) Select a key passage that stood out to you for whatever reason; explain to your group why you selected that passage and all the issues and literary devices you can see and/or historical connections that are present. You will speak for 1 minute, then have your group members respond for about 30 seconds each.
2) Select a key passage that stood out to you for whatever reason; explain to your group why you selected that passage and all the issues and literary devices you can see and/or historical connections that are present. You will speak for 1 minute, then have your group members respond for about 30 seconds each.
3) What is the strife between Pompey and Caesar? Who is to blame for the strife between Pompey and Caesar? Who is on whose side?
4) Why would the TRIBUNES (Flavius and Marullus) be on Pompey's side? Explain. Should the tribunes be scolding the commoners? Who are/were tribunes? What class were they from?
3) What is the strife between Pompey and Caesar? Who is to blame for the strife between Pompey and Caesar? Who is on whose side?
4) Why would the TRIBUNES (Flavius and Marullus) be on Pompey's side? Explain. Should the tribunes be scolding the commoners? Who are/were tribunes? What class were they from?
5) Why were the people so adoringly on Caesar's side?
5) Why were the people so adoringly on Caesar's side?
6) Should the people have cheered and asked for a holiday & decorated statues? Explain why or why not?
6) Should the people have cheered and asked for a holiday & decorated statues? Explain why or why not?
7) What is going on in the "senate"? What is ironical or hypocritical about their concern about "equality" and freedom/autonomy?
7) What is going on in the "senate"? What is ironical or hypocritical about their concern about "equality" and freedom/autonomy?
8) How would this relate to the political situation in England? Relate it to Queen Elizabeth (then James I in 1603) and England in 1599.
8) How would this relate to the political situation in England? Relate it to Queen Elizabeth (then James I in 1603) and England in 1599.
*Would the best king/queen be one that gave most concern to their people (commoners or merchants)?
*Would the best king/queen be one that gave most concern to their people (commoners or merchants)?
*Would overthrowing a queen for "equality" really be more beneficial for the people?
*Would overthrowing a queen for "equality" really be more beneficial for the people?
Act 1 Scene 2
Reading Check:
Act 1 Scene 2
Reading Check:
1) Who hands Julius the crown?
1) Who hands Julius the crown?
2) Who fears and loves Julius Caesar?
2) Who fears and loves Julius Caesar?
3) Who clearly envies Julius Caesar?
3) Who clearly envies Julius Caesar?
4) Who runs a race in the Colosseum?
4) Who runs a race in the Colosseum?
5) Who is to be touched during the race for superstition?
5) Who is to be touched during the race for superstition?
6) Who is Brutus at war with?
6) Who is Brutus at war with?
7) Cassius says Brutus and Caesar and himself are all what?
7) Cassius says Brutus and Caesar and himself are all what?
8) A Soothsayer was someone who ___________.
8) A Soothsayer was someone who ___________.
9) What does a Soothsayer tell Caesar to do?
9) What does a Soothsayer tell Caesar to do?
10) Why does Caesar most likely ignore the soothsayer?
10) Why does Caesar most likely ignore the soothsayer?
11) What did Cassius once do for Caesar?
11) What did Cassius once do for Caesar?
12) What could be evidence of Julius Caesar's fit-ness to be ruler (in this scene)?
12) What could be evidence of Julius Caesar's fit-ness to be ruler (in this scene)?
Discussion Questions:
Discussion Questions:
1) What qualities make for a good king? What superior qualities does Caesar have? Cite the passage that demonstrates this quality.
1) What qualities make for a good king? What superior qualities does Caesar have? Cite the passage that demonstrates this quality.
2) How do we cope with someone who is greater/better than we are (in anything: ex. include math, reading, science, baseball, basketball, soccer, tennis, brain power, looks, fashion sense, wealth, or any other skill)? How does Cassius cope with it? Can we see a cause that spurs us on to harming others?
2) How do we cope with someone who is greater/better than we are (in anything: ex. include math, reading, science, baseball, basketball, soccer, tennis, brain power, looks, fashion sense, wealth, or any other skill)? How does Cassius cope with it? Can we see a cause that spurs us on to harming others?
3) Identify 3-5 persuasive techniques used to persuade Brutus to Cassius' side. Cite the passage.
3) Identify 3-5 persuasive techniques used to persuade Brutus to Cassius' side. Cite the passage.
4) Are Cassius' arguments good evidence to argue Caesar should not be made king? Why or why not?
4) Are Cassius' arguments good evidence to argue Caesar should not be made king? Why or why not?
Act 1 Scene 3
Reading Check
Act 1 Scene 3
Reading Check
When does the scene take place?
When does the scene take place?
Casca thinks that the weather indicates what?
Casca thinks that the weather indicates what?
Cassius thinks that the weather indicates what?
Cassius thinks that the weather indicates what?
List all the bad omens (supernatural or abnormal events) that occur in the storm.
List all the bad omens (supernatural or abnormal events) that occur in the storm.
