Please review the directions from the previous post on "Unanswered Questions." Your task is the same: post questions or Ah-HA! momments and comment on another student's post.
1. In III.ii.43-275, I noticed that the plebeians are portrayed as gullible and easily persuaded, as they switch from being in favor of Brutus to Mark Antony. Why is the crowd so easily persuaded? It's almost frustrating as a reader and I was wondering if anyone else felt this way while reading.
2. In III.ii. 91-243, Mark Antony's speech to the public, Antony continues to use the phrase "honorable men". Why does he do this, when clearly, these men are not honorable? Is sarcasm implied?
Maybe it has something to do with what Ms.Rowley said today about Shakespeare having written these plays for Elizabethan audiences in particular the Queen. perhaps it was meant to humor her or have something she or the reach and powerful of the time could connect with. But i don't know for sure its just a thought.
To answer the second question Erika, I believe Antony uses the diction "honorable men" to make the illusion that he respects the conspirators, but even though they are "honorable men" they have made a great mistake by murdering Caesar. So the term "honorable men" make the public respect the conspirators in the beginning until their faults are revealed.
To Question/Comment 1- The way the crowd is easily persuaded may be frustrating, but I believe the play accurately depicts the fickle nature of people. Modern-day people are inherently the same; they often follow trends, listen to the words of celebrities over officials, and are constantly changing sides.
Throughout scene three, Brutus and Cassius argue over the past and what should have been done and how. If they were truly smart men, they would have planned what should be done after the deed was done and Caesar was dead. Why do Cassius and Brutus not think ahead?
Well asctuall Cassius probably thought ahead because he tries to find out whether Antony will be one of their supporters(when Antony comes in after Caesar's Death). Antony replies that he is their friend, but he still wants to hear how they justify their act. As we all know ,Antony asks that he may be permitted to speak at Caesar's funeral. Brutus immediately grants this request, but Cassius pulls him aside, saying that they should refuse to let Antony speak, since he may sway people against them. Brutus tries to reassure him by saying that he will speak first and tell the people why Caesar was killed, and will then emphasize that Antony speaks with their permission. The assassins want Caesar to have all the ceremony that is due to him; Brutus says this will rebound to their advantage. Cassius is not convinced, but he does not oppose Brutus's plan. Brutus gives Antony permission to take Caesar's body. He tells him he may praise Caesar in his speech, but must also say that he does so with their permission. So as you can see, Cassius probablt hought about the consequences in the beginning.
1)I really wonder if Mark Antony was planning to gain power from the very beginning. It seems as if he is riding on the conspirators doings to gain favor from the plebeians. Wasn't he loyal to Caesar? I mean where did he start his plan?
2) Why does Brutus tell confess to the plebeians of what the conspirators and he did? Where does his courage come from when he knew most of the plebeians were already in favor of Caesar. I find it very frustrating, like Erika said, about how the plebeians switched opinions of following Brutus to Mark Antony so quickly.
Does Mark Antony use an early form of sarcasm? I noticed that in Act III, he seems to repeat 2 particular lines a lot -- "Brutus say he (Caesar) was ambitious." / "Brutus is an honorable man."
To Question 2 - From my perspective, the main point of Scene Three is to reveal the dark side of the actions spurred on by Antony's words. The conspirators experience karma and retribution for their murder of Caesar, but innocent Romans (such as Cinna the poet) are harmed along the way.
1) "Et tu Brute?" is Latin for "And you Brutus?" This simply means that Caesar was shocked that his closest friend would take part in his murder. As for "Then fall, Caesar," that is a stage direction.
Tiffany for your first question, the dialogue was not intended as a stage direction, instead it showed dishonor and betrayal of friendship because Caesar assumed he shared a relationship with Brutus.
When reading this line of the play - probably one of the most famous lines - I actually assumed that "Then fall, Caesar" was not a stage direction, but rather Caesar's way of giving up on life. After all, he has just been betrayed by what he thought was a dear friend; his last words, not surprisingly show disbelief and shock. While "Then fall, Caesar" may serve a dual purpose as a stage direction, I think it is much more than that.
1) In III.i.118-119, what is the significance of the conspirators covering their hands and weapons with Caesar's blood? The deed sounds gruesome and unsanitary.
2) Starting from III.i.164, Mark Antony drops many hints of his surviving loyalty to Caesar beyond death. How does Brutus miss Antony's threat to the conspirators? As a character, Brutus frustrates me because he shows intelligence and insight sometimes, but ignorance and obliviousness during other occasions.
