I have read this play at least five times since first encountering it in the 10th grade, and I have enjoyed it more each time.

The play focuses on the assassination of Julius Caesar in the Roman Senate and the campaign by Marc Antony, Octavius (Augustus), and Lepidus to punish the assassins. It contains some of William Shakespeare's best poetry and most astute characterizations.

For example, the famous lines: "There is a tide in the affairs of men Which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune; Omitted, all the voyage of their life Is bound in shallows and in miseries. On such a full sea are we now afloat, And we must take the current when it serves Or lose our ventures."

I've always favored the Folger Shakespeare Library editions published by Simon & Schuster. They are extremely approachable, which is a significant advantage considering the intricacies of Elizabethan English.

These editions make it easier for modern readers to understand and appreciate the genius of Shakespeare's works.

Whether you're a student, a literature enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a great read, this play is definitely worth checking out.

It offers a captivating story, beautiful language, and profound insights into human nature.

So, pick up a copy of this play and immerse yourself in the world of Shakespeare.

You won't be disappointed.

The 168th book of 2020 is about Julius Caesar.

It's a good play, although it has some strange historical inaccuracies. For example, the striking of clocks, which the Romans surely didn't have. And there are Romans in hats! Maybe it's not completely wrong, but have you ever seen a Roman depicted in a hat that isn't a helmet?

Shakespeare omits certain factors to enhance the play, and I think it works. The dates of events seem to be reshuffled a bit, and Octavius' adoption and name-changing are removed, probably to make it simpler. Changing his name to Octavian halfway through is an unnecessary detail. I'm not a huge Shakespeare fan, nor do I really enjoy reading plays, but I did like the second half of this one. The beginning was rather slow and dull, but once Caesar was murdered (which happened earlier than I expected), my enjoyment increased. Mark Anthony's speech is quite brilliant, I must admit. As for the plot, well, we know what happens, don't we? I spent a year studying Cicero and his body of work, so I was glad to see his (brief) appearance.

Perhaps I'll add some more thoughts to this soon.

JULIO CÉSAR by Shakespeare

ANTONIO: And now, let them go alone! Destruction, you are already on the march; take the course you prefer.

This is a great work. It would almost be a 5-point masterpiece if it weren't for the historical liberties and especially for the overly benevolent role given to Brutus. It is definitely a very well-written play that recreates the main events around the destiny of Julius Caesar with a staggering number of characters who fit together like in a perfect jigsaw puzzle. The story begins when Julius Caesar, after defeating and killing (albeit not directly) Pompey, is tempted by his own will and by some senators to be crowned king of Rome. This is something that senator Brutus and Cassius are not willing to allow. Brutus is the character we remember in Dante's Inferno along with his friend Cassius. Despite being a "son" according to tradition, he will be involved in the plot.

The actions are very realistic and above all thrilling. I liked how the various characters incite Brutus and even Caesar with praise to achieve their interests. The excellent use of oratory by Antonio with the Roman people. The stage representation must be phenomenal. The constant omens and the portentous visions of phenomena announcing a great tragedy. There is always action, suspicion, betrayal, hope, fear, and comradeship throughout this entire piece. Brutus and Cassius are the ones who mostly have all the drama, but also Mark Antony and Octavian himself are masterfully portrayed.

It's a pity that, as I commented, Antonio seems too interested and at times cowardly. I think too much merit is given to the conspirators. Even though I assume Shakespeare's approach, their real heroism doesn't quite convince me. That's why I didn't like it as much, although it is still among my favorites. It is important to emphasize that the actions that take place in such a short time actually occurred over several months, and this is one of the reasons why plays should not be taken exactly as they are represented, just like in "Romeo and Juliet" where everything seems to happen in a few days. It has given me an immense desire to read "Antony and Cleopatra" and of course review the Roman history of this part to get a more realistic idea.

Another wonderful Shakespeare play!!!

Shakespeare's works are truly a treasure trove of literary masterpieces. Each play is a unique exploration of human nature, emotions, and the complexities of life.

This particular play, which I have just experienced, is no exception. The story unfolds with a captivating plot that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

The characters are vividly drawn, with their own distinct personalities and motives. The dialogue is rich and poetic, filled with profound insights and beautiful language.

I can't wait to write a full review and share my thoughts and impressions with others. This play is definitely one that will stay with me for a long time and be remembered as a classic of the stage.

Stay tuned for the full review!!!

This is not so much a review as it is a reflection. I believe this play is so well-known that a review might seem unnecessary. It is the only Shakespeare work that evokes childhood memories for me. At a young age, I learned two phrases from this play through my mother. The first and perhaps most widely known phrase is "Et tu Brute?" I can't recall the specific context in which my mother mentioned this quotation. However, the other phrase, "Yon Cassius has a lean and hungry look," was mentioned in particular situations - in response to a complaint about being hungry.

Cassius and Brutus have the most lines in the play, yet it seems unfair that the play is named Julius Caesar. It shows how political assassinations rarely achieve the intended outcome. The assassination of Julius Caesar was supposed to safeguard the republic. Instead, it led to an emperorship for the remaining years of the Roman Empire.