Cassius and the conspirators try to plan what at the end of this scene?
Cassius and the conspirators try to plan what at the end of this scene?
Discussion/Seminar Questions
Discussion/Seminar Questions
What does Cicero's statement about the storm teach/show us?
What does Cicero's statement about the storm teach/show us?
How do we interpret Cassius' character in this scene? What does he do and say? How does he feel? What should we learn from this?
How do we interpret Cassius' character in this scene? What does he do and say? How does he feel? What should we learn from this?
Act 2 Scene 1
Reading Check:
Act 2 Scene 1
Reading Check:
What is Brutus having trouble doing in this scene?
What is Brutus having trouble doing in this scene?
What kind of dramatic speech does Brutus give in the opening of this scene?
What kind of dramatic speech does Brutus give in the opening of this scene?
What choice does Brutus make about Julius Caesar in this scene?
What choice does Brutus make about Julius Caesar in this scene?
What can't Brutus find about Julius Caesar?
What can't Brutus find about Julius Caesar?
Which conspirators enter Brutus' home in this scene?
Which conspirators enter Brutus' home in this scene?
What logic does Portia use when her husband tells her he is ill?
What logic does Portia use when her husband tells her he is ill?
How does Portia argue she is a smart, strong woman?
How does Portia argue she is a smart, strong woman?
How does Brutus show his love and admiration for Portia (what words show this)?
How does Brutus show his love and admiration for Portia (what words show this)?
What interrupts Brutus from speaking with Portia before going to the capitol?
What interrupts Brutus from speaking with Portia before going to the capitol?
Discussion Questions:
Discussion Questions:
1) Why does Shakespeare name Brutus' servant Lucius? What allusions or other meanings/myths relate to it? What is ironic about the name and the scene? Why does Shakespeare do this?
1) Why does Shakespeare name Brutus' servant Lucius? What allusions or other meanings/myths relate to it? What is ironic about the name and the scene? Why does Shakespeare do this?
2) How does Brutus convince himself that he must kill his most cherished, beloved father figure? The man who he may even have known was, in fact, his biological father--Julius Caesar? Analyze the lines in his soliloquy at the start of the scene.
2) How does Brutus convince himself that he must kill his most cherished, beloved father figure? The man who he may even have known was, in fact, his biological father--Julius Caesar? Analyze the lines in his soliloquy at the start of the scene.
3) Does power always corrupt, and does absolute power always corrupt absolutely? Can we ever truly prevent some sort of power in a society? Should we kill a tyrant to prevent someone from becoming one before the fact? What does that mean for the scene?
3) Does power always corrupt, and does absolute power always corrupt absolutely? Can we ever truly prevent some sort of power in a society? Should we kill a tyrant to prevent someone from becoming one before the fact? What does that mean for the scene?
4) How and why were the women subjugated? What does the scene teach us about the danger of subjugating (devaluing, forcibly oppressing and suppressing their power) women? How & why do "civil" societies do this? In what ways is this still relevant today, in 2019 and beyond?
4) How and why were the women subjugated? What does the scene teach us about the danger of subjugating (devaluing, forcibly oppressing and suppressing their power) women? How & why do "civil" societies do this? In what ways is this still relevant today, in 2019 and beyond?
5) How do we prevent our ideals from ruining lives, including and especially our own? (Analyze Brutus & the conspirators' ideal [why must they morally end Caesar] and the contrasting reasons they should not murder Caesar)
5) How do we prevent our ideals from ruining lives, including and especially our own? (Analyze Brutus & the conspirators' ideal [why must they morally end Caesar] and the contrasting reasons they should not murder Caesar)
Act 2 Scene 2
Reading Check:
Act 2 Scene 2
Reading Check:
Why does Caesar decide not to go to the senate (before changing his mind again)?
Why does Caesar decide not to go to the senate (before changing his mind again)?
What does Calpurnia tell Decius to tell the senate as to why Caesar does not come to the Capitol?
What does Calpurnia tell Decius to tell the senate as to why Caesar does not come to the Capitol?
What/who does Caesar say is his reason for not coming to the Capitol?
What/who does Caesar say is his reason for not coming to the Capitol?
What does Caesar say he was born with (sort of part of a litter or twins)?
What does Caesar say he was born with (sort of part of a litter or twins)?
Who is the most terrible of the two cubs Caesar speaks of?
Who is the most terrible of the two cubs Caesar speaks of?
How does Decius convince Caesar to go to the Capitol?
How does Decius convince Caesar to go to the Capitol?
What does Caesar ask Brutus?
What does Caesar ask Brutus?
What happens to cowards, according to Caesar?
What happens to cowards, according to Caesar?
Discussion Questions:
Discussion Questions:
What do we learn about Caesar and Calpurnia's characters in this scene? What does it teach us about the marital relationship in Shakespeare's (and possibly somewhat Caesar's) time?
What do we learn about Caesar and Calpurnia's characters in this scene? What does it teach us about the marital relationship in Shakespeare's (and possibly somewhat Caesar's) time?