3) In III.iii.34, the plebeians murder Cinna the poet although they acknowledge he is not Cinna the conspirator. Why do they carry out the killing of an innocent man regardless?
hey, to question 1 - i believe that the significance of the conspirators covering their hands and weapons with Caesar's blood, was put in by Shakespeare to emphasize the gruesome murder act that the conspirators just committed.
hey, to question 1 - i believe that the significance of the conspirators covering their hands and weapons with Caesar's blood, was put in by Shakespeare to emphasize the gruesome murder act that the conspirators just committed.
Frishta A. 3)Well in my opinion I thought that the reason that the plebeians murder Cinna the poet even though they acknowledge he is not Cinna the conspirator because one the people of Rome were manipulated by Mark Anthony's words to the extend that they were in full rage. You can also connect it to the Ramayana when the nurse convinces Brahma's mother into executing Rama. She was so enraged and pulled by the nurses words that she had lost her human senses and all she cared about was power. This is sort of similar the people of Rome are so enraged of what has occurred inside the Senate's Chambers that they did not care whom they killed or what they did because they had lost all senses of humanity.
i also agree with you that it was very unfair. I believe that the Plebeians kill the poet for having the same name as one of the conspirators, because they want to show how serious they are in wanting to kill each and every conspirator. This act may have been used as a warning by the plebeians for the conspirators.
Lilly: I actually had the same response in the beginning. They mistaken him as Cinna the Conspirator oppose to Cinna the Poet. It is unfair, however, because the people wanted a mutiny, whenever they though something was wrong, they will act for it. It just shows how brutal these people were. This also shows their loyalty to one of their leaders.
I do not believe they would've killed Cinna if they honestly knew that Cinna was not involved with the conspirators. I think it was just a way to pacify the situation.
It is very ironic that Antony insulted Brutus and Cassius in their presence, yet Brutus and Cassius were not provoked. Was Brutus just being ignorant or understanding when he did not reply to Antony’s insults? He called them all enemies, including Brutus, who we know was Caesar’s friend more than an enemy. “That I did love thee, Caesar, O, ’tis true. If then thy spirit look upon us now, Shall it not grieve thee dearer than thy death To see thy Antony making his peace, Shaking the bloody fingers of thy foes— It would become me better than to close In terms of friendship with thine enemies.”(III.i.109)
I want to comment on Aliyah’s question that she asked earlier in class. “Why are the servants and women referred by their first name while, nobles are addressed by their last names?” My answer to that question is that during Caesar’s era status was differentiated by the diction and syntax. In order to show respect the last name was used to address a noble. On the other hand, the first name was used only to show that the person being spoken to was inferior, when compared to the speaker.
III.ii.157 "'Tis good you know not that you are his heirs, for if you should, O, what would come of it?" Why does Antony say this to the plebeians? Did Caesar actually say this, or is it made up for persuasive purposes?
In Act III Scene iii, why do the plebeians kill Cinna the poet even after he tells them he isn't Cinna the conspirator? After Cinna the poet says this, a plebeian replies, "It is no matter. His name's Cinna. Pluck but his name from his heart, and turn him going." (III.iii.34). This would mean the plebeians knew he wasn't a conspirator, but still killed him. Why
To the Second Question->The conspirators probably were in rage mode, so they didn't care who they killed they just wanted blood and the ones to be punished, be punished. Also they were probably so enraged that it didn't matter who they killed.
I am very confused about what is happening in lines 57-104. Who is Publius Cimber and why does Brutus state, "Desiring thee that Publius Cimber may/Have an immediate freedom of repeal"? (III.I. 57-59)
Also, I understand that the Roman mob wants to kill of all of the conspirators but didn't they realize that Cinna, the poet didn't look like Cinna the senator? Did they just kill the poet because he and the senator shared the same name?
to question 1, part 1-> First, Metellus Cimber kneels and puts his petition to Caesar. But Caesar refuses his request. Metellus Cimber's brother, also known as Publius Cimber, will remain banished. Metellus tries again, and Brutus joins him in his plea, to Caesar's surprise. Then Cassius kneels and joins the appeal to Caesar. But Caesar remains unmoved, declaring that he is as constant as the north star. He prides himself on being unbending.
to the second question, i believe this act of murder was a way of warning the conspirators that the plebeians were serious about killing them. Poor Cinna the poet...
1. I've noticed that many people, like the Plebeians, are easily persuaded throughout the play. This is also true for Caesar himself. Why does Shakespeare make the characters so gullible? Does this just help get to the point of what character wants to say? 2. In III.ii.254-266, Mark Antony tells the plebeians about Caesars will. Did Caesar actually make a will, or did Mark Antony make it up to get support? Also, if Caesar DID make a will, did he really say to leave all of "...his walks, his private arbors, and new-planted orchards, on this side Tiber...to your heirs forever..." (III.ii.261-264) for the plebeians?
