julius caesar william shakespeare essay

Website navigation

Julius Caesar - Entire Play

Download julius caesar.

Last updated: Fri, Jul 31, 2015

• PDF Download as PDF
• DOC (for MS Word, Apple Pages, Open Office, etc.) without line numbers Download as DOC (for MS Word, Apple Pages, Open Office, etc.) without line numbers
• DOC (for MS Word, Apple Pages, Open Office, etc.) with line numbers Download as DOC (for MS Word, Apple Pages, Open Office, etc.) with line numbers
• HTML Download as HTML
• TXT Download as TXT
• XML Download as XML
• TEISimple XML (annotated with MorphAdorner for part-of-speech analysis) Download as TEISimple XML (annotated with MorphAdorner for part-of-speech analysis)

Navigate this work

Caesar’s assassination is just the halfway point of Julius Caesar . The first part of the play leads to his death; the second portrays the consequences. As the action begins, Rome prepares for Caesar’s triumphal entrance. Brutus, Caesar’s friend and ally, fears that Caesar will become king, destroying the republic. Cassius and others convince Brutus to join a conspiracy to kill Caesar.

On the day of the assassination, Caesar plans to stay home at the urging of his wife, Calphurnia. A conspirator, Decius Brutus, persuades him to go to the Senate with the other conspirators and his friend, Mark Antony. At the Senate, the conspirators stab Caesar to death. Antony uses a funeral oration to turn the citizens of Rome against them. Brutus and Cassius escape as Antony joins forces with Octavius Caesar.

Encamped with their armies, Brutus and Cassius quarrel, then agree to march on Antony and Octavius. In the battle which follows, Cassius, misled by erroneous reports of loss, persuades a slave to kill him; Brutus’s army is defeated. Brutus commits suicide, praised by Antony as “the noblest Roman of them all.”

Stay connected

Find out what’s on, read our latest stories, and learn how you can get involved.

William Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” Essay

Introduction, plot development, works cited.

Julius Caesar is probably one of the most referenced works by Shakespeare; it depicts actualities drawn upon the events in the Roman Empire. According to Wyke (4), the play explores the dramatic structure of Julius Caesar’s ambition to take to the throne of the Roman Empire. The drama introduces Julius Caesar as a man with unyielding ambition to the throne, having fought for the good of the nation. Although regarded by many pundits as a hero, Julius Caesar is equally facing opposition to ascend to Roman leadership, and there is a hatched conspiracy to assassinate him (Taylor 301). Tragic events permeate the plot and literary scholars refer to Julius Caesar as a tragedy itself.

After a successful war that saw the killing of Pompey, Caesar returns to Rome to proclaim his Kingship. There is pure irony as a community projects itself to have more regard for an individual than a nation. The culminating events are tense; the nation is appalled, and something has to be done to neutralize the situation. Caesar is a national figure although there is clear polarization in the senate to stop his ascendancy. Overall, Caesar seems to have greater opportunities of ascending to Kinship (Wyke 5).

Despite great opportunity that Caesar wields, Cassius is championing forces to halt Caesar’s ascendancy. Cassius aligns his team and convinces Brutus to be part of this plot. The opposition clout against Caesar thinks he will dominate Rome and subsequently institute tyranny under his watch. Brutus is fronted as the best candidate to face off with Caesar in a duel. Brutus is probably aware of the personal sacrifices and the patriotic commitments that Caesar has made to Rome. Brutus ignores calls to challenge Caesar, and affirms that the nation is greater that all individuals (Taylor 303). The conspirators plot to assassinate Caesar was taken aback by Brutus refusal to challenge Caesar. In the end, Caesar is killed thrashing the nation into panic.

Antony steals an opportunity to make a strong statement in a keynote speech during Caesar’s burial. He, particularly, registers his disgust to the traitors for the wrongs they have done both to Caesar and to the nation. His speech, according to Taylor (305), arouses the nation, making the citizens come out to the streets to protest Caesar’s killing. Antony’s remarks further point a finger at Brutus and Cassius who are jointly suspected to have a hand in the King’s assassination (Taylor 304).

Antony, nonetheless, betrays Brutus and Cassius who confide in him to keep their plot secret. Consequently, Brutus and Cassius flee the city while Antony gets the support of Octavius and Lepidus. Brutus and Cassius decide not to go back to Rome for there lays the wrath of the citizens in their actions. However, despite the title of the play, Brutus and Cassius suffice as the tragic characters due to their conspiracy for personal gains that plunge the country into abject civil war and utter desperation.

Julius Caesar is a replica of what happened in the Roman Empire. It is a confirmation of Shakespeare’s tendency to revise history through drama. In addition, it shows how conspiracy plays out in politics, and how death is the reward of all human ills. Brutus and Cassius commit suicide when they are aware that they can no longer subdue Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus whose firm grip on power is unwavering. Antony seems to have a brighter future in the yet to be established Rome. Despite its historic overtones, Julius Caesar is a tragedy of grand proportions.

Taylor, Myron. “Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar and the Irony of History.” Shakespeare Quarterly 24.3 (1973): 301–308. Print.

Wyke, Maria. Julius Caesar in western culture . Oxford, England: Blackwell, 2006. Print.

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2023, October 31). William Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar". https://ivypanda.com/essays/william-shakespeares-julius-caesar/

"William Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar"." IvyPanda , 31 Oct. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/william-shakespeares-julius-caesar/.