I understand that this play will be performed in this coming summer's Theater in the Park in Kansas City. It will be interesting to see how the actors bring this classic story to life on the stage.

5 stars & 5/10 hearts. I absolutely adored this play. To be honest, I didn't anticipate it at all. But now, it's likely my favorite Shakespeare play.

- Caesar. When I informed my mother, she laughed and said, “Trust you to love him. He’s a leader and you like leaders.” Exactly. Caesar was a great man. He was probably not a good man in the traditional sense, but he was remarkable, and I respect his capabilities. As a character, he is truly fantastic. Despite his pride, he has confidence in himself, and he's someone you can rely on and trust. His death was truly tragic.

CAESAR. Caesar shall forth. The things that threaten’d me
Ne’er look’d but on my back; when they shall see
The face of Caesar, they are vanished.

- Brutus. How could I love Caesar’s murderer? Well, I don't anymore. But at the beginning, I did, and even at the end, he was still a captivating figure, a very good reminder of what occurs when you listen to the wrong people and become convinced of incorrect things.

BRUTUS. But ’tis a common proof,
That lowliness is young ambition’s ladder,
Whereto the climber-upward turns his face;
But when he once attains the upmost round,
He then unto the ladder turns his back,
Looks in the clouds, scorning the base degrees
By which he did ascend.

- Portia. Her relationship with Brutus was the sweetest. Shakespeare is renowned for his dysfunctional or disastrous couples, but this one was his best.

I have decided that from this moment forward, I am going to call anyone who purposely attempts to confuse me a saucy fellow. It's truly exasperating when someone deliberately goes out of their way to make things difficult and muddle my understanding. Whether it's in a conversation, a debate, or even in a written text, their actions seem calculated to throw me off track. I find it rather disrespectful and unhelpful. By labelling them as saucy fellows, I hope to express my frustration and make it clear that their behavior is not appreciated. Maybe this will serve as a gentle reminder to them that they should be more considerate and straightforward in their communication with me.

Review soon

In today's fast-paced world, it is crucial to review things promptly. Whether it's a project at work, a study assignment, or even a personal experience, timely review allows us to gain valuable insights and make necessary improvements. By taking the time to reflect on what has been done, we can identify areas of strength and weakness, and learn from our mistakes. This not only helps us to perform better in the future but also enables us to grow and develop as individuals. Moreover, reviewing soon helps to ensure that we don't forget important details or ideas that may have emerged during the process. It also gives us the opportunity to share our thoughts and feedback with others, which can lead to further discussions and collaborations. In conclusion, reviewing soon is an essential practice that can enhance our productivity, learning, and personal growth. So, make it a habit to review things regularly and see the positive impact it can have on your life.

The story of Julius Caesar is a tale filled with drama, intrigue, and betrayal. The famous quote "Cowards die many times before their deaths; The valiant never taste of death but once" sets the tone for the events that unfold. Caesar, a powerful and ambitious leader, faces many enemies who are jealous of his power and afraid of his genius. One of these enemies is Marcus Junius Brutus, a fickle man who is easily swayed by the insidious Cassius. Cassius fills Brutus' ear with conspiratorial nonsense, convincing him that Caesar must be stopped. But was it really necessary to kill Caesar? What if they had waited to see what he intended to do with his power? The decision to assassinate Caesar leads to a chain of events that ultimately results in the downfall of Brutus and his allies. The battle of Philippi is a disaster, and Brutus is left with no choice but to fall on his own sword. It is a tragic end to a story that could have been so different.

  “Cowards die many times before their deaths;
The valiant never taste of death but once.
Of all the wonders that I yet have heard,
It seems to me most strange that men should fear;
Seeing that death, a necessary end,
Will come when it will come.”

  

Beware the Ides of March. This warning holds true for those with aspirations to rule. Caesar, with his growing power, becomes a target for those who oppose him. Brutus, despite being a friend of Caesar, is influenced by Cassius and joins the conspiracy to kill him. But is Brutus truly a noble man, as he claims to be? Or is he just a pawn in Cassius' game? The play "Julius Caesar" by William Shakespeare explores these questions and more, painting a vivid picture of the political and personal turmoil that existed during that time.

  

The relationship between Brutus and Cassius is also a complex one. Cassius, a shrewd and calculating man, uses his charm and persuasion to convince Brutus to join the conspiracy. But does Cassius truly believe in the cause, or is he simply motivated by his own jealousy and desire for power? And what about Brutus? Does he really think that killing Caesar is the right thing to do, or is he just following Cassius' lead? These are the questions that keep us on the edge of our seats as we watch the drama unfold.

  ”And therefore think him as a serpent’s egg,
Which, hatch’d, would, as his kind, grow mischievous,
And kill him in the shell.”

In the end, the assassination of Caesar leads to chaos and civil war. The once-great Roman Republic is torn apart, and the stage is set for the rise of the Roman Empire. Brutus and his allies are defeated, and Brutus takes his own life. It is a tragic end to a story that could have had a very different outcome. But perhaps this is the price that must be paid for power and ambition. As the saying goes, "All that glitters is not gold."

“Et tