STUDY GUIDE FOR The Tragedy of Julius Caesar Act 1 and Act 2

Act 1: In Scene I, what do Flavius and Marcellus want the commoners to do?

They want the commoners to stop celebrating Caesar’s victory and to go back to work because they see the celebration as foolish and dangerous.

 

Act 1: What is the Soothsayer's advice to Caesar?

Beware the Ides of March.” He warns Caesar that danger is coming on March 15.

 

 

Act 1: Explain the difference between the views of Caesar held by Cassius and Brutus.

-              Cassius sees Caesar as ambitous and dangerous; he fears Caesar will become a tyrant

-              Brutus respects Caesar but is concerned about the possibility of Caesar abusing power; he is conflicted

 

Act 1: Caesar clearly gives his thoughts about Cassius. What does he say?

Caesar says Cassius has a “lean and hungry look” and thinks too much; he fears Cassius is dangerous because he is ambitious and intelligent

 

Act 1: Summarize Casca's explanation of why Caesar looked so sad.

Casca explains that Caesar looked sad because he refused the crown three times, even though he secretly wanted it, and the crowd’s reaction upset him.

Act 1: At the end of Scene II in lines 312 - 326, Cassius makes plans. What plans does he make?  Why?

 

Cassius plans to write fake letters from Roman citizens praising Brutus and expressing fear of Caesar. He will throw these letters where Brutus will find them to manipulate Brutus into joining the conspiracy.

 

Act 1: Casca says, "For I believe they are portentous things/Unto the climate that they point upon." What does he mean?

 

He means the strange, unnatural events he has seen (like a storm, lions, and omens) are warnings of something bad about to happen in Rome.

 

Act 1: Why does Cassius want Brutus to join the conspiracy?

Cassius believes Brutus’ honor and popularity will give legitimacy to their plot and help gain support from other Romans.

 

Act 2: To what decision does Brutus come in his orchard? Why?

Brutus decides to join the conspiracy and agree to Caesar’s assassination because he fears Caesar’s ambition will harm Rome.

Act 2: What does Lucius give to Brutus in Scene I?

Lucius gives Brutus a letter (planted by Cassius) that urges him to act against Caesar for the good of Rome.

Act 2: Why doesn't Brutus want to swear an oath with the conspirators?

He believes the cause is noble enough that it doesn’t need an oath; they should act out of honor, not obligation.

Act 2: For what reason does Metellus Cimber want Cicero to join the conspiracy?

 

Metellus thinks Cicero’s wisdom and age will add credibility to the conspiracy.

Act 2: Brutus is against including Cicero and against killing Mark Antony. Why?

 

·       Cicero: Brutus thinks Cicero won’t follow anyone else’s plan, so he’s unpredictable.

·       Mark Antony: Brutus believes killing Antony is unnecessary and could make them seem too bloody; Antony is not a threat without Caesar.

Act 2: Why did Brutus say, "Render me worthy of this noble wife!"?

Brutus says this after Portia confronts him about his secretive behavior; he feels guilty for hiding the plot from her and wants to be deserving of her trust and love.

 

Act 2: Of what does Calpurnia try to convince Caesar?

She tries to convince Caesar to stay home from the Senate because she has had ominous dreams predicting his death.

 

Act 2: Caesar yields to Calpurnia's wishes at first. Why does he change his mind and decide to go to the Senate meeting?

 

Decius convinces Caesar that Calpurnia’s interpretation of her dream is wrong and that the Senate plans to honor him. Caesar changes his mind because he doesn’t want to appear cowardly.

Act 2: What does the note Artemidorus wants to give to Caesar say?

 

The note warns Caesar of the conspiracy and names the conspirators, telling him to beware of them.