IvyPanda . (2023) 'William Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar"'. 31 October.

IvyPanda . 2023. "William Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar"." October 31, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/william-shakespeares-julius-caesar/.

1. IvyPanda . "William Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar"." October 31, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/william-shakespeares-julius-caesar/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "William Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar"." October 31, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/william-shakespeares-julius-caesar/.

• The Play "Julius Caesar" by William Shakespeare
• The Battle of Words: Brutus vs. Antony in Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar
• Persuasion, Manipulation, Survival, Success at Work in Shakespeare’s "Julius Caesar"
• Political Impacts of Julius Caesar
• “Antony and Cleopatra” and “Coriolanus” by Shakespeare
• Why Julius Caesar Was Assassinated
• Personality of Julius Caesar and His Effect on Rome
• Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare
• Act 1 Scene III of “The Tragedy of Julius Caesar” Analysis
• Roman History: Caesar Augustus
• Ethical Issues in the Novel "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley
• Joseph Conrad’s Novel "Heart of Darkness"
• Iago and Othello Relationships
• Narrator' Role in "Orlando: A Biography" by Virginia Woolf
• The Evolution of Dragons in Fantasy Fiction

'Julius Caesar'- Shakespeare Essay

Julius Caesar, a Roman tragedy was written by William Shakespeare in 1599. It was one of the earliest of Shakespeare’s three Roman history plays. The play is based in real events the assassination of Julius Caesar, the Roman dictator on 15th March 44BC. Although Julius Caesar is set in Rome over 2000 years ago it explore themes that have a contemporary relevance to the Elizabethans. Julius Caesar is murdered and has left no heir or successor. Queen Elizabeth of the Shakespeare time also did not leave an heir to the throne, which caused a lot of confusion for the Elizabethans.

The Elizabethans appreciated the play as it was covering the same situation they were in. Four hundred years before the play was written, the last king of Rome had been removed as he had proved to be like those before him. The Monarchy was replaced by the republic and the Senate took charge. This shows how easy it is to get dispose of rulers who become to powerful and tyrannical.

Brutus and Mark Antony are the primary sources of the plays plot. The play is tightly constructed. It establishes the dramatic problem of alarm of Julius Caesar’s ambition to become “king” or dictator.

In the very first scene Caesar has become so powerful and liked by the Senate and the people of Rome that it is likely he will be declared king. The Republicans however do not like this idea of him becoming king, as their republic, a system of government with a careful balance of power may be at threat; so a group of conspirators (Cassius, Casca, Trebonia, Caisus Ligarius, Decius Brutus, Metlus Cimber, Cinna and Caesars great friend Brutus).

Proficient in: Julius Caesar

“ Really polite, and a great writer! Task done as described and better, responded to all my questions promptly too! ”

The two characters Brutus and Mark Antony (who was not part of the conspiracy) both speak at Caesars funeral.

Each had his own reason and purpose for doing so. Both speeches had their own addressing the crowd as well as differing styles. Therefore, differing effects on the crowd as a result of their differing styles and techniques. Brutus was first to speak. If the play was staged he and the conspirators would approach the stand with their hands dripping in Caesars blood, creating a victorious effect. Brutus approaches the crowd by stating his reasons for killing Caesar. He explains to the crowd that Caesar was removed due to his ambition and that if he were to become king, Rome would be destroyed.

Brutus speaks in ‘prose’ (lower class language) so that he is able to speak and communicate with the crowd properly. He begins his speech with ‘Romans, countrymen, and lovers’; this shows he loved Rome more and addressed them a Romans first because it was more important to him, it shows he is patriotic. His reason for killing Caesar was not because he did not love him, but because he lived Rome more. He says: ‘Brutus rose against Caesar, that is my answer: Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more’ (Act 3 scene 2 lines 21-22)

This quote basically proves and summarises Brutus’ point to his speech. His speech was very formal, and it seems that all of his sentences were balanced. Although Brutus did a very good job in explaining to the crowd that murdering Caesar was for the good of Rome, he still hadn’t won them over. Brutus explained that he loved Caesar and cared for him but his death was for the good of Rome. ‘As Caesar loved me, I weep for him’ Brutus explains here that he still cared for him and he also claimed that Caesar was not good for Rome because he was ambitious.

Brutus came into a confused and curios crowd. After he explained himself and his purpose, the people were reluctant to believe him, however they were convinced for only a short time. Mark Antony makes a speech after Brutus. He has a difficult task of speaking to a hostile crowd outside the Roman Parliament where Caesar was stabbed to death. Anatony’s speeches are very different from Brutus’ and are far more subtle than Brutus’. They were full of clever techniques to manipulate the audience. Brutus spoke to the crowds about honour, patriotism and history.

Antony’s speeches were more emotional and by being emotional it manages to be more powerful and have a greater impact on the crowd. Julius Caesar and Antony were very close friends; and were always seen together. At the Feast of Luperculia Caesar and told Antony to touch Calpurnia during the race and Antony replied ‘I shall remember: when Caesar says, ‘do this’, it is perform’d’. This shows that Antony has great love for Caesar and Caesar also trusts Antony. Antony is much angered at Caesars death but skilfully hides his true feelings from the conspirators.

