Rome Celebrates Caesar's Victory

These flashcards cover key themes, characters, and concepts from the play related to Julius Caesar's story.

What are the people of Rome celebrating in the streets?

They are celebrating Julius Caesar's return from defeating the forces of Pompey.

What warning does the Soothsayer give to Caesar?

The Soothsayer warns Caesar to beware the ides of March.

What event is going to take place the day after Scene 3 according to Casca?

The Senate is going to establish Caesar as king or emperor.

What two things does Casca see Caesar do during the race?

Casca sees Caesar refuse the crown three times and have a fit during which he foams at the mouth.

Who do Cassius, Casca, and Cinna want to help them with their plot?

They want Brutus to help them with their plot.

Why are the tribunes Flavius and Marullus angry with the commoners?

They are opposed to Caesar, while the commoners celebrate his victory over Pompey.

How does Caesar respond to the Soothsayer's warning?

Caesar does not take it seriously.

What happened at the games when Mark Antony offered Caesar the crown?

Caesar refused the crown offered three times by Antony, but did so reluctantly.

Why does Cassius send letters to Brutus that appear to be written by others?

Cassius wants Brutus to think that many people oppose Caesar, hoping he will lead the opposition.

What characters speak in blank verse at the beginning of the play?

Flavius and Marullus speak in blank verse.

How does the weather in Scene 3 create suspense?

The rain and thunder create a stormy atmosphere suggesting something violent will occur.

What important information is not revealed at the end of Scene 3?

The question of whether or not Brutus will participate in the conspiracy remains unanswered.

Compare Brutus and Cassius: who is thoughtful?

Brutus is the character who displays the trait of being thoughtful.

What does Cassius complain about Caesar in Scene 2?

Cassius complains that Caesar is weak and needed his help to swim across the Tiber River.

Why does Cassius want to kill Caesar?

Cassius is motivated by jealousy because he believes he is stronger than Caesar and deserves more power.

What do Caesar's actions in refusing the crown show according to some characters?

They show he is being artificially modest and thus reflects his tyrannical nature.

What is a tragedy in literature?

A story presenting the downfall of the main character.

What is a tragic hero?

The main character of a tragedy who suffers from a character flaw leading to their downfall.

What is dramatic irony?

When the audience knows important information that a character is unaware of.

What is a soliloquy?

A speech by a character who is alone on stage, expressing private thoughts.

What is an aside?

A remark by a character made to the audience or another character, not heard by other characters on stage.

What is blank verse?

Unrhymed iambic pentameter.