What are Calpurnia and Caesar superstitious about? What does it mean about them (Cal. & Caes.) that they give credence to superstitions and oracles?
What are Calpurnia and Caesar superstitious about? What does it mean about them (Cal. & Caes.) that they give credence to superstitions and oracles?
What does Calpurnia's dream mean? Why do people have dreams? Freud argues that dreams are disguised wish fulfillments; how is this dream a disguised wish of Calpurnia's? What does this say about her? Why might she "wish" her husband to die?
What does Calpurnia's dream mean? Why do people have dreams? Freud argues that dreams are disguised wish fulfillments; how is this dream a disguised wish of Calpurnia's? What does this say about her? Why might she "wish" her husband to die?
Is Caesar more noble and strong based upon his speech about the brave and cowards, or is he weaker? What does this line teach us about Caesar's character?
Is Caesar more noble and strong based upon his speech about the brave and cowards, or is he weaker? What does this line teach us about Caesar's character?
Why does Caesar argue with Calpurnia over the reason he does not intend to go to the Capitol? Why insist on the words "will not come" versus cannot come and that he is "sick"?
Why does Caesar argue with Calpurnia over the reason he does not intend to go to the Capitol? Why insist on the words "will not come" versus cannot come and that he is "sick"?
What kind of attack/argumentative strategy does Caesar use to shut Calpurnia down?
What kind of attack/argumentative strategy does Caesar use to shut Calpurnia down?
How does Decius convince Caesar to go to the Capitol and what does that show about his character?
How does Decius convince Caesar to go to the Capitol and what does that show about his character?
Act 2 Scene 3
Reading Check:
Act 2 Scene 3
Reading Check:
What does Artemidorus receive?
What does Artemidorus receive?
What does Artemidorus decide to do?
What does Artemidorus decide to do?
What is Artemidorus trying to do with this letter?
What is Artemidorus trying to do with this letter?
What does he (Art.) call the senators?
What does he (Art.) call the senators?
DQs:
DQs:
What rhetorical effect does this scene serve? (In other words, why is this scene put here and right after the previous scene?)
What rhetorical effect does this scene serve? (In other words, why is this scene put here and right after the previous scene?)
What dramatic irony does this cause? Does it make us side any more with Caesar?
What dramatic irony does this cause? Does it make us side any more with Caesar?
Are we to see Caesar as a hero, or at least as a good person (citizen, ruler, senator)?
Are we to see Caesar as a hero, or at least as a good person (citizen, ruler, senator)?
Quotes:
Quotes:
Explain what Artemidorus means by the lines:
Explain what Artemidorus means by the lines:
“There is but one mind in all these men, and it is bent against Caesar.”
“There is but one mind in all these men, and it is bent against Caesar.”
Analyze this metaphor:
Analyze this metaphor:
“My heart laments that virtue cannot live
“My heart laments that virtue cannot live
Out of the teeth of emulation.”
Out of the teeth of emulation.”
Act 2 Scene 4
Act 2 Scene 4
Reading Check Qs:
Reading Check Qs:
READING SHAKESPEAREAN DRAMA
READING SHAKESPEAREAN DRAMA
Fill in the blanks with the correct words from the word bank below. Then answer the Scene Discussion questions.
Fill in the blanks with the correct words from the word bank below. Then answer the Scene Discussion questions.
Word Bank: aid Senate House request do might mind Soothsayer grant
Word Bank: aid Senate House request do might mind Soothsayer grant
Caesar Overhear run Capitol Caesar friend harm chance
Caesar Overhear run Capitol Caesar friend harm chance
Portia asks Lucius to ____ to the __________ ____________.
Portia asks Lucius to ____ to the __________ ____________.
Lucius does not leave for a while because Portia does not tell him what to ___ at the Capitol.
Lucius does not leave for a while because Portia does not tell him what to ___ at the Capitol.
Portia says she has the _______ of a man, but the _________ of a woman.
Portia says she has the _______ of a man, but the _________ of a woman.
Portia probably worries about noises because she worries someone might ______________ her.
Portia probably worries about noises because she worries someone might ______________ her.
Portia says the noise comes from the ________________.
Portia says the noise comes from the ________________.
Portia speaks to the ________________ who has something to say to __________. He wants to ask
Portia speaks to the ________________ who has something to say to __________. He wants to ask
__________ to be a ____________ to himself.
__________ to be a ____________ to himself.
The Soothsayer knows no ________ that will come to Caesar, but much that he fears may
The Soothsayer knows no ________ that will come to Caesar, but much that he fears may
________________.
________________.
Portia asks that the heavens ______ Brutus in his endeavor. She then says Brutus has a ________ that Caesar won’t __________.
Portia asks that the heavens ______ Brutus in his endeavor. She then says Brutus has a ________ that Caesar won’t __________.
Discussion Questions:
Discussion Questions:
Why is Portia so anxious in this scene?
