Our class time is short. There many questions and insights that result from classwork and homework. I don't want your ideas to go unnoticed.
Your task:
1. Review your notes and annotations from Acts I & II.
What questions remain unanswered? Are you confused about the events of a particular scene? The meaning of a particular line? Maybe there's a word and you just can't find a definition that makes sense in context.
Or...
Share one of those "Ah-HA!" moments. Maybe there was a passage you couldn't make sense of. You came back to it. You reread those lines. You read those lines again. And again. You went to your dictionary. But the events still weren't clear. So you wrote out a question and...Ah-HA! It clicked. And you understand this passage in a whole new way. Tell us about your insight.
2. Click on the comments link below this post. Read through the questions and comments of your classmates. Post your questions and insights, with the relevant line notations (for ex: II.ii.999).
3. Comment on another student's comment. Click on reply directly under the student's comment.
IMPORTANT: Make sure your commenting on the right post. This post is for the morning class, periods 2 & 3.
some questions i had:
ReplyDelete1)Why is the play called Julius Caesar, when it seems he dies halfway through he Play?
2)do the conspirators actually like Brutus more or are they just using him until they can kill Caesar.
To Makeda-
DeleteTo #1 question-> Despite dying even before the play finishes, Julius Caesar still seems to be the central figure that the conflict revolves around thus far. I have no idea if this will continue throughout the rest of play, but the title seems to support the statement.
to #2-> The conspirators probably first use brutus as a way to get to Caesar, but when they see hoe valuable Brutus is, they start liking him. Also I think that they might not like him but must because of Cassius.
Delete#1) Julius Caesar's figure never dies throughout the entire play. He is always there and there would never be a plot without him.
Delete1. Caesar is a significant figure in Roman history. Thus, Shakespeare created a play in honor of Julius Caesar and to recreate a historic moment.
DeleteI believe that Shakespeare wanted to enteratain the Elizabethian era by telling them a story of how power changes men. His play "King Lear," is neamed for the same reason.
DeleteQuestions...
ReplyDelete1) 1.i.276-277 "...offered them his throat to cut." What exactly does this line mean? Does it mean that Caesar humiliated himself?
2) Does the triple rejection of the crown from Caesar mean that he still honors his position as dictator?
3) Who is Artemidorus and what is the reason for his placement in Scene 3? According to Wikipedia he is a Greek Sophist from Cnidos but is this true (since Wikipedia is not trust worthy)?
4) 2.ii.17 What does the word "suitors" in this context? Is it an allusion to Homer's "Odyssey"?
5) Why is Brutus so important to the assassination? Can't the other patricians (like Cassius) carry out the deed themselves?
2) I fail to see why anyone would honor a position as a dictator. Being offered a the crown would be better than ruling as a dictator since having the crown would imply that the public wants Caesar in command
DeleteIn response to question 5, Nathan, I think it is fair to say that the assassination was aided immensely by Brutus. Brutus was close friends with Caesar, which means that Caesar would have least expected Brutus to be behind his death. One of the most famous lines of the play, "Et tu Brutus", shows that Caesar was truly shocked by Brutus' betrayal. It was the perfect set up on the Cassius' part to get Brutus into the conspiracy.
DeleteIn answer to Makeda's question (just an opinion), I think Shakespeare wanted to deceive the audience by allowing them to believe that this is going to be a play about Caesar and his death, a topic most people are familiar with, but instead he offers them (almost like) a story behind the assassination (almost like a story people don't know).
ReplyDeleteTo Nathan-
DeleteTo #2 question-> Caesar may have done this to respect traditional Roman ideas about a dictator's term. On the other hand, Caesar might have refused the crown thrice as a political ploy to win over the masses. In the end, only Caesar himself would be able to tell you his reasoning.
To #4 question-> In The Odyssey, the suitors are all aiming for Penelope's hand after Odysseus departure because they want the land that comes with her name. Look at page 86 in your book - the page with definitions with II.iv.12- and "suitors" is defined as "petitioners." So there is no allusion and the word is simply uncommon.
To #5 question-> Brutus was a trusted friend of Caesar and a respectable politician. If the other patricians had carried out the assassination without Brutus, their cause would appear pretty flimsy.
1)Why is it that certain characters in different versions of Caesar named differently? Even if they were translated differently, shouldn't the names stay the same?
ReplyDelete2)What did Caesar do that makes the public in favor of him so much? I mean even the Soothslayer wanted to warn him.
3)Shock Moment: I can't believe that Brutus and Cassius are brother-in-laws. It really explains a bit more on why Cassius is trying to get Brutus' approval.
To Kelly
Delete1)Can you give me an example?
2.Caesar (before his rise to power) helped to control different areas of the Roman Empire that were considered unstable and could pose a threat.