In the beginning of Scene 3, Act 1, Brutus suggests that he did not do any wrong. He even tells the fellow conspirators to dip their hands in Caesar's blood. What does this signify? Question 2: Cinna notes, "Liberty! Freedom! Tyranny is dead! Run hence, proclaim, cry it about the streets" and Cassius said, "Some to the common pulpits, and cry out, Liberty, freedom, and enfranchisement!” With a note under these statements, "Confusion. Exeunt some plebians and senators", does this mean the conspiracy only reflects the opinions of the conspirators or as the population as a whole? However, later the plebeians follow what the conspirators say.
Frishta A. What got me really thinking from Act 3 Scene 2 from lines 40 to line 276 was the fact that during Caesars funeral Brutus speaks first to prevent any misunderstanding from the people of Rome as to why Caesar had died. But then we see Anthony speaking, since Brutus was there during the beginning of the funeral and leaves after his speech, I am just surprised how all the conspirators left Anthony alone to speak to the public. Wasn't Cassius doubting Anthony? Shouldn't he have left someone to keep an eye so that Anthony won't say things against their actions and stop Anthony? For a group of power hungry men whom are known for governing Rome this does not make sense?
III.i.115 BRUTUS "Grant that, and then is death a benefit. So are we Caesar’s friends, that have abridged His time of fearing death. Stoop, Romans, stoop, And let us bathe our hands in Caesar’s blood Up to the elbows, and besmear our swords. Then walk we forth, even to the marketplace, And waving our red weapons o'er our heads Let’s all cry, “Peace, freedom, and liberty!”
Did the conspirators really do Caesar a favor? Or would Caesar have preferred to fear death and yet rule Rome as an empire?
In III.ii.50, why are the Plebians so easily convinced? Do they truly support what they say?
I felt that a shocking moment was when the First Plebian asked "As a friend or an enemy?" And Cinna answered "friend" without any hesitation. I think Cinna is a very respectful person that attends Caesar's funeral. (III.iii.20)
One question i have is that during scene 2, why does Brutus and the other conspirators take the risk of allowing Antony to speak at Caesars funeral? Antony had been very loyal to Caesar, so Antony's speech was sort of expected....
Another question i have that also pertains to Antony's speech was " Why is the crowd more persuaded by Antony's speech than Brutus's speech?" Is not Brutus a more respected and well known figure? Why did the crowd listen to Antony instead of Brutus?
In III.ii.14-36 Brutus explains that he kills Caesar because he loves Rome more than Caesar. He compliments Caesar, saying he was a brave and honorable man, but kills him for his ambition. What are Brutus' true views of Caesar? How do the Plebeians respond to his speech?
Anyone else find it humorous when the plebeians take Cinna the poet away at the end of Act 3 Scene 3 because they confused him for Cinna the conspirator?
I also found it humorous when the plebeians took Cinna the poet away. They were so caught up in their rage over Caesar's death, they only paid attention to his name, not who he was.
An Ah-HA moment I had was when the plebeians carried away Cinna the poet. This made me realize the impact Mark Antony's speech had on them. They were willing to take away an innocent person just because his name was the same as one of the conspirators.
hey, Mr. Shellhase , i am posting this on behalf of jessan, as he is unable to post it his response for some reason.
Questions / Comments
- 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.
- 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 did the angered mob of plebeians kill Cinna the poet even though he insisted that he was a different Cinna and that he just shared the same name with the other Cinna which was one of the conspirators?
Act 3 Scene 3 FIRST CITIZEN. Tear him to pieces! he's a conspirator.
CINNA. I am Cinna the poet, I am Cinna the poet.
FOURTH CITIZEN. Tear him for his bad verses, tear him for his bad verses.
CINNA. I am not Cinna the conspirator.
FOURTH CITIZEN. It is no matter, his name's Cinna; pluck but his name out of his heart, and turn him going.
2) I noticed quite a lot of comments regarding Antony's speech after the death of Caesar and I wanted to add to to the question as to why Brutus had let Antony to continue to speak after seeing the crowd's reaction to his speech. Cassius was right in the first place of not letting Antony address the crowd but couldn't they have stopped him mid-speech?
i think this scene was written by Shakespeare to show the audience that during the next two acts of the play, the plebeians will support the formation of a chaotic atmosphere (politically) in Rome.
1) Why are the people portrayed as ignorant brutes? Is this a way to tell the audience the flaws of a republic?
