ACT 3 Julius Caesar Vocab

Prostrate

Lying face down in submission or humility. In the play, it's often used to describe someone showing deep respect or pleading for mercy.

Reverence

A feeling or gesture of deep respect and honor. Characters in Julius Caesar speak about reverence toward leaders and traditions.

Suitor

One who makes a formal request or plea, often used to refer to someone who petitions a ruler or person of authority.

Rite

A ceremonial act or tradition, often religious or symbolic. In the play, it can refer to funeral rites or sacred rituals.

Clamor

A loud and confused noise, often representing the outcry of the Roman people or political unrest. This term also captures the tumult of emotions during critical moments in Julius Caesar, reflecting the intensity of public opinion.

Inter

To bury a body, particularly in a ceremonial way. This word is relevant in scenes discussing burial and respect for the dead.

Testament

A will or legal declaration, but also used in the sense of proving loyalty or commitment.

Vanquish

To defeat completely, often in reference to political or military power struggles.

Conspirator

A person who secretly plots against someone, especially a ruler—central to the assassination plot against Caesar.

Firebrand

Someone who stirs up trouble or ignites rebellion. Though not commonly used in the play, it could describe a revolutionary figure like Cassius.

Enterprise

A bold or ambitious undertaking, often referring to political or military actions in the play.

Thrive

To succeed or prosper. Cassius fears their conspiracy may be discovered when another senator wishes their plan success.

Amiss

Wrong or out of order. Caesar questions what problem needs to be fixed by him and the Senate.

Ordinance

A decree or established rule. Caesar refers to laws that should not be easily overturned.

Repeal

To revoke or annul. Metellus Cimber pleads for the reversal of his brother’s exile.

Firmament

The sky or heavens. Caesar compares himself to a constant celestial body.

Enfranchise

To grant rights or freedom. The conspirators believe their actions will liberate Rome from tyranny.

Confound

To confuse or ruin. Caesar’s assassination disrupts his rule.

Abide

To endure or accept. Brutus urges Antony to patiently accept Caesar’s death.

Abridge

To shorten. Brutus suggests that they have cut short Caesar’s life and the fears that came with it.