When he was with Brutus and the conspirators he said he is does not doubt them and believes their reason for killing Caesar and he also shakes hands with each one of the conspirators. Antony vows to make the conspirators pay for the death of Caesar and plans to cause havoc and chaos and will not stop until the conspirators are killed and Caesar death is fully avenged. ‘Domestic fury and fierce civil strife shall cumber all the parts of Italy’ (Act 3 scene 2, lines 263-264) Caesars death is then followed by a time of confusion and bloodshed as the Republicans and Antonys supporters struggle for power.

There are many questions that can be asked: what is best for ordinary people? Who will be the next heir, as Caesar has not left one? The audience of Shakespeare’s time would be asking themselves these same questions as Queen Elizabeth I was coming to the end of her reign. There was an argument about who the successor would be, as she had no children. It was the same with Julius Caesar. Who would be the heir Mark Antony or Brutus? Antony uses his opportunity to make as speech at Caesars funeral to manipulate the crowds way of thinking. He enters the scene with Caesars body, creating a dramatic effect.

He starts his speech with ‘friends, Roman, countrymen’ because he wants to come to them as a friend rather than a ruler trying to gain power and by doing this he puts them at ease. He speaks in blank verse and tries to flatter the crowd. He then continues by saying that he has come ‘to bury Caesar’ and ‘not to praise him’ so he can ease in praises of Caesar without the crowd stopping him. It also grabs the attention of the crowd who thought he would praise Caesar and not speak ill of Brutus. He starts off by saying negative things about Caesar but slowly and skilfully begins to talk about his positive side more.

The noble Brutus hath told you Caesar was ambitious ……. For Brutus is an honourable man. ‘ – Antony sound very sincere when he says this. He repeats this statement three more times which becomes increasingly sarcastic, he finishes with, “yet Brutus says he was ambitious, and sure he was an honourable man. ” Since people were persuaded by Brutus’ speech, Antony could not insult Brutus’ honesty. Antony says, “I speak not to disprove what Brutus spoke”, but that is exactly what he does. Antony uses emotional words and many dramatic devises to win over the crowds.

He pretends that he is no good at public speaking. This creates sympathy for him, as the crowd will think it was hard for him to speak to them. ‘For I have neither wit, nor words, nor worth. Action, nor utterance, nor the power of speech’ (Act 3 scene 2, line 118-119) As a condition for doing the speech, he is not allowed to blame the conspirators; Antony gets round this by subtly changing meanings of words such as ‘honourable’. Honourable is a very strong word and it is Brutus’ best quality. Antony degrades this word by making a point that Caesar was not ambitious and then adds that Brutus was a honourable man.

This effect creates doubt in the audiences mind. He uses techniques like sarcasm. Antony talks about Caesar very passionately to give the impression that Caesar is a hero and causes the crowd to think about how they lost such a great man. ” He hath brought many captives home to Rome, Whose ransoms did the general coffers fill. Did this in Caesar seem ambitious? ” (Act 3 scene 3, lines86-88) This quote tells us the audience that Caesar brought captives and money, which he gave to the public funds. Caesar wanted nothing but the best for the people of Rome.

Antony wants to show that Caesar was not ambitious by providing four reasons as evidence. These are: * He brought many prisoners whose ransoms filled the treasury. This makes the audience realise that what ever Caesar done was for Rome * When the poor cried Caesar wept in sympathy. This shows that Caesar was concerned about the citizens and the welfare of Rome, it also shows that Caesar was emotionally weak, but ambition should be made of sterner stuff. * When Caesar denied the crown three times. I f Caesar wanted to be come king and if he was ambitious, why didn’t he take the crown at the feast? The will Caesar left for the people.

If Caesar was ambitious and greedy why did he leave the people of Rome 75 Drachmas and his private walks? Antony deals wit Caesars worst point, his desire to become king of Rome by making you believe he denied the crown three times at the feast of Lupercal because he had no desire to become king. The use of Caesars will as a stage prop arouses a lot of attention from the crowd. He tells the crowd about it but then deliberately changes to another point. By using this delaying tactic he keeps the crowds attention. He continuously prolongs them and builds up a climax.

He also asks the crowds permission to read the will ‘You compel me then to read the will? ‘- This technique makes the crowds think that he is a helpless man and he has no power over anything. It makes the crowds believe they are telling him what to do. After mentioning the will he tells the crowd to gather round Caesar’s body. He uses Caesars body as a tool of manipulation. This creates a very dramatic effect as the crowd see what the mighty Caesar has been reduced to. Antony continuously uses repetition and questions Brutus’ honour. He uses many dramatic devices, which Brutus doesn’t use.

By the end of his speeches the crowd are against Brutus. This shows that the crowds are not strong in their convictions and Antony is able to fickle the crowds easily. Antony uses a dramatic effect on the people, first by entering the stage with the body if Caesar and then at the end stating his heart is still with the body of Caesar, ending his speech weeping. The effect of Antony showing the crowds Caesars cloak, full of knife gnashes, is very dramatic and emotional. He talks of blood to move the citizens to pity and anger. He describes the killing as ‘brutal’ and unforgivable.