2) "Then fall, Caesar" 3.i.85 Is this line part of the dialogue or is it a stage direction?
3) Why didn't Antony kill Brutus (or the other conspirators) when he had the chance? Did he think that that this would cause confusion among the people of Rome?
Despite everyone's comments and questions about the Roman mob and such; I thought back to the in-class essay we wrote a while ago when I read Act III. Were Brutus and the conspirators actually considered bad guys if they believed what they were doing was the right thing and not considered to be murdered (before they actually killed Caesar)?
I also have the same question as some people: why are the plebeians so easily swayed and gullible?
Brutus also contradicts his thoughts multiple times when the story is reaching towards the death of Caesar. For example, in scene 1, Brutus calls Caesar his friend but then Brutus says he is "no worthier than dust"(III.i.129).
Popilius: "I wish your enterprise today may thrive" (III.i.14) This quote made me wonder if Popilius really did know about the conspiracy against Caesar even though he didn't say anything to Caesar. Even if Popilius did not know about the conspiracy, what did he mean by this? And does Popilius really know about the conspiracy?
In Act 3 Scene 2, what are the differences between Brutus's speech and Antony's speech to the pleibeians? Which speech is more effective towards the pleibeians and why?
Antony says "...let me not stir you up To such a sudden flood of mutiny." (III.ii.222-223) and he also says "I am no orator, as Brutus is..." (III.ii. 229)Antony seems to be contradicting himself because he is trying to stir up a mutiny just by the use of his words. Was this his intention?
In Act 3 Scene 3, why do the pleibeians kill Cinna the Poet when he declares that he isn't Cinna the conspirator?
A question i had was, why is Shakespeare so vague with the timing of the scene. he makes it seem as if the events happen quickly, Caesar's death, Anthony's return after rather quickly from his home to the senate house. it would make sense if the events happened over a couple of hours but, it seemed more like 15 minutes.
To answer the question about who led Caesar's murder, i believe its Brutus because he gave the other senators reassurance with his power. i think having Brutus on their side was one of the driving forces that made them follow through with the conspiracy.
A question I had was about the plebians. Why did it seem like they were so confused? They killed the wrong person, Cinna the poet, why didn't they kill the conspirator Cinna?
As I read Act III, I originally thought Cinna the Poet and Cinna the Conspirator were the same. Since he's a conspirator, I thought he disguised himself. However, I later realized that they were two different people and that the crowd was killing an innocent person. Why? Also, even though Rome is in chaos now isn't this still a crime to be punished for?
In Act III, Scene i had wondered what Caesar meant in lines 64-68 when he said, "I could be well moved, if I were as you. If I could pray to move, prayers would move me. But I am constant as the Northern Star, Of whose true fixed and resting quality There is no fellow in the firmament." Would I be correct in saying that Caesar considered himself to never be able to be moved because of his power (even though he is killed in the next scene)?
1) Why does the Soothsayer's last line sound more like gliating than a warning? 2) How did people, like Artemidorus, find out about the conspiracy? Why are they agreeing with the other conspirators? 3) Why did Caesar stop holding back when he realized tgat Brutus was one of his attackers? 4) Why does Brutus trust Antony, while Cassius does not? 5) Why does Brutus leave after letting Antony make his speech?
ok for your second question its because of the 3 conditions cassius and brutus gave Antony. He cannot say anything bad about them so he keeps saying honorable men in his speech so he is following the guidelines and the plebeians are not portrayed as gullible. When you read it he keeps them frustrated with teasing them with topics they dont know about. which makes them curious and angry. to really make them angry to get in the mob against brutus he starts to bring up a will and say how caesar is not ambitious (evil more less) he wanted to set you free in the will he wrote. So ,pretty much i hope that answers your questions
oh also cassius is manipulative and brutus is actually a good man just gullible. Brutus leaves after his speech bc he is so sure the crowd will be on his side it wont matter what antony says.(but an audience remembers the last one to speak woah debate rules!!)
Act III Comments/Questions
ReplyDelete1. In III.ii.43-275, I noticed that the plebeians are portrayed as gullible and easily persuaded, as they switch from being in favor of Brutus to Mark Antony. Why is the crowd so easily persuaded? It's almost frustrating as a reader and I was wondering if anyone else felt this way while reading.
2. In III.ii. 91-243, Mark Antony's speech to the public, Antony continues to use the phrase "honorable men". Why does he do this, when clearly, these men are not honorable? Is sarcasm implied?
Maybe it has something to do with what Ms.Rowley said today about Shakespeare having written these plays for Elizabethan audiences in particular the Queen. perhaps it was meant to humor her or have something she or the reach and powerful of the time could connect with. But i don't know for sure its just a thought.