Why is Portia so anxious in this scene?
What does it mean to have the might of a woman? Is that a good thing or a bad thing? Why is Shakespeare including this (rhetorically, what is he saying)? Explain.
What does it mean to have the might of a woman? Is that a good thing or a bad thing? Why is Shakespeare including this (rhetorically, what is he saying)? Explain.
What does it mean to have the mind of a man? What is Portia's function for the author's purpose? Can you relate this to anyone in Elizabethan England, 1599? How might this shed light on Shakespeare's purpose?
What does it mean to have the mind of a man? What is Portia's function for the author's purpose? Can you relate this to anyone in Elizabethan England, 1599? How might this shed light on Shakespeare's purpose?
Does Portia know what the senators plan? How can you tell? Cite 2 or more quotes as evidence, then explain how they show she does or does not know.
Does Portia know what the senators plan? How can you tell? Cite 2 or more quotes as evidence, then explain how they show she does or does not know.
What could happen because Portia asks Lucius to do all this?
What could happen because Portia asks Lucius to do all this?
What does Portia's portrayal as a woman say or show us about Shakespeare's period & their views on women? Remember that the monarch at the time was Queen Elizabeth.
What does Portia's portrayal as a woman say or show us about Shakespeare's period & their views on women? Remember that the monarch at the time was Queen Elizabeth.
2.4 Quotes
2.4 Quotes
II.iv (3) What does Portia’s question, “Why dost thou stay?” show us about her character & knowledge of the plot?
II.iv (3) What does Portia’s question, “Why dost thou stay?” show us about her character & knowledge of the plot?
II.iv (6-8) Why does Portia say, “Oh constancy, be strong upon my side,
II.iv (6-8) Why does Portia say, “Oh constancy, be strong upon my side,
Set a huge mountain ‘tween my heart and tongue!
Set a huge mountain ‘tween my heart and tongue!
I have a man’s mind but a woman’s might” (II.iv.6-8)?
I have a man’s mind but a woman’s might” (II.iv.6-8)?
(2nd Period): What rhetorical device(s) are used in Artemidorus’ letter’s first 5 lines? What parallelism is used & why? What device is the concluding line that follows (the 5th or 6th of the letter)?
(2nd Period): What rhetorical device(s) are used in Artemidorus’ letter’s first 5 lines? What parallelism is used & why? What device is the concluding line that follows (the 5th or 6th of the letter)?
Act 3, Scene 1
Reading Check
Act 3, Scene 1
Reading Check
READING SHAKESPEAREAN DRAMA
READING SHAKESPEAREAN DRAMA
Fill in the blanks with the correct words from the word bank below. Then answer the Scene Discussion Questions.
Fill in the blanks with the correct words from the word bank below. Then answer the Scene Discussion Questions.
Word Bank: not gone letter Casca liberty freedom Soothsayer banishment Northern dogs Brutus et tu warning blood Capitol Caesar friend harm justify Publius tyranny avenge loose kill Antony appear bathe shakes hands mind fall
Word Bank: not gone letter Casca liberty freedom Soothsayer banishment Northern dogs Brutus et tu warning blood Capitol Caesar friend harm justify Publius tyranny avenge loose kill Antony appear bathe shakes hands mind fall
Act 3, Scene 1
Act 3, Scene 1
1) The Soothsayer replies to Caesar's statement, "The Ides of March have come," with, “But not ______.”
1) The Soothsayer replies to Caesar's statement, "The Ides of March have come," with, “But not ______.”
2) Caesar refuses to read Artemidorus' "petition" because he will _______ change his ______.
2) Caesar refuses to read Artemidorus' "petition" because he will _______ change his ______.
3) Artemidorus' petition, is really a ______ of _________ to _______________.
3) Artemidorus' petition, is really a ______ of _________ to _______________.
4) Metellus Cimber pleads that Caesar lift the _____________ of his brother ________ Cimber.
4) Metellus Cimber pleads that Caesar lift the _____________ of his brother ________ Cimber.
5) Caesar says he is as constant as the _________ star.
5) Caesar says he is as constant as the _________ star.
6) _______ stabs Caesar first.
6) _______ stabs Caesar first.
7) Caesar dies after ________’s stab.
7) Caesar dies after ________’s stab.
8) In Shakespeare's play, Caesar's famous last words were, “___ ___, Brute? Then ____ Caesar.”
8) In Shakespeare's play, Caesar's famous last words were, “___ ___, Brute? Then ____ Caesar.”
9) The conspirators make the plea for Publius Cimber to ________ their killing Caesar.
9) The conspirators make the plea for Publius Cimber to ________ their killing Caesar.
10) The conspirators cry out,”_______! ________! _______ is dead” just after killing Caesar.
10) The conspirators cry out,”_______! ________! _______ is dead” just after killing Caesar.
11) Brutus asks the conspirators to ______ their hands in ________.
11) Brutus asks the conspirators to ______ their hands in ________.