To Kelly-
DeleteTo #1 question-> I think you just answered your own question. In Rome, they spoke Greek and (a specific type of) Latin, so translations would most likely cause differences in translation to English. Names do not necessarily need the same spelling, but pronunciation is generally similar.
To #2 question-> Check out the Rome section of the World History textbook on Caesar. In my opinion, his accomplishments in the name of Rome are self-explanatory.
yeah i also had the same reactionas you when i found out Brutus and Cassius are relateed.... but did you now that Brutus is related to Caesar?
DeleteThis is true becasue Brutus' mother had a half-sister named Cato the younger who was the mistress of Caesar.
To Monica's reply: Greek was mostly common on the eastern half of the Roman empire and Vulgar Latin was the official common language of the Roman world. i am still puzzled about what you mean by "translations" since Shakespeare did write this in English and changing the names would signify plagiarism.
DeleteTo Nathan-
DeleteI meant translations of the actual names from Rome to English would be different. In addition, a lot of Shakespeare's works were redistributed and there are many different editions of the play.
There is also the controversy that Shakespeare did not write all of his works, complicating matters further...
1) Depending on the publisher and language in which the play is translated in, the names could be directly translated to retain its meaning or it can be transliterated so that it would be able to be read phonetically in the English language. For example, Caesar is actually pronounced "Kai-zar" instead of "See-zer". This is due to its translation from Latin to English
Delete2) If you were to look at Caesar's life and Rome's history, Julius was able to conquer Gaul which brought back resources and territory to Rome. These military theaters made him famous among the people thus, winning support for him from the people of Rome. This is just a brief explanation. Remember that this play was written in Medieval Europe and may not be historically accurate.
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DeleteEdit: Fixed some typos.
DeleteThanks for updating. I didn't know that about the Latin pronunciation.
I need to point out though, that Shakespeare wrote this play after the Renaissance had reached England, coinciding with the reign of Elizabeth I. I point this out because the plays of Medieval Europe were limited to teaching tools, educating illiterate audiences about the morals and values of Christianity. A play about a historical figure from classical Rome could not be performed during the middle ages.
I do think you're right about Shakespeare's lack of historical accuracy. There are many places where he deviates from Plutarch's accounts. There are a number of interesting theories as to why Shakespeare might do this.
1) I.ii.85-86 "What means this shouting? I do fear the people / Choose Caesar for their king."
ReplyDeleteWhy did Brutus oppose to having Caesar as king in the first place?
2) In II.iv., what is Portia's purpose in the play if she cannot do anything but anxiously await news of the conspirators' deed?
for#1-> brutus probably opposes Caesar as king because he is jealous or he probably fears of how Rome will be controlled by one ruler. he may be thinking of how his power may be lost
DeleteI agree with your question 2. I feel that at this stage in the play, Portia does not really play a role besides being Brutus' wife. Her feelings are well displayed in (II.iv).
DeleteII.ii.3,10,12,30,etc. Why does Julius Caesar talk in the 3rd person? And why isn't it consistent? Because at II.ii.60 he returns to the first person.
ReplyDeleteShakespeare has Caesar talk in third person in order to show that Caesar is condescending and arrogant. It is common in writing for a person with a high opinion of themself to talk this way.
DeleteAs for why it isn't consistent, the number of syllables in each would have been too much. Shakespeare was known for having all the lines he wrote have the same number of syllables. If he had put "Caesar" instead of "I", then some of the lines would have more syllables than others. Vice versa, some of the lines would have ended up too short.
Adding on the Daria, Shakespeare wrote the play in an iambic pentameter which added a beat to the text. In order to follow the iambic pentameter, he may have disregarded consistency just to maintain that poetic flow.
Delete1) I'm asking this question in general because I have noticed this throughout the play. Why do the character refer to themselves in the third person? One of many example: "...Nor construe any further my neglect than that poor Brutus, with himself at war, forgets the shows of love to other men." (I.ii.51-53)
ReplyDeleteAnd I had two "Aha" moments :D
Firstly, in II.i.113, Caesar says, "And look where Publius is come to fetch me." When I first read this I was thinking, "Okay, this must have some kind of deeper meaning; it's too simple for Shakespeare." , I looked up the meaning of the word "fetch" because I wondered if it had another meaning, and lo and behold it did! Fetch, according to the New Oxford American Dictionary, can mean "the apparition or double of a living person, formerly believed to be a warning of that person's impending death." Therefore, I think it's some kind of pun, or maybe it's just a coincidence...but I doubt it.
Secondly, I know this getting ahead, but in III.i.127 Brutus says, "How many times shall Caesar bleed in sport..." In this context, sport refers to a performance or play; therefore, I think that Shakespeare is referencing his own play within the play. I'm not exactly sure if this counts as an "Aha" moment, but I thought it was interesting.
1) Does Brutus believe Cassius is a good friend? Does Cassius believe Brutus is a good friend?
