Act IV Focus
Act IV (or you can choose to read the act in the text book) opens to Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus together discussing plans to engage in civil war and to destroy the men whom killed Caesar. They also plan to eradicate any remnants of the conspirators COMPLETELY…even if that means putting hundreds of senators to death. We see Antony in a different light than the playboy that we originally thought him as. Antony is stepping up to do right by his friend but we see a struggle for power between him and Octavius. Furthermore, another struggle is taking place in the play at this time between Brutus and Cassius. There are elements of distrust and dishonor in the camp of the conspirators and they have to pay special attention to avoid corruption. After all, they did just assassinate Caesar because they judged him corrupt. That would be ironic.
All of our characters are having to face the consequences of the events that occurred on the ides of March. One side is fueled by honor; the other, fueled by justice. We see more supernatural elements in this act. Matter of fact, it’s one of Shakespeare’s classic use of ghosts. Pay attention to how the ghost introduces itself. What might this be saying about Brutus’ feelings at this time?
Here is something to think about. Throughout this play, literature, such as letters and poetry, has been quite prevalent. Think of all the messages our characters have received and/or ignored already. As you read, see if you can identify any other ways that literature continues to affect the characters and plot.
Arrange with your teacher and the rest of the class a time to get together and discuss the following prompt:
A tragic hero is a literary character who makes a judgment error that inevitably leads to his/her own destruction. An anti-hero is a protagonist who lacks common hero qualities. There are examples of both roles within the characters in this play
Who do you think is a tragic hero in the play,The Tragedy of Julius Caesar? Who is an anti-hero? Why?
Open a new Google Doc and write your answer in full. Please back up your answer with evidence from the text. Submit through your English 10B Slate classroom.
Act V Focus
“But this same day must end that work the ides of March begun” (V.i.123-124). The battle has come at last. Swords will clash, fates will be decided, and justice will be served. The four leaders make one last attempt to talk things out but it doesn’t go well. Antony is quick to remind Brutus that it was his words that sent him on this deadly path in the first place. Antony also mentions that his words don’t mean much when they are paired with “bad strokes” referring to how Brutus cried "Long live! Hail Caesar!" and then stabbed him in the heart. Too soon Brutus?
Yet again, we witness some portentous omens of what’s to come. Though in this case, they are not in team Brussius’ (Brutus + Cassius) favor. The two even say goodbye to one another—not a sign of confidence. Keep in mind that Brutus stands by his actions even now. He had nothing but noble intentions in killing Caesar and followed through with the assassination for the good of Rome. Therefore, he declares that he will not be dragged through Rome in chains. Basically, Brutus will not be taken alive. How’s that for resolve?
Remember in Act IV when the ghost of Caesar told Brutus that he will see him again on the battlefield? Ya, so does Brutus. He begins to see how misunderstandings and ill-timed attacks are leading to his defeat on the battlefield. Brutus gives the ghost credit. It seems as though Caesar is just as mighty in death as he was in life.
Meanwhile, the power has shifted into the corner of Young Octavius. Notice how Antony has resumed his second in command status (though held with more honor and responsibility) and has even begun to address Octavius as Caesar. Hmmmmm, interesting. Rising to power through military prowess? The olive doesn’t fall far from the branch.
Read on (or you can choose to read the act in the textbook) to behold the fates of these gentlemen.
You will write a eulogy of anyone of your choosing. This can be a famous celebrity, a fictional or nonfictional person, a pet, etc. The eulogy should be a review of the favorable details and an impressive recounting of your individual's worth in life.
Congratulations! They say that your actions reflect your values. Well, getting to this point shows that you possess resolve and tenacity. You should be proud. Move on to Performance Task 1. Once completed, start Module 3.