He is able to get the people to question the killing of Caesar. The crowd begin to doubt Brutus. “If you have tears, prepare to shed them now” (Act 3 scene 2, line 167) Antony tells them they will be overcome with emotion. By mentioning the bloody cloak he makes it more visual and brutal. He mentions the cloak deliberately and tells us about the first time he wore the cloak, when he defeated the Nervii, as Caesar was known for his skill at war. He reminded them what Caesar had done for them. Antony opens the appeal for sympathy by using emotive words and exaggeration, which make you feel sorry for him.

He tells the crowd about the first time Caesar wore the garment in which he defeated the Nervii, but then dramatically starts telling the audience about the rips in the torn and bloody piece of cloth. “That day he overcame the Nervii. Look in this place ran Cassius’ dagger through” (Act 3 scene 2, lines 171-172) Antony continuously uses emotive language and devices to steer the crowds. While speaking he stops and says: … “Bear with me. My heart is still in the coffin there with Caesar” (Act 3 scene 2, lines 103-104) This shows how distraught he is that he has to stop before continuing.

This gives time for the crowd to stop and observe his behaviour. The crowd begin to question themselves and are deeply affected by his emotion; and when people are emotional they cannot think rational. Antony pretends to know who made which wound and pretends to recall each little detail, which causes the audience to become angry and pitiful. He makes it up in order to make it seem more barbaric. “Look, in this place ran Cassius’ dagger through: See what a rent the envious Casca made” (Act 3 scene 2, lines 172-174) Antony gives a very detailed account of when Brutus stabbed Caesar.

The image of blood stir the crowds up and it makes you think about inhumane way Caesar was killed. He gives a detailed account of when Caesar stabbed him so the crowds realise what a traitor he was and how he rose against his friend because of jealousy. “Mark how the blood of Caesar follow’d it, As running out of doors, to e resolv’d If Brutus so unkindly knock’d or no” (Act 3 scene 2, line 176-178) At this point the crowd is so emotional that Antony no linger needs to use the word ‘honourable’ after criticizing Brutus.

Antony also says in his speech: “For Brutus, as you know, was Caesars angel. He says this to show that Caesar loved him greatly and trusted him. He was betrayed by his best friend, Brutus; He was a traitor. ‘Traitor’ is a very strong word. The Elizabethans believed that if someone was put in power, God put them there and no one could remove them. If you tried to remove them you were classified as a traitor, which was the worst thing for them. All of these tricks used by Antony were successful and were able to steer the crowds to think that Brutus and the conspirators were nothing but brutal murderers and they killed Caesar due to jealousy.

After showing the crowd Caesars cloak, Antony removes it showing the disfigured corpse of Caesar. The crowds’ horror and anger reaches its highest climax and the crowd want revenge Antony again pretends to know who made which stab in Caesars body. He talks about blood, which again causes the crowd to become emotional and pitiful. “O woeful day! O traitors! Villains” (Lines 198-199) This quote shows that Antony was successful in his aims. He has the crowd so wound up and fumed with anger they will do what Antony could not do. Antony uses words such as “Good friend, sweet friends” to make the crowd feel at ease and make them trusted.

He tells them he is a friend and means no harm. Antony is easily able to fickle the crowd as they are not strong in there convictions. Antony is able to prove to the audience that the conspirators are not honourable, but were heartless butchers. “They who have done this deed are honourable. ” (Line 209) He also exaggerates and lies in his speeches. He says “I have neither wit, nor words, or worth. ” These are used to create sympathy for himself. Antony has these qualities and proves it by using them. “But were I Brutus And Brutus Antony, there were an Antony Would ruffle up your spirits. (Lines 223-225)

Here Antony tries to say that Brutus would cause a riot and tell them lies, but he has done this himself. This also shows how hypocritical Antony is and the amount of lies he tells to sway the crowds to believe him. The use of rhetorical devises and persuasive language in Antony’s speeches create great emphasis on the innocence of Caesar. The repetition of the word ‘ambitious’ keeps the reader wondering if Antony is correct, that Caesar was murdered for no reason except treason. Brutus’ speech involved taking a defensive approach, leaving people to their own conclusions.

However, Antony takes a prosecuting approach against Brutus, so sneaky that you don’t even notice it. Antony’s examples give him an advantage over Brutus because he backs up his statements with examples while Brutus leaves his statements open-ended. The people find it easier to accept Antony, an emotional and sincere speaker, than Brutus who appears to be arrogant and forceful. Antony talks about Brutus first and slowly talks about how bad he is while he is doing this he starts talking about the noble Caesar. He uses many positive adjectives such as ‘Mighty Caesar, Great Caesar, and Noble Caesar’.

He fits them into sentences unnoticeably. Antony has got what he wanted; he has succeeded in his plan to manipulate the crowd. “Now let it work. Mischief, thou art afoot, Take thou what course thou wilt! How now fellow” (Lines 258-259) Antony does not care of the plebs. All he cares about is his success and his ability to avenge Caesars death. The crowds will burn down houses and kill people but he is not worried about that. Antony proves he has been successful when the crowds disperse to look for the conspirators; they come across a poet called Cinna.

They kill him just because he bears the name ‘Cinna’ even though he has no contact with any of the conspirators. These shows how powerfully manipulating his speeches were. The crowds become brutal and blinded by this manipulation. “Revenge! About! Seek! Burn! Fire! Kill! Slay! Let not a traitor live. ” (Lines 202-203) Antony was successful in his aims to manipulate the crowds after the murder of Caesar. He had a hard task of making a speech to an unruly crowd who had been turned against Caesar by Brutus. He easily changed their way of thinking and succeeded in his plan.