ReplyDelete2) Does Portia approve of her husband's intentions?
3) Will Brutus act on his plan to kill Caesar?
Adham, these are all very good questions.Personally, i think that Brtus believes that Cassius is a good friend. On the other hand, Cassius is just using Brutus to kill Caesar because Cassius is jealous of Ceasar.
Delete1. Why does Brutus not tell Portia about the conspirators and the plan against Caesar? Does the fact that she's a women make him distrust her?
ReplyDelete2. Does Brutus eventually give into peer pressure or does he truly want to kill Caesar? I couldn't find exact evidence, such as his own thoughts, about Brutus on the planned assassination of Caesar.
1. Brutus does not tell Portia about the conspirators and the plan against Caesar because he does not want Portia finding out about the conspiracy. He fears that Portia might let the secret out which would foil their plans for Caesar.
Delete2. Brutus is actually the noblest out of all the conspirators because Brutus is doing this for the people and betterment of Rome. He feared that the creation of the position of Emperor would threaten Rome's status as being a republic. This actually requires you to note Brutus's actions while comparing them to the other conspirators so that you can derive the fact that Brutus was not greedy or jealous but cared for the people.
What's the difference between the historical death of julius Caesar and the death of Caesar showed in the play?
ReplyDeleteOne more question, why do Calfurnia and Portia call their husbands "lords"?
DeleteWhy do some words have an accent mark over them?
DeleteLike Kelly, I was also shocked to discover the familial relationship between brutus and Cassius.
I also wondered if Shakespeare's time period affected his plays?
I believe that Portia and Calfurnia call their husbands "lord" is due to the fact that in Old English it is referred to the husband of the household to hold greater authority and have a a respectful form of address.
DeleteSorry forgot to write the top comments is mine Frishta A.
DeleteTo Bilal-
DeleteShakespeare follows a type of meter called iambic pentameter. In most of his plays and tragedies, he sticks very closely to his meter, save a couple of lines. The accent on the words emphasizes them to stretch out the number of syllables, since each line had to have ten syllables.
For example, "vexéd" would be pronounced (VEX-ihd).
(I.i.63-65)"Go you down that way towards the Capitol. This way will I. Disrobe the images. If you do find them decked with ceremonies." said by Flavius.
ReplyDeleteMarullus tells Flavius that today is the feast of Lupercal. The feast of Lupercal is an annual celebration to honor the god Lupercus. Still knowing this Flavius says "It is no matter. Let no images
Be hung with Caesar’s trophies. I’ll about and drive away the vulgar from the streets." (I.i.68-70). This was a surprise moment because Flavius ignored the fact that the ceremony was in honor of Lupercus and decides to tear down any signs of Julius Caesar's triumph. Why is this?
In (II.iv) Why does Portia act like almost a "useless" character? What is exactly her part ? Is she a side person?
What is the exact definition of a lord in the play Julius Caesar? It is used in a wide variety starting from commoners talking to authorized people and Calfurnia calling her husband.
I think a lot of people were on the same boat as me when they found out the relationship between Brutus and Cassius.
James, good question, lord is a term that women used when talking to their husbands to be respectful. It was common during Shakespeare's time; it appears in many of his plays. I looked up where it originated from and it actually comes from the Bible. Back then, women were supposed to "submit" to their husbands, so by calling their husbands "lord", it was respectful. Also, remember that during both Caesar and Shakespeare's times, women were treated as inferior, so it makes sense that they needed to treat their husbands like a god.
Delete1) Why are there different point of views in the "Radio Julius Caesar"?
ReplyDelete2) Brutus is presented as loving his wife very much, and you can tell that they are loving toward each other. But if they were so faithful, why won't Brutus tell his wife about the revolt? His wife, Portia, states how women have very little power, so why doesn't he just tell her? She probably can't do much.
3) Does Portia like Caesar?
4) Did Brutus's self confidence increase after Cassius praise him so much to convince him in going against Caesar?
2) I believe by not telling Portia is the best option. I assume Brutus does not want his beloved wife to worry for him and panic due to his actions.
DeleteFrishta A.
ReplyDelete1) Why does Cassius begin the conspiracy to kill Caesar when he could have let him die when he saved his life swimming I.ii.115-125?
Good question, Frishta. I believe that at that time, both of these men were generals, and Cassius was not yet a Senator. After Caesar's victories in many battles, the Senators appointed him consul, at which point Cassius took position as Senator. Over time,the some Senators started to believe that Caesar wanted to become king. Then, Cassius realized that he would not have as much power as he does now if Caesar became king. In jealousy, he plotted Caesar's murder. This is my belief.
DeleteWhy did the men bother to hide their faces? When they were plotting, they went in (I guess) hooded capes. If they believed what they were doing was for the greater good, why not soak up the glory?