12) The conspirators next plan 1st, __________, 2nd, __________, and 3rd, _________________.
12) The conspirators next plan 1st, __________, 2nd, __________, and 3rd, _________________.
13) Marc _________ asks the senators to _______ him if they see him as enemy.
13) Marc _________ asks the senators to _______ him if they see him as enemy.
14) Antony tell the conspirators he will be a _______ to this act if they give him good reasons.
14) Antony tell the conspirators he will be a _______ to this act if they give him good reasons.
15) Antony ______ _____ with the conspirators which makes him _______ to be a traitor & offend Caesar.
15) Antony ______ _____ with the conspirators which makes him _______ to be a traitor & offend Caesar.
16) Antony promises Caesar he will _______ his death and let ______ the _____ of ______.
16) Antony promises Caesar he will _______ his death and let ______ the _____ of ______.
17) Identify and analyze all the rhetorical devices used in Antony's soliloquy to Caesar. List the examples in the space below. Rhetorical Devices in the scene (these and more may be in the scene):
17) Identify and analyze all the rhetorical devices used in Antony's soliloquy to Caesar. List the examples in the space below. Rhetorical Devices in the scene (these and more may be in the scene):
________________________________________________________________________(line ___) Analysis: __________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________(line ___) Analysis: __________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________(line ___) Analysis: __________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________(line ___) Analysis: __________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________(line ___) Analysis: __________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________(line ___) Analysis: __________________________________________________________________________
Act 3, Scene 1 - DISCUSSION QUESTIONS - SHAKESPEAREAN DRAMA
Act 3, Scene 1 - DISCUSSION QUESTIONS - SHAKESPEAREAN DRAMA
Use critical thinking, synthesis, and insights to answer each question below. Replace blanks with your insights.
Use critical thinking, synthesis, and insights to answer each question below. Replace blanks with your insights.
Is Caesar's "North Star" speech evidence of his heroism or tyranny (note: see how Brutus defines tyranny in Act 2, Scene 1)? Why should/shouldn't the king/leader change their position when people (senators, commoners, etc.) petition him?
Is Caesar's "North Star" speech evidence of his heroism or tyranny (note: see how Brutus defines tyranny in Act 2, Scene 1)? Why should/shouldn't the king/leader change their position when people (senators, commoners, etc.) petition him?
Caesar’s speech on the North Star is evidence of his _________ because ________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________.
Caesar’s speech on the North Star is evidence of his _________ because ________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________.
A king should / should not change their position or opinion when petitioned because _________________________________________ ______________________________________________________.
A king should / should not change their position or opinion when petitioned because _________________________________________ ______________________________________________________.
2) Analyze the diction of Caesar's final statement, "Et tu, Brute? Then fall, Caesar." Identify all the rhetoric you can contained there and what is its rhetorical purpose (think of its purpose on the audience)?
2) Analyze the diction of Caesar's final statement, "Et tu, Brute? Then fall, Caesar." Identify all the rhetoric you can contained there and what is its rhetorical purpose (think of its purpose on the audience)?
Caesar’s cry to Brutus includes rhetoric __________ in the word(s) _____, _____, and ______. It also includes __________ in the words ________ and __________.
Caesar’s cry to Brutus includes rhetoric __________ in the word(s) _____, _____, and ______. It also includes __________ in the words ________ and __________.
3) Why do Brutus and Cassius debate over the things in this (and other) scenes? What do we take from it?
3) Why do Brutus and Cassius debate over the things in this (and other) scenes? What do we take from it?
Brutus and Cassius debate over things such as ______________, _____________, and ______ because _________________________________ _________________________________________________________________.
Brutus and Cassius debate over things such as ______________, _____________, and ______ because _________________________________ _________________________________________________________________.
4) How effective is the rhetorical strategy of yelling out "Liberty! Freedom! Tyranny is dead!"? What rhetorical strategy is this?
4) How effective is the rhetorical strategy of yelling out "Liberty! Freedom! Tyranny is dead!"? What rhetorical strategy is this?
The rhetorical strategy ________ is used in the examples of _______, _______, and ________ is dead”.
The rhetorical strategy ________ is used in the examples of _______, _______, and ________ is dead”.
The characters do this because _________________________ __________________. It is effective/ineffective because _____ ____________________________________________________________.
The characters do this because _________________________ __________________. It is effective/ineffective because _____ ____________________________________________________________.
5) To what does this scene relate in Elizabethan history (1590s)? What did Shakespeare want his audience to think? What was the tension between the Queen and military commanders at the time?
5) To what does this scene relate in Elizabethan history (1590s)? What did Shakespeare want his audience to think? What was the tension between the Queen and military commanders at the time?
This scene in Rome 54 BCE relates to event(s) in Elizabethan history such as ____________, __________________ & _______________________________________. The Queen and military commanders ___________________________________________________. Shakespeare may be raising this scene to make the English audience_______________________________________________________________________________________________.