I have found that Brutus was honourable but was blinded by his love for Rome and was also easily persuaded by Cassius and the conspirators. He did not think of the consequences and though that the people of Rome would see through his eyes and believe that this was his true reason for killing Caesar. However, Antony was very manipulative and persuasive in changing thee views of the crowd easily. His repetition, positive adjectives, rhetorical questions, sarcasm and pauses all combined to have a very great impact on his speeches, which influenced the crowds.

There is a contemporary relevance of Antonys’ speeches to how modern politicians influence people to vote for them. Modern politicians promise to do the best for the people i. e. improve healthcare, schooling etc and also promise to right the mistakes of the past leaders. They use persuasive language and say the benefits the people will receive if they will cast their vote towards them. Antony used this technique and told the people of Rome what they had inherited from Caesar, but did they receive anything what Antony told them?

Cite this page

'Julius Caesar'- Shakespeare Essay. (2017, Oct 19). Retrieved from https://paperap.com/paper-on-julius-caesar-shakespeare-essay/

"'Julius Caesar'- Shakespeare Essay." PaperAp.com , 19 Oct 2017, https://paperap.com/paper-on-julius-caesar-shakespeare-essay/

PaperAp.com. (2017). 'Julius Caesar'- Shakespeare Essay . [Online]. Available at: https://paperap.com/paper-on-julius-caesar-shakespeare-essay/ [Accessed: 23 Apr. 2024]

"'Julius Caesar'- Shakespeare Essay." PaperAp.com, Oct 19, 2017. Accessed April 23, 2024. https://paperap.com/paper-on-julius-caesar-shakespeare-essay/

"'Julius Caesar'- Shakespeare Essay," PaperAp.com , 19-Oct-2017. [Online]. Available: https://paperap.com/paper-on-julius-caesar-shakespeare-essay/. [Accessed: 23-Apr-2024]

PaperAp.com. (2017). 'Julius Caesar'- Shakespeare Essay . [Online]. Available at: https://paperap.com/paper-on-julius-caesar-shakespeare-essay/ [Accessed: 23-Apr-2024]

• Caesar Persuaded by Decius in Julius Caesar Pages: 1 (289 words)
• William Shakespeare's Julius Caesar Pages: 8 (2387 words)
• Play by William Shakespeare Julius Caesar Pages: 3 (730 words)
• The Role of Brutus in Julius Caesar, a Play by William Shakespeare Pages: 2 (391 words)
• The Corruption Caused by Power in Julius Caesar a Play by William Shakespeare Pages: 2 (574 words)
• The Power of Brutus' Speech in the Play Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare Pages: 2 (410 words)
• The Purpose of the Parade Scene in Act I of William Shakespeare's Julius Caesar Pages: 3 (652 words)
• The Tragic Hero in Julius Caesar, a Play by William Shakespeare Pages: 6 (1640 words)
• Brutus' Speech in Julius Caesar by Shakespeare Pages: 4 (1162 words)
• Power Hunger in Roman Politics: Julius Caesar by Shakespeare Pages: 2 (518 words)

Julius Caesar William Shakespeare

Julius Caesar literature essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of Julius Caesar.

Julius Caesar Material

• Study Guide
• Lesson Plan

Join Now to View Premium Content

GradeSaver provides access to 2360 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11007 literature essays, 2767 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.

Julius Caesar Essays

Foreshadowing and character development in julius caesar anonymous 9th grade, julius caesar.

Thanks to a literary tool called foreshadowing, readers are not always surprised by important events or plot twists in literature. Foreshadowing is an effective way to hint to readers that a major plot point will happen. In Shakespeare’s tragedy...

The Gender Transformation of Caesar Anonymous

Shakespeare's Julius Caesar opens with the concurrent celebrations of Caesar's defeat of Pompey and the annual fertility festival of Lupercal. The coupling of the two historically separate events each celebrating distinct gender roles dramatically...

Classification of the Main Characters of William Shakespeare's The Tragedy of Julius Caesar Brandon Jones

Although the characters of The Tragedy of Julius Caesar can not be easily classified because of their emotional depth and mental complexity, one can draw certain conclusions about them based on the attributes that they possess. Shakespeare uses...

Shakespeare's Presentation of the Character of Mark Antony in 'Julius Caesar' Katya Hills

We meet the character of Mark Antony three times before Julius Caesar's death, though he speaks little and we do not get much of an indication of his character. Antony fully enters the play exactly halfway through, when he makes a gripping speech,...

Julius Caesar, Act II, Scene 1: A lesson is dramatic effectiveness Christopher Jamieson

Act 2 scene 1 of Julius Caesar, from lines 1-69, is terribly important as it marks a turning point in the play. The two characters appearing are Brutus and his servant, Lucius. Brutus, having had the notion of murdering Caesar planted in his mind...

Self-Deluded Characters in Julius Caesar Kiara Cooper

The main characters in Shakespeare’s Tragedy of Julius Caesar have distorted self-perception, showing throughout the play that they see themselves as actors in a great historical play rather than actual people (Van Laan 139). Brutus, Antony,...

The Power of Rhetoric: Cassius’ Manipulation of Brutus Andrew Ayala

“For who so firm that cannot be seduced?” (1.2.312). Cassius’ muttered soliloquy in William Shakespeare’s The Tragedy of Julius Caesar immediately calls attention to his goal of manipulating people. A man well versed in rhetoric, he puts to good...

Antony's and Brutus' Speeches in Julius Caesar Kenneth Brown 10th Grade

Antony’s speech at Caesar’s funeral in Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar was more effective than Brutus’ because Antony used a multifaceted emotional argument, instead of relying on one assertion, as Brutus had. Because of this, Antony was able to sway...

Drawing Brutus as an Honorable Hero in Julius Caesar Royce Yang 10th Grade

In Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, Caesar is a soon-to-be monarch who is murdered by a group called the Conspirators whose justification for their actions may be debated. Throughout the story, Brutus switches sides several times, starting as Caesar's...

Julius Caesar Literary Analysis Anonymous 10th Grade

In William Shakespeare’s tragic play Julius Caesar, the contrast between honor and power in a leadership position is presented as many individuals work to better Rome with their own ideals of national glory. Brutus and his followers pursue the...

Portia's Powerful Portrayal: Character Analysis Anonymous 11th Grade

After a close look at today’s society, an observer will find that within all healthy relationships, both people are equal partners. Today, this equality is something we believe to be a result of our basic human rights. However, in Shakespearean...

Thy Kingdom Come; Thy Martyrdom: The Situation of Shakespeare’s Caesar as a Parallel of the Death of Christ Marissa Polodna College

Shakespeare’s Caesar in “The Tragedy of Julius Caesar” is often mistaken as being a tyrant. This view comes from the characterization of Caesar through Cassius and Brutus’ eyes. Caesar’s qualities that make him a martyr instead of a tyrant are...

Personal Morality in Julius Caesar and The Prince Anonymous 12th Grade

The Prince by Niccolo Machiavelli and Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare are prime examples of texts which address universal issues in politics that remain relevant throughout time. The distinctive contexts and perspectives of the authors are...

Decius vs. Calpurnia: Argumentation and Caesar's Choice Anonymous 10th Grade

Arguments are the pinnacle of progress, development and change. People with conflicting ideas and beliefs engage in this activity constantly. However, did you know that arguments actually come down to a science? In 4th century B.C.E, Aristotle...

The Use and Acquisition of Authority in Julius Caesar and The Prince Anonymous 12th Grade

A comparative study of two texts reveals context as the primary influence upon the interplay between pragmatism and personality morality in an individual’s pursuit and consolidation of power. Driven by an overarching contextual desire for stable...

Tragic Hero: Julius Caesar, or Brutus? Stefany Ferguson 11th Grade

The title of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar is often criticized, argued that it should be titled Brutus, as Marcus Brutus is the tragic hero. However, the title is appropriate, as Julius Caesar, though insignificant as an actor in the play since he...

The Wives in Julius Caesar Anonymous 9th Grade

The wives of Caesar and Brutus played a very key role in Act II, scenes 1 and 2 in Julius Caesar, by Shakespeare. They both significantly affected their husbands. They had to do something to influence their husbands to prevent them from doing...

The Leadership of Caius Cassius Allison Ingram 10th Grade

Ruling over the Roman Empire from 60 B.C. to the time of his death in 44 B.C., Julius Caesar is one of the most widely recognized historical figures of all time. His legacy was immortalized through the writing of William Shakespeare’s play Julius...

Comparing the power struggles in Shakespearean plays Sally Dukes College

Power struggles are a defining feature in many of William Shakespeare’s stories. Titus Andronicus , Richard III , and Julius Caesar are three prominent examples of such stories, each depicting a powerful protagonist and their conflicts with others...

Using 'old scene[s]' to make new comments: the adaptogenic power of Julius Caesar Anonymous College

Shakespeare is perhaps the best-known name in the world. Naturally so, since his plays have been a part of the canon for a long time, with Julius Caesar among them. There have been thousands of adaptations of Julius Caesar let alone Shakespeare’s...

• All Categories

British Literature

William Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” Essay

Updated: Jul 3rd, 2020

Introduction

Julius Caesar is probably one of the most referenced works by Shakespeare; it depicts actualities drawn upon the events in the Roman Empire. According to Wyke (4), the play explores the dramatic structure of Julius Caesar’s ambition to take to the throne of the Roman Empire. The drama introduces Julius Caesar as a man with unyielding ambition to the throne, having fought for the good of the nation. Although regarded by many pundits as a hero, Julius Caesar is equally facing opposition to ascend to Roman leadership, and there is a hatched conspiracy to assassinate him (Taylor 301). Tragic events permeate the plot and literary scholars refer to Julius Caesar as a tragedy itself.

Plot development

After a successful war that saw the killing of Pompey, Caesar returns to Rome to proclaim his Kingship. There is pure irony as a community projects itself to have more regard for an individual than a nation. The culminating events are tense; the nation is appalled, and something has to be done to neutralize the situation. Caesar is a national figure although there is clear polarization in the senate to stop his ascendancy. Overall, Caesar seems to have greater opportunities of ascending to Kinship (Wyke 5).