DeleteTo answer the second question Erika, I believe Antony uses the diction "honorable men" to make the illusion that he respects the conspirators, but even though they are "honorable men" they have made a great mistake by murdering Caesar. So the term "honorable men" make the public respect the conspirators in the beginning until their faults are revealed.
DeleteTo Question/Comment 1-
DeleteThe way the crowd is easily persuaded may be frustrating, but I believe the play accurately depicts the fickle nature of people. Modern-day people are inherently the same; they often follow trends, listen to the words of celebrities over officials, and are constantly changing sides.
Erika, I wondered the same thing about the the crowd. However, I believe this is because of how Shakespeare thought about the Elizabethian England.
DeleteThroughout scene three, Brutus and Cassius argue over the past and what should have been done and how. If they were truly smart men, they would have planned what should be done after the deed was done and Caesar was dead. Why do Cassius and Brutus not think ahead?
ReplyDeleteWell asctuall Cassius probably thought ahead because he tries to find out whether Antony will be one of their supporters(when Antony comes in after Caesar's Death). Antony replies that he is their friend, but he still wants to hear how they justify their act.
DeleteAs we all know ,Antony asks that he may be permitted to speak at Caesar's funeral. Brutus immediately grants this request, but Cassius pulls him aside, saying that they should refuse to let Antony speak, since he may sway people against them. Brutus tries to reassure him by saying that he will speak first and tell the people why Caesar was killed, and will then emphasize that Antony speaks with their permission. The assassins want Caesar to have all the ceremony that is due to him; Brutus says this will rebound to their advantage. Cassius is not convinced, but he does not oppose Brutus's plan. Brutus gives Antony permission to take Caesar's body. He tells him he may praise Caesar in his speech, but must also say that he does so with their permission. So as you can see, Cassius probablt hought about the consequences in the beginning.
1)I really wonder if Mark Antony was planning to gain power from the very beginning. It seems as if he is riding on the conspirators doings to gain favor from the plebeians. Wasn't he loyal to Caesar? I mean where did he start his plan?
ReplyDelete2) Why does Brutus tell confess to the plebeians of what the conspirators and he did? Where does his courage come from when he knew most of the plebeians were already in favor of Caesar. I find it very frustrating, like Erika said, about how the plebeians switched opinions of following Brutus to Mark Antony so quickly.
Does Mark Antony use an early form of sarcasm?
ReplyDeleteI noticed that in Act III, he seems to repeat 2 particular lines a lot -- "Brutus say he (Caesar) was ambitious." / "Brutus is an honorable man."
1. In Act III.i.85, Why does Caesar say "Et tu, Brute? - Then fall, Caesar." Is it supposed to be some kind of stage direction?
ReplyDelete2. What is the point of having scene three? Is there supposed to be some-kind of hidden message?
To Question 2 -
DeleteFrom my perspective, the main point of Scene Three is to reveal the dark side of the actions spurred on by Antony's words. The conspirators experience karma and retribution for their murder of Caesar, but innocent Romans (such as Cinna the poet) are harmed along the way.
1) "Et tu Brute?" is Latin for "And you Brutus?" This simply means that Caesar was shocked that his closest friend would take part in his murder. As for "Then fall, Caesar," that is a stage direction.
DeleteTiffany for your first question, the dialogue was not intended as a stage direction, instead it showed dishonor and betrayal of friendship because Caesar assumed he shared a relationship with Brutus.
DeleteTo question 1-
DeleteWhen reading this line of the play - probably one of the most famous lines - I actually assumed that "Then fall, Caesar" was not a stage direction, but rather Caesar's way of giving up on life. After all, he has just been betrayed by what he thought was a dear friend; his last words, not surprisingly show disbelief and shock. While "Then fall, Caesar" may serve a dual purpose as a stage direction, I think it is much more than that.
1) In III.i.118-119, what is the significance of the conspirators covering their hands and weapons with Caesar's blood? The deed sounds gruesome and unsanitary.
ReplyDelete2) Starting from III.i.164, Mark Antony drops many hints of his surviving loyalty to Caesar beyond death. How does Brutus miss Antony's threat to the conspirators? As a character, Brutus frustrates me because he shows intelligence and insight sometimes, but ignorance and obliviousness during other occasions.
3) In III.iii.34, the plebeians murder Cinna the poet although they acknowledge he is not Cinna the conspirator. Why do they carry out the killing of an innocent man regardless?
hey, to question 1 - i believe that the significance of the conspirators covering their hands and weapons with Caesar's blood, was put in by Shakespeare to emphasize the gruesome murder act that the conspirators just committed.
