Character Analysis and Plot Elements in Julius Caesar

This set of flashcards covers key characters and themes from the play Julius Caesar, focusing on their personalities, relationships, motivations, and significant plot elements.

Who is Marcus Brutus in Julius Caesar?

A Roman senator, general, and friend of Caesar, known for being intelligent, honorable, and torn between loyalty and support for the republic.

What is Marcus Brutus's internal conflict?

He struggles between his loyalty to Caesar and his desire to protect the republic.

What personality traits define Julius Caesar?

Ambitious, initially not power-hungry, but seduced by public adoration and dismissive of warnings.

How does Julius Caesar react to the offer of the crown?

He turns it down but later becomes increasingly influenced by public praise.

Describe Cassius's personality in Julius Caesar.

Clever, shrewd, and cunning, willing to do anything to achieve his goals but also impulsive.

What is Casca's view of Caesar?

He distrusts Caesar and believes that he is merely pretending to be great.

What significant action does Casca take against Caesar?

He is the first to stab Caesar.

What role does Mark Antony play in Julius Caesar?

He is a Roman senator, general, and close friend of Caesar, skilled in persuasion and politically fickle.

How does Mark Antony respond to Caesar's murder?

Initially supports the conspirators but later withdraws his support.

What predictions does Calpurnia make about Caesar?

She believes in omens and warns Caesar after having nightmares about his death.

What is Portia's emotional state regarding Brutus?

She is emotional and upset because Brutus won't share his thoughts with her.

How does Portia's story end?

She eventually kills herself when Antony and Octavius gain power.

Who is Octavius in relation to Caesar?

Caesar's adopted son who embodies reliability and potential leadership.

What does Brutus's soliloquy reveal about his feelings towards power?

He dislikes the abuse of power and convinces himself that murdering Caesar is necessary.

What disturbs Brutus about the conspiracy?

He is disturbed by the plans and fears being caught.

What does Caesar express fear about in his soliloquy?

He fears being murdered.

Why does Brutus feel pain in relation to the conspiracy?

He feels pained knowing what he plans to do to Caesar.

What does Trebonius plan to do in the conspiracy?

He will be one of the attackers.

Why does Brutus envy Lucius?

Lucius sleeps soundly, free from worries about the conspiracy.

What does Artemidorus want to give to Caesar?

A letter warning him about the plot against him.

Why is Portia upset with Brutus?

She is upset because he is keeping secrets from her.

What makes Calpurnia concerned for Caesar's safety?

Her nightmares about his murder and ominous signs she perceives.

What reasons do Artemidorus and the Soothsayer have for reaching Caesar?

They intend to warn Caesar about the assassination plot.

How does Decius persuade Caesar to go to the Capitol?

He convinces Caesar that Calpurnia's dream is a good omen.

What adjectives can describe Caesar in Act Two?

Suspicious and watchful, as he pays attention to warnings but ultimately ignores them.

What does Brutus reveal about his beliefs in Act 2, Scene 1?

He believes his actions serve the general welfare and prevent tyranny.

What mood does the Soothsayer's prediction create in the play?

It creates a more suspenseful and ominous mood.

Compare Caesar's openness with Calpurnia to Brutus's relationship with Portia.

Caesar is more open with Calpurnia, while Brutus keeps his feelings hidden.

How does Brutus justify the assassination of Caesar?

He argues it is necessary to kill Caesar to prevent future tyranny.

What flaw exists in Brutus's argument regarding Caesar's ambition?

Brutus lacks actual evidence that Caesar will become more tyrannical.

How does Brutus view the act of killing Caesar?

He compares it to killing a snake while still an egg, before it can become a threat.

Why does Cassius want to kill Mark Antony?

Cassius fears that Antony's loyalty to Caesar could result in revenge.

What does Calpurnia urge Julius Caesar to do?

She urges him to stay home and avoid danger.

What leads to Brutus's decision to join the conspiracy?

His commitment to the republic and distrust of Caesar's potential tyranny.

What does Brutus’s soliloquy reveal about his motivations?

He prioritizes the welfare of Rome above personal feelings.

What role does rhetoric play in Antony's character?

He is portrayed as a skilled politician capable of influencing others with his words.

What internal struggle does Brutus face throughout the play?

He wrestles with the moral implications of murdering his friend, Caesar.