This scene in Rome 54 BCE relates to event(s) in Elizabethan history such as ____________, __________________ & _______________________________________. The Queen and military commanders ___________________________________________________. Shakespeare may be raising this scene to make the English audience_______________________________________________________________________________________________.
6) Why might women be excluded in this scene? What insights or lessons does this teach us today?
6) Why might women be excluded in this scene? What insights or lessons does this teach us today?
________ may have been excluded from this scene at the senate & Capitol because ____________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________.
________ may have been excluded from this scene at the senate & Capitol because ____________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________.
7) Why not kill Antony? What would Niccolo Machiavelli have said about this choice? __________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________.
7) Why not kill Antony? What would Niccolo Machiavelli have said about this choice? __________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________.
8) What is the purpose and effect of Antony's soliloquy on the audience? Think of the rhetorical triangle (ethos, pathos, logos: character (of the speaker), audience, text).
8) What is the purpose and effect of Antony's soliloquy on the audience? Think of the rhetorical triangle (ethos, pathos, logos: character (of the speaker), audience, text).
__________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________.
__________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________.
Act 3 Scene 2
Reading Check:
Act 3 Scene 2
Reading Check:
Read Act 3 Scene 2 - on Sparknotes - Side By Side Translation:
Read Act 3 Scene 2 - on Sparknotes - Side By Side Translation:
Answer the Fact Check Questions below; then take the 3.2 quiz (code = ettubrute):
Answer the Fact Check Questions below; then take the 3.2 quiz (code = ettubrute):
1) Brutus’ thesis is Caesar was ________________.
1) Brutus’ thesis is Caesar was ________________.
2) Which of these is not support Brutus uses?
2) Which of these is not support Brutus uses?
Caesar was ambitious
Caesar was ambitious
Brutus loves Rome more than Caesar
Brutus loves Rome more than Caesar
Brutus is honorable
Brutus is honorable
No one wants to be a willing bondsman
No one wants to be a willing bondsman
3) Brutus’ speech lacks ___________.
3) Brutus’ speech lacks ___________.
A thesis.
A thesis.
Supporting Arguments or Reasons
Supporting Arguments or Reasons
Examples
Examples
Passion
Passion
4-8) Identify examples of each of these rhetorical devices in Brutus’ speech:
4-8) Identify examples of each of these rhetorical devices in Brutus’ speech:
Parallelism
Parallelism
Ethos Appeal
Ethos Appeal
Analogy
Analogy
Pathos Appeal
Pathos Appeal
Appeal to Value(s)
Appeal to Value(s)
9) Who brings out Caesar’s body? When?
9) Who brings out Caesar’s body? When?
10) What does Antony obey of Brutus?
10) What does Antony obey of Brutus?
11-14) Identify examples of each of these rhetorical devices in Antony’s speech:
11-14) Identify examples of each of these rhetorical devices in Antony’s speech:
Supporting Details
Supporting Details
Repetition
Repetition
Counterfactual/Refutation
Counterfactual/Refutation
Anaphora
Anaphora
Discussion Questions:
Discussion Questions:
How much did Caesar give to every citizen?
How much did Caesar give to every citizen?
How does Antony’s theatricality help his speech?
How does Antony’s theatricality help his speech?
Who do the public agree with and why?
Who do the public agree with and why?
How does Act 3, Scene 2 apply to governmental power today? Use quote(s) from the scene and example(s) from current politics.
Act 3 Scene 3
Act 3 Scene 3
Reading Check Questions
Reading Check Questions
Who is killed by the mob?
Who is killed by the mob?
Why is he/she killed?
Why is he/she killed?
Of what group is the mob made up from: Patricians or Plebeians?
Of what group is the mob made up from: Patricians or Plebeians?
Discussion Questions:
Discussion Questions:
Identify all the ways the poet Cinna's name figuratively plays upon. What can we argue based upon this circumstance?
Identify all the ways the poet Cinna's name figuratively plays upon. What can we argue based upon this circumstance?
Why is this scene placed in the play by Shakespeare?
Why is this scene placed in the play by Shakespeare?
What does the scene reveal to us about Shakespeare's view of the Plebeians?
What does the scene reveal to us about Shakespeare's view of the Plebeians?
Act 4 Scene 1
Act 4 Scene 1
Reading CHECK:
Reading CHECK:
1) Who are the 3 men of the 2nd Triumvirate?
1) Who are the 3 men of the 2nd Triumvirate?
2) Who does Octavius say must be on the "hit" list?
2) Who does Octavius say must be on the "hit" list?
3) Who does Lepidus say must be on the "hit" list?
3) Who does Lepidus say must be on the "hit" list?
4) Antony damns Publius with what? (what word does he use to describe the killing?)
4) Antony damns Publius with what? (what word does he use to describe the killing?)
5) What does the Triumvirate hide from the public?
5) What does the Triumvirate hide from the public?
6) Antony compares Lepidus to a what?
6) Antony compares Lepidus to a what?
7) What does Antony desire about Lepidus?
7) What does Antony desire about Lepidus?
8)T/F: Octavius agrees to Antony's desire about Lepidus.
8)T/F: Octavius agrees to Antony's desire about Lepidus.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
What signs already reveal that Rome is already becoming an empire and is no longer a republic? Who acts like a tyrant/emperor?
What signs already reveal that Rome is already becoming an empire and is no longer a republic? Who acts like a tyrant/emperor?
Why is Antony so opposed to Lepidus? Analyze his reasons more deeply.
Why is Antony so opposed to Lepidus? Analyze his reasons more deeply.
Analyze Antony's character. Give examples & interpret his character.
Analyze Antony's character. Give examples & interpret his character.
Analyze Octavius's character. Give examples & interpret his character.
Analyze Octavius's character. Give examples & interpret his character.
Act 4 Scene 2
Act 4 Scene 2
Reading CHECK:
Reading CHECK:
1) Who is Brutus' servant in this scene?
1) Who is Brutus' servant in this scene?
2) Who is Cassius' servant in this scene?
2) Who is Cassius' servant in this scene?
3) How has Cassius treated Brutus recently (according to Brutus in this scene)?
3) How has Cassius treated Brutus recently (according to Brutus in this scene)?
4) When Cassius arrives, how does he feel toward Brutus?
4) When Cassius arrives, how does he feel toward Brutus?
5) Why do Brutus and Cassius agree to go into their tent?
5) Why do Brutus and Cassius agree to go into their tent?
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
What do the conflicts between Brutus and Cassius show us about 1) them & 2) politics? Be very precise about the differences and nuances between Cassius and Brutus. Analyze their character.
What do the conflicts between Brutus and Cassius show us about 1) them & 2) politics? Be very precise about the differences and nuances between Cassius and Brutus. Analyze their character.
What are (all) the possible implications (implied/inferred reasons) of Cassius' action to deny Brutus money? (Think through all the possibilities you can & list them and explain their rationale). Is Brutus level headed or is he overcome with a passion?
What are (all) the possible implications (implied/inferred reasons) of Cassius' action to deny Brutus money? (Think through all the possibilities you can & list them and explain their rationale). Is Brutus level headed or is he overcome with a passion?
Act 4 Scene 3
Reading Check:
Act 4 Scene 3
Reading Check:
What does Cassius want to do to Brutus at the start?
What does Cassius want to do to Brutus at the start?
How does Cassius attempt to persuade Brutus to back down?
How does Cassius attempt to persuade Brutus to back down?
Why is Brutus mad at Cassius? What crimes has he committed?
Why is Brutus mad at Cassius? What crimes has he committed?
What does Cassius threaten after Brutus scolds him to pieces?
What does Cassius threaten after Brutus scolds him to pieces?
Do the men/soldiers hear the two men arguing? What is evidence?
Do the men/soldiers hear the two men arguing? What is evidence?
Who do we learn has died?
Who do we learn has died?
How did he/she die?
How did he/she die?
Where do Marc Antony and Octavius plan to meet Brutus' & Cassius' armies?
Where do Marc Antony and Octavius plan to meet Brutus' & Cassius' armies?
How many senators have been killed by Antony & Octavius according to Brutus?
How many senators have been killed by Antony & Octavius according to Brutus?
Which senator is specifically named as having been killed?
Which senator is specifically named as having been killed?
What do Brutus and Cassius argue about in terms of the battle plans? Who wins (based on what they decide)?
What do Brutus and Cassius argue about in terms of the battle plans? Who wins (based on what they decide)?
Who visits Brutus at night?
Who visits Brutus at night?
What does the visitor tell Brutus?
What does the visitor tell Brutus?
What does Lucius dream about?
What does Lucius dream about?
Why does Brutus ask the others in his tent about their cries?
Why does Brutus ask the others in his tent about their cries?
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
What is Brutus attacking Cassius for? Analyze - is he correct and/or moral, or otherwise?
What is Brutus attacking Cassius for? Analyze - is he correct and/or moral, or otherwise?
Further develop the ideas from scene 2: What do the conflicts between Brutus and Cassius here in scene 3 show us about them & about politics? Be very precise about the differences and nuances between Cassius and Brutus. Analyze their characters.
Further develop the ideas from scene 2: What do the conflicts between Brutus and Cassius here in scene 3 show us about them & about politics? Be very precise about the differences and nuances between Cassius and Brutus. Analyze their characters.
What is the significance of the ghost? Why does the ghost appear and what does it mean/symbolize? How should we interpret its words?
What is the significance of the ghost? Why does the ghost appear and what does it mean/symbolize? How should we interpret its words?
What threats to justice are represented in this scene? Who commits them? What do we need to learn from this?
What threats to justice are represented in this scene? Who commits them? What do we need to learn from this?
Is it enough to kill tyrants? Where does evil or tyranny or injustice reside?
Is it enough to kill tyrants? Where does evil or tyranny or injustice reside?