Deletehey, to question 1 - i believe that the significance of the conspirators covering their hands and weapons with Caesar's blood, was put in by Shakespeare to emphasize the gruesome murder act that the conspirators just committed.
DeleteFrishta A.
Delete3)Well in my opinion I thought that the reason that the plebeians murder Cinna the poet even though they acknowledge he is not Cinna the conspirator because one the people of Rome were manipulated by Mark Anthony's words to the extend that they were in full rage. You can also connect it to the Ramayana when the nurse convinces Brahma's mother into executing Rama. She was so enraged and pulled by the nurses words that she had lost her human senses and all she cared about was power. This is sort of similar the people of Rome are so enraged of what has occurred inside the Senate's Chambers that they did not care whom they killed or what they did because they had lost all senses of humanity.
1. Why do the Plebians kill the poet just because he has the same name as one of the conspirators?
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion, I think this was unfair especially because the poet Cinna seems like a by-stander.
i also agree with you that it was very unfair. I believe that the Plebeians kill the poet for having the same name as one of the conspirators, because they want to show how serious they are in wanting to kill each and every conspirator. This act may have been used as a warning by the plebeians for the conspirators.
DeleteLilly: I actually had the same response in the beginning. They mistaken him as Cinna the Conspirator oppose to Cinna the Poet. It is unfair, however, because the people wanted a mutiny, whenever they though something was wrong, they will act for it. It just shows how brutal these people were.
DeleteThis also shows their loyalty to one of their leaders.
I do not believe they would've killed Cinna if they honestly knew that Cinna was not involved with the conspirators. I think it was just a way to pacify the situation.
DeleteIt is very ironic that Antony insulted Brutus and Cassius in their presence, yet Brutus and Cassius were not provoked. Was Brutus just being ignorant or understanding when he did not reply to Antony’s insults? He called them all enemies, including Brutus, who we know was Caesar’s friend more than an enemy.
ReplyDelete“That I did love thee, Caesar, O, ’tis true.
If then thy spirit look upon us now,
Shall it not grieve thee dearer than thy death
To see thy Antony making his peace,
Shaking the bloody fingers of thy foes—
It would become me better than to close
In terms of friendship with thine enemies.”(III.i.109)
I want to comment on Aliyah’s question that she asked earlier in class. “Why are the servants and women referred by their first name while, nobles are addressed by their last names?”
My answer to that question is that during Caesar’s era status was differentiated by the diction and syntax. In order to show respect the last name was used to address a noble. On the other hand, the first name was used only to show that the person being spoken to was inferior, when compared to the speaker.
III.ii.157 "'Tis good you know not that you are his heirs, for if you should, O, what would come of it?" Why does Antony say this to the plebeians? Did Caesar actually say this, or is it made up for persuasive purposes?
ReplyDeleteIn Act III Scene iii, why do the plebeians kill Cinna the poet even after he tells them he isn't Cinna the conspirator? After Cinna the poet says this, a plebeian replies, "It is no matter. His name's Cinna. Pluck but his name from his heart, and turn him going." (III.iii.34). This would mean the plebeians knew he wasn't a conspirator, but still killed him. Why
To the Second Question->The conspirators probably were in rage mode, so they didn't care who they killed they just wanted blood and the ones to be punished, be punished. Also they were probably so enraged that it didn't matter who they killed.
DeleteI am very confused about what is happening in lines 57-104. Who is Publius Cimber and why does Brutus state, "Desiring thee that Publius Cimber may/Have an immediate freedom of repeal"? (III.I. 57-59)
ReplyDeleteAlso, I understand that the Roman mob wants to kill of all of the conspirators but didn't they realize that Cinna, the poet didn't look like Cinna the senator? Did they just kill the poet because he and the senator shared the same name?
to question 1, part 1-> First, Metellus Cimber kneels and puts his petition to Caesar. But Caesar refuses his request. Metellus Cimber's brother, also known as Publius Cimber, will remain banished. Metellus tries again, and Brutus joins him in his plea, to Caesar's surprise. Then Cassius kneels and joins the appeal to Caesar. But Caesar remains unmoved, declaring that he is as constant as the north star. He prides himself on being unbending.
Deleteto the second question, i believe this act of murder was a way of warning the conspirators that the plebeians were serious about killing them. Poor Cinna the poet...
Delete1. I've noticed that many people, like the Plebeians, are easily persuaded throughout the play. This is also true for Caesar himself. Why does Shakespeare make the characters so gullible? Does this just help get to the point of what character wants to say?