Despite great opportunity that Caesar wields, Cassius is championing forces to halt Caesar’s ascendancy. Cassius aligns his team and convinces Brutus to be part of this plot. The opposition clout against Caesar thinks he will dominate Rome and subsequently institute tyranny under his watch. Brutus is fronted as the best candidate to face off with Caesar in a duel. Brutus is probably aware of the personal sacrifices and the patriotic commitments that Caesar has made to Rome. Brutus ignores calls to challenge Caesar, and affirms that the nation is greater that all individuals (Taylor 303). The conspirators plot to assassinate Caesar was taken aback by Brutus refusal to challenge Caesar. In the end, Caesar is killed thrashing the nation into panic.

Antony steals an opportunity to make a strong statement in a keynote speech during Caesar’s burial. He, particularly, registers his disgust to the traitors for the wrongs they have done both to Caesar and to the nation. His speech, according to Taylor (305), arouses the nation, making the citizens come out to the streets to protest Caesar’s killing. Antony’s remarks further point a finger at Brutus and Cassius who are jointly suspected to have a hand in the King’s assassination (Taylor 304).

Antony, nonetheless, betrays Brutus and Cassius who confide in him to keep their plot secret. Consequently, Brutus and Cassius flee the city while Antony gets the support of Octavius and Lepidus. Brutus and Cassius decide not to go back to Rome for there lays the wrath of the citizens in their actions. However, despite the title of the play, Brutus and Cassius suffice as the tragic characters due to their conspiracy for personal gains that plunge the country into abject civil war and utter desperation.

Julius Caesar is a replica of what happened in the Roman Empire. It is a confirmation of Shakespeare’s tendency to revise history through drama. In addition, it shows how conspiracy plays out in politics, and how death is the reward of all human ills. Brutus and Cassius commit suicide when they are aware that they can no longer subdue Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus whose firm grip on power is unwavering. Antony seems to have a brighter future in the yet to be established Rome. Despite its historic overtones, Julius Caesar is a tragedy of grand proportions.

Works Cited

Taylor, Myron. “Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar and the Irony of History.” Shakespeare Quarterly 24.3 (1973): 301–308. Print.

Wyke, Maria. Julius Caesar in western culture. Oxford, England: Blackwell, 2006. Print.

This essay on William Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” was written and submitted by your fellow student. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly.

The election of President Barrack Obama was an indication that the US had finally come of age in as far as eradication of racism is concerned. However, critics argue that […]

Why would we remove a great American classic? We should not remove Huckleberry Finn. However, some people may believe that this novel causes way too many problems to still be […]

Introduction In analyzing and understanding works of literature, one of the critical factors is the concept of point of view. It shapes the readers’ perception of the story, basing on […]

“If it is true that brilliant Achilles is risen beside their ships, then the worse for him if he tries it, since I for my part will not run from […]

Introduction This lecture is a close examination of women liberation during the Cultural Revolution in China. Despite the great suppression that women were subjected to, they stood up against all […]

Duong Thy Huong’s Paradise of the Blind (1988) and Christie Watson’s Tiny Sunbirds, Far Away (2014) explore the difference in morals between tradition and modernity to demonstrate that this constant […]

Updated: Jun 24th, 2018 Canadian literary culture is considered to be rich and famous around the world; and in spite of the fact that some works were sold in a […]

Organizations in the modern world are so concerned with the constant need to improve performance that most of them have little time to work on the moral aspect of their […]

The play is set in the spring of 1946. The city of Verona slowly recovers from the effects the Civil War which engulfed the entire country for nearly two years. […]

Updated: Jul 3rd, 2020 Introduction Julius Caesar is probably one of the most referenced works by Shakespeare; it depicts actualities drawn upon the events in the Roman Empire. According to […]

Home — Essay Samples — Literature — The Tragedy of Julius Caesar — Portrayal OF Arrogance and Ambition of Julius Caesar in William Shakespeare’s Play

Portrayal of Arrogance and Ambition of Julius Caesar in William Shakespeare’s Play

• Categories: Ambition The Tragedy of Julius Caesar William Shakespeare

About this sample

Words: 713 |

Published: Jun 17, 2020

Words: 713 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Dr Jacklynne

Verified writer

• Expert in: Life Literature

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

3 pages / 1598 words

3.5 pages / 1637 words

1 pages / 838 words

1.5 pages / 763 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on The Tragedy of Julius Caesar

William Shakespeare’s play Julius Caesar is filled with omens and supernatural events that foreshadow the tragic fate of the title character. Throughout the play, various characters interpret these omens in different ways, [...]

"Julius Caesar" is a timeless classic that delves into the politics and power struggles of ancient Rome. One of the most iconic scenes in the play is the funeral speech delivered by Mark Antony, which serves as a pivotal moment [...]

Julius Caesar, one of the most iconic figures in history, was assassinated on the Ides of March in 44 BC. The question of whether his assassination was justified has been a topic of debate for centuries. On one hand, some argue [...]

Julius Caesar, the renowned Roman general and statesman, is often remembered for his military conquests and political achievements. However, his influence extended beyond the battlefield and the Senate, as he also had a [...]

Arguments are the pinnacle of progress, development and change. People with conflicting ideas and beliefs engage in this activity constantly. However, did you know that arguments actually come down to a science? In 4th century [...]