Act 5 Scene 1
Act 5 Scene 1
Reading Check
Reading Check
Which side will Octavius take on the battlefield?
Which side will Octavius take on the battlefield?
Who decides which side Octavius takes in the battle? Why?
Who decides which side Octavius takes in the battle? Why?
What sign does Cassius see at Sardis & what is there now instead?
What sign does Cassius see at Sardis & what is there now instead?
What do Brutus and Cassius agree they will do if they lose the battle?
What do Brutus and Cassius agree they will do if they lose the battle?
What philosophy does Brutus follow and how does he break his own belief/value?
What philosophy does Brutus follow and how does he break his own belief/value?
What does Cassius say about fate? How does he change his position?
What does Cassius say about fate? How does he change his position?
Discussion Questions:
Discussion Questions:
What character trait (tragic flaw?) would lead Brutus to overlook his philosophical objection to suicide if he were captured?
What character trait (tragic flaw?) would lead Brutus to overlook his philosophical objection to suicide if he were captured?
Act 5 Scene 2
Act 5 Scene 2
Reading Check Questions:
Reading Check Questions:
What does Brutus passionately wish for of Messala?
What does Brutus passionately wish for of Messala?
Discussion Questions:
Discussion Questions:
What is so important about Messala riding? Why is Brutus so concerned?
What is so important about Messala riding? Why is Brutus so concerned?
Act 5 Scene 3
Reading Check:
Act 5 Scene 3
Reading Check:
What does Cassius see at his "tents"?
What does Cassius see at his "tents"?
Who does Cassius find is at his tents?
Who does Cassius find is at his tents?
How does he know this?
How does he know this?
Who tells Cassius what happens to the rider Titinius?
Who tells Cassius what happens to the rider Titinius?
Who is really at his tents?
Who is really at his tents?
What does Cassius ask of his servant?
What does Cassius ask of his servant?
Who stabs Cassius?
Who stabs Cassius?
What immediately results from Cassius' death? What does it do for his servant?
What immediately results from Cassius' death? What does it do for his servant?
What happens to Titinius?
What happens to Titinius?
Discussion Questions:
Discussion Questions:
What do we learn about Cassius' character from his death? What moral can we learn?
What do we learn about Cassius' character from his death? What moral can we learn?
How can/does subjectivity shape reading? What does this scene teach us about reading (Cassius reading the battlefield)?
How can/does subjectivity shape reading? What does this scene teach us about reading (Cassius reading the battlefield)?
Act 5 Scene 4
Act 5 Scene 4
Reading Check:
Reading Check:
Who fights alongside Brutus for freedom?
Who fights alongside Brutus for freedom?
What happens to Cato?
What happens to Cato?
Who does Lucilius pretend to be?
Who does Lucilius pretend to be?
Why do the soldiers not kill Lucilius?
Why do the soldiers not kill Lucilius?
What does Antony tell the soldiers to do with Lucilius?
What does Antony tell the soldiers to do with Lucilius?
Discussion Questions:
Discussion Questions:
Why does Lucilius pretend to be someone else?
Why does Lucilius pretend to be someone else?
What do Brutus and Cato fight for?
What do Brutus and Cato fight for?
What dies with Brutus and Cato, and is it a good thing?
What dies with Brutus and Cato, and is it a good thing?
Act 5 Scene 5
Act 5 Scene 5
Reading Check:
Reading Check:
What is true about Brutus' army already at the start of the scene?
What is true about Brutus' army already at the start of the scene?
What does Brutus tell Clitus about slaying?
What does Brutus tell Clitus about slaying?
How does Brutus know his "hour has come" (V.V.20)?
How does Brutus know his "hour has come" (V.V.20)?
What line indicates Brutus finds it more noble for him and the other soldiers to kill themselves?
What line indicates Brutus finds it more noble for him and the other soldiers to kill themselves?
What office does Brutus want Volumnius to take?
What office does Brutus want Volumnius to take?
What does Brutus profess about the Romans?
What does Brutus profess about the Romans?
Who holds Brutus' sword when he runs upon it?
Who holds Brutus' sword when he runs upon it?
What does Brutus take from all his enemies?
What does Brutus take from all his enemies?
Discussion Questions:
Discussion Questions:
Analyze Character: Why does Brutus really fall upon his own sword? (Hint: are there things he does not know about himself?)
Analyze Character: Why does Brutus really fall upon his own sword? (Hint: are there things he does not know about himself?)
How is Antony's speech praising Brutus ironical?
How is Antony's speech praising Brutus ironical?
What does Octavius plan to use Brutus for? How?
What does Octavius plan to use Brutus for? How?
How is Octavius' speech ironical?
How is Octavius' speech ironical?
How is the ending tragic? What tragedies occur?
How is the ending tragic? What tragedies occur?
What is the theme of the play?
What is the theme of the play?
Does Shakespeare prefer republics? What evidence can you find for or against this?
Does Shakespeare prefer republics? What evidence can you find for or against this?
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