ReplyDelete2. In III.ii.254-266, Mark Antony tells the plebeians about Caesars will. Did Caesar actually make a will, or did Mark Antony make it up to get support? Also, if Caesar DID make a will, did he really say to leave all of "...his walks, his private arbors, and new-planted orchards, on this side Tiber...to your heirs forever..." (III.ii.261-264) for the plebeians?
In the beginning of Scene 3, Act 1, Brutus suggests that he did not do any wrong. He even tells the fellow conspirators to dip their hands in Caesar's blood. What does this signify?
ReplyDeleteQuestion 2: Cinna notes, "Liberty! Freedom! Tyranny is dead! Run hence, proclaim, cry it about the streets" and Cassius said, "Some to the common pulpits, and cry out, Liberty, freedom, and enfranchisement!”
With a note under these statements, "Confusion. Exeunt some plebians and senators", does this mean the conspiracy only reflects the opinions of the conspirators or as the population as a whole? However, later the plebeians follow what the conspirators say.
Frishta A.
ReplyDeleteWhat got me really thinking from Act 3 Scene 2 from lines 40 to line 276 was the fact that during Caesars funeral Brutus speaks first to prevent any misunderstanding from the people of Rome as to why Caesar had died. But then we see Anthony speaking, since Brutus was there during the beginning of the funeral and leaves after his speech, I am just surprised how all the conspirators left Anthony alone to speak to the public. Wasn't Cassius doubting Anthony? Shouldn't he have left someone to keep an eye so that Anthony won't say things against their actions and stop Anthony? For a group of power hungry men whom are known for governing Rome this does not make sense?
III.i.115 BRUTUS
ReplyDelete"Grant that, and then is death a benefit.
So are we Caesar’s friends, that have abridged
His time of fearing death. Stoop, Romans, stoop,
And let us bathe our hands in Caesar’s blood
Up to the elbows, and besmear our swords.
Then walk we forth, even to the marketplace,
And waving our red weapons o'er our heads
Let’s all cry, “Peace, freedom, and liberty!”
Did the conspirators really do Caesar a favor? Or would Caesar have preferred to fear death and yet rule Rome as an empire?
In III.ii.50, why are the Plebians so easily convinced? Do they truly support what they say?
I felt that a shocking moment was when the First Plebian asked "As a friend or an enemy?" And Cinna answered "friend" without any hesitation. I think Cinna is a very respectful person that attends Caesar's funeral. (III.iii.20)
One question i have is that during scene 2, why does Brutus and the other conspirators take the risk of allowing Antony to speak at Caesars funeral? Antony had been very loyal to Caesar, so Antony's speech was sort of expected....
ReplyDeleteAnother question i have that also pertains to Antony's speech was " Why is the crowd more persuaded by Antony's speech than Brutus's speech?" Is not Brutus a more respected and well known figure? Why did the crowd listen to Antony instead of Brutus?
In III.ii.14-36 Brutus explains that he kills Caesar because he loves Rome more than Caesar. He compliments Caesar, saying he was a brave and honorable man, but kills him for his ambition. What are Brutus' true views of Caesar? How do the Plebeians respond to his speech?
ReplyDeleteAnyone else find it humorous when the plebeians take Cinna the poet away at the end of Act 3 Scene 3 because they confused him for Cinna the conspirator?
I also found it humorous when the plebeians took Cinna the poet away. They were so caught up in their rage over Caesar's death, they only paid attention to his name, not who he was.
DeleteAn Ah-HA moment I had was when the plebeians carried away Cinna the poet. This made me realize the impact Mark Antony's speech had on them. They were willing to take away an innocent person just because his name was the same as one of the conspirators.
ReplyDeletehey, Mr. Shellhase , i am posting this on behalf of jessan, as he is unable to post it his response for some reason.
ReplyDeleteQuestions / Comments
- 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.
- 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 did the angered mob of plebeians kill Cinna the poet even though he insisted that he was a different Cinna and that he just shared the same name with the other Cinna which was one of the conspirators?
ReplyDeleteAct 3 Scene 3
FIRST CITIZEN.
Tear him to pieces! he's a conspirator.
CINNA.
I am Cinna the poet, I am Cinna the poet.
FOURTH CITIZEN.
Tear him for his bad verses, tear him for his bad verses.
CINNA.
I am not Cinna the conspirator.
FOURTH CITIZEN.
It is no matter, his name's Cinna; pluck but his
name out of his heart, and turn him going.
2) I noticed quite a lot of comments regarding Antony's speech after the death of Caesar and I wanted to add to to the question as to why Brutus had let Antony to continue to speak after seeing the crowd's reaction to his speech. Cassius was right in the first place of not letting Antony address the crowd but couldn't they have stopped him mid-speech?
i think this scene was written by Shakespeare to show the audience that during the next two acts of the play, the plebeians will support the formation of a chaotic atmosphere (politically) in Rome.