Rhetoric, the art of effective communication and persuasion, plays a pivotal role in shaping the course of human history. One of the most memorable examples of this can be found in William Shakespeare's iconic play, Julius [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

The Epic of Beowulf by William Shakespeare

This essay about the hypothetical scenario of William Shakespeare writing Beowulf explores how the Bard’s narrative style and thematic focus might transform the ancient epic. It speculates on the deep psychological exploration of characters like Beowulf and Grendel, suggesting Shakespeare would add layers of internal conflict and moral complexity similar to those found in his own tragic figures. The potential addition of intricate court intrigue and romantic subplots are considered, enhancing the dramatic structure akin to Shakespeare’s famous plays. The essay also imagines how Shakespeare’s use of language, particularly his mastery of iambic pentameter and soliloquies, could bring new dimensions to the storytelling of Beowulf. Overall, the piece serves as a speculative literary analysis that merges two monumental figures of English literature, highlighting their potential to inform and enhance each other’s narrative worlds.

How it works

While it is a widely known fact that William Shakespeare and the epic of Beowulf are separated by several centuries, the thought experiment of Shakespeare writing Beowulf opens fascinating avenues for literary exploration. This theoretical blend of one of the greatest playwrights of the English language and the oldest epic poem in Old English not only highlights their respective literary contributions but also sparks a delightful intermingling of narrative techniques and thematic explorations.

Shakespeare’s works are revered for their deep psychological complexity and keen insight into human nature, while Beowulf is celebrated for its heroic narrative and profound moral questions.

Imagining a Shakespearean version of Beowulf involves a reinterpretation of the characters and themes through the Elizabethan lens, replete with rich dialogues and a dramatic structure that Shakespeare mastered so well.

In this alternate version, one could envision Beowulf not merely as a hero battling monsters but as a character torn by internal conflicts and existential dilemmas, much like Hamlet or Macbeth. Shakespeare might have delved into Beowulf’s psyche, exploring his fears, ambitions, and motivations in greater depth than the original epic’s straightforward narrative allows. This approach could have transformed Grendel from a mere embodiment of evil into a more complex antagonist, perhaps a tragic figure cursed by fate, akin to King Lear’s misunderstood intentions or Othello’s manipulated honor.

Moreover, Shakespeare’s penchant for intricate plots and subplots could have added layers of court intrigue and political maneuvering to the story of Beowulf . Consider the potential dynamics in Heorot, with its hall politics mirroring the courtly machinations found in King Lear or Julius Caesar . The addition of a romantic subplot, potentially involving Beowulf and a high-born lady of the Danish court, would not be out of place in Shakespeare’s dramatic universe, providing personal stakes that heighten the epic’s dramatic tension.

Thematically, Shakespeare might have emphasized the themes of legacy and the haunting presence of the past, which are prevalent in both Beowulf and Shakespeare’s own works. The bard’s Beowulf could have been portrayed as a man deeply conscious of his heroic lineage and burdened by the expectation to surpass his ancestors, echoing the dilemmas faced by Prince Hal in Henry IV .

In terms of language, one could imagine the rich, eloquent speeches that Shakespeare would craft for Beowulf, blending the muscularity of Old English alliteration with the rhythmic beauty of iambic pentameter. The famous soliloquies could provide Beowulf moments of introspection, revealing his innermost thoughts and fears to the audience, a technique that Shakespeare used to great effect with his own characters.

Ultimately, while William Shakespeare never wrote Beowulf , and the two belong to distinctly different epochs and literary traditions, the exercise of merging these two giants of English literature offers a unique perspective on both. It not only serves to appreciate their individual genius but also underscores the universal themes and timeless nature of human conflicts and heroism that transcend specific historical or cultural contexts.

This imaginative exploration serves as a testament to the enduring power of these canonical works and their capacity to inspire generations of writers and thinkers. It reminds us that literature is a living, evolving entity, always open to reinterpretation and rediscovery.

Cite this page

The Epic Of Beowulf By William Shakespeare. (2024, Apr 22). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/the-epic-of-beowulf-by-william-shakespeare/

"The Epic Of Beowulf By William Shakespeare." PapersOwl.com , 22 Apr 2024, https://papersowl.com/examples/the-epic-of-beowulf-by-william-shakespeare/

PapersOwl.com. (2024). The Epic Of Beowulf By William Shakespeare . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/the-epic-of-beowulf-by-william-shakespeare/ [Accessed: 23 Apr. 2024]

"The Epic Of Beowulf By William Shakespeare." PapersOwl.com, Apr 22, 2024. Accessed April 23, 2024. https://papersowl.com/examples/the-epic-of-beowulf-by-william-shakespeare/

"The Epic Of Beowulf By William Shakespeare," PapersOwl.com , 22-Apr-2024. [Online]. Available: https://papersowl.com/examples/the-epic-of-beowulf-by-william-shakespeare/. [Accessed: 23-Apr-2024]

PapersOwl.com. (2024). The Epic Of Beowulf By William Shakespeare . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/the-epic-of-beowulf-by-william-shakespeare/ [Accessed: 23-Apr-2024]

Don't let plagiarism ruin your grade

Hire a writer to get a unique paper crafted to your needs.

Our writers will help you fix any mistakes and get an A+!

Please check your inbox.

You can order an original essay written according to your instructions.

Trusted by over 1 million students worldwide

1. Tell Us Your Requirements

2. Pick your perfect writer

3. Get Your Paper and Pay

Hi! I'm Amy, your personal assistant!

Don't know where to start? Give me your paper requirements and I connect you to an academic expert.

short deadlines

100% Plagiarism-Free

Certified writers