ReplyDelete1) What is Calphurnia's role in the play besides warning Caesar?
ReplyDelete2) Who is Artemidorus? (II.iii.1-10)
2)If the website I got this from is true,"Artemidorus was a teacher of Rhetory and a well-wisher of Julius Caesar who had the knowledge of some planning and plotting against Caesar, so as a faithful subject he wanted to save his ruler, whom he loved, from the evil clutches of the conspirators." Also,"The man who nearly saves Caesar, he presents Caesar with a letter warning warning Caesar that he will be killed (Act II, Scene III)." I hope this answers your question.
DeleteThanks! Yes it does (:
Delete1) Portia doesn't really do much. What is her significance, if any, to the play?
ReplyDelete2) Why do the wives refer to their husbands as "lords"? Does this have to do anything with the historical time period?
3) What are some differences between the play and history?
Questions
ReplyDelete1) Was Pompey truly better than Caesar? How so?
2) Wouldn't it have bought up suspicion when the conspirators, Cassius, Casca, Decius, Cinna, Metellus, and Trebonius all came to see Brutus all at once?
1) "And we are governed with out mothers' spirits./ Our yoke and sufferance show us womanish (I.ii.86-87)"
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to point out that Cassius compares the Roman men under "Caesar's rule" to women. This probably would have offended many men since women are not considered to be of intellectual value in this Republic. I believe that with this comment Cassius was able to lure and persuade more men on his team.
2) Caesar receives many signs from servants, slaves, the stars, and even his wife to "beware the Ides of March"; yet, he believes that these people are foolish. Do you think that if he payed attention to these signs he would have been alive, or was it already written in the stars for him to be murdered.
1)What does Cassius mean when he describes his role for Brutus as “your glass”? (I.ii.73)
ReplyDelete2)What are the Romans celebrating at the time of Caesar's return?
Throughout the play Julius Caesar, characters can be distinguished by their dialogues or their actions. Although the dialogue of the characters hinders their attitudes and personality, it was difficult to understand Brutus views on Caesar. I ponder on the question “What is Brutus point of view of Caesar?” I continued to read the book and at last I had my “Ah- ha!” moment. The alternating views on Caesar, reflects Brutus’ loyalty to Caesar conflicted by views portrayed by the “Public”. I realize that Brutus could be easily persuaded. In the beginning of the book Brutus did not want to be part of the conspiracy and kill Caesar. I realize Brutus is not confident with his point of view on Caesar. He can’t find a reason to kill Caesar therefore allows himself to easily be persuaded by Cassius and the other men that are against Caesar.
ReplyDelete“What means this shouting? I do fear, the people Choose Caesar for their king.” (I.ii.85-86)
It must be by his death, and for my part
I know no personal cause to spurn at him
But for the general. He would be crowned.
How that might change his nature, there’s the question.
It is the bright day that brings forth the adder
And that craves wary walking. Crown him that,
And then I grant we put a sting in him
That at his will he may do danger with(II.i.10-18).
“Brutus, thou sleep’st. Awake, and see thyself.
Shall Rome, etc. Speak, strike, redress!”
“Brutus, thou sleep’st. Awake.”
Such instigations have been often dropped
Where I have took them up.
—“Shall Rome, etc.” Thus must I piece it out:
“Shall Rome stand under one man’s awe?” What, Rome?
My ancestors did from the streets of Rome
The Tarquin drive when he was called a king.
—“Speak, strike, redress!” Am I entreated
To speak and strike? O Rome, I make thee promise,
If the redress will follow, thou receivest
Thy full petition at the hand of Brutus!(II.i. 49-61)
Regarding about Caesar, Brutus feels Caesar is a great friends and he sincerely likes him, but why does Brutus feel he isn't the right person for the job? Is there anyone he feels in competent in this position?
ReplyDeleteIs Brutus not aware of the level of intensity to take a job similar to this?
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ReplyDelete- In Act III, Scene 1, Caesar mentions in the beginning that “What touches us ourself shall be last served”. I'm not completely sure, but I think he is trying to say that his last note on his "priority list" is to take care of his personal concerns. This made me think that Caesar has more important things to settle than himself.
ReplyDelete- I think somebody has already mentioned this before, but what was the purpose of the people washing their hands in Caesar's blood? Was it some sort of tradition? It is certainly not by choice, because that sounds rather... disgusting.
1. Why doesn't Sheakespeare show the readers when Mark Antony planned his speech? I felt that at one point he was taking sides with Cassius, saying that what they have done is correct, and, at another point, he is getting the patricians to attack the conspirators. (I.ii.70-180)
ReplyDeleteWho did Rome see as the better ruler:
ReplyDeleteCaesar or Pompey?
Why?
Saif,
DeleteCan this be answered in the play?
What do you know from your historical study of Rome?
Mr. Shellhase