Delete1) Why are the people portrayed as ignorant brutes? Is this a way to tell the audience the flaws of a republic?
ReplyDelete2) "Then fall, Caesar" 3.i.85 Is this line part of the dialogue or is it a stage direction?
3) Why didn't Antony kill Brutus (or the other conspirators) when he had the chance? Did he think that that this would cause confusion among the people of Rome?
Despite everyone's comments and questions about the Roman mob and such; I thought back to the in-class essay we wrote a while ago when I read Act III.
ReplyDeleteWere Brutus and the conspirators actually considered bad guys if they believed what they were doing was the right thing and not considered to be murdered (before they actually killed Caesar)?
I also have the same question as some people: why are the plebeians so easily swayed and gullible?
Brutus also contradicts his thoughts multiple times when the story is reaching towards the death of Caesar. For example, in scene 1, Brutus calls Caesar his friend but then Brutus says he is "no worthier than dust"(III.i.129).
Why do the Plebeians get easily convinced?
ReplyDeleteWhy do they seem so Credulous?
Popilius: "I wish your enterprise today may thrive" (III.i.14)
ReplyDeleteThis quote made me wonder if Popilius really did know about the conspiracy against Caesar even though he didn't say anything to Caesar. Even if Popilius did not know about the conspiracy, what did he mean by this? And does Popilius really know about the conspiracy?
In Act 3 Scene 2, what are the differences between Brutus's speech and Antony's speech to the pleibeians? Which speech is more effective towards the pleibeians and why?
Antony says "...let me not stir you up To such a sudden flood of mutiny." (III.ii.222-223) and he also says "I am no orator, as Brutus is..." (III.ii. 229)Antony seems to be contradicting himself because he is trying to stir up a mutiny just by the use of his words. Was this his intention?
In Act 3 Scene 3, why do the pleibeians kill Cinna the Poet when he declares that he isn't Cinna the conspirator?
A question i had was, why is Shakespeare so vague with the timing of the scene. he makes it seem as if the events happen quickly, Caesar's death, Anthony's return after rather quickly from his home to the senate house. it would make sense if the events happened over a couple of hours but, it seemed more like 15 minutes.
ReplyDeleteTo answer the question about who led Caesar's murder, i believe its Brutus because he gave the other senators reassurance with his power. i think having Brutus on their side was one of the driving forces that made them follow through with the conspiracy.
A question I had was about the plebians. Why did it seem like they were so confused? They killed the wrong person, Cinna the poet, why didn't they kill the conspirator Cinna?
ReplyDeleteAs I read Act III, I originally thought Cinna the Poet and Cinna the Conspirator were the same. Since he's a conspirator, I thought he disguised himself. However, I later realized that they were two different people and that the crowd was killing an innocent person. Why? Also, even though Rome is in chaos now isn't this still a crime to be punished for?
ReplyDeleteIn Act III, Scene i had wondered what Caesar meant in lines 64-68 when he said, "I could be well moved, if I were as you. If I could pray to move, prayers would move me. But I am constant as the Northern Star, Of whose true fixed and resting quality There is no fellow in the firmament." Would I be correct in saying that Caesar considered himself to never be able to be moved because of his power (even though he is killed in the next scene)?
ReplyDelete1) Why does the Soothsayer's last line sound more like gliating than a warning?
ReplyDelete2) How did people, like Artemidorus, find out about the conspiracy? Why are they agreeing with the other conspirators?
3) Why did Caesar stop holding back when he realized tgat Brutus was one of his attackers?
4) Why does Brutus trust Antony, while Cassius does not?
5) Why does Brutus leave after letting Antony make his speech?
ok for your second question its because of the 3 conditions cassius and brutus gave Antony. He cannot say anything bad about them so he keeps saying honorable men in his speech so he is following the guidelines and the plebeians are not portrayed as gullible. When you read it he keeps them frustrated with teasing them with topics they dont know about. which makes them curious and angry. to really make them angry to get in the mob against brutus he starts to bring up a will and say how caesar is not ambitious (evil more less) he wanted to set you free in the will he wrote. So ,pretty much i hope that answers your questions
ReplyDeletethis topic was discussed in my class today XD
oh also cassius is manipulative and brutus is actually a good man just gullible. Brutus leaves after his speech bc he is so sure the crowd will be on his side it wont matter what antony says.(but an audience remembers the last one to speak woah debate rules!!)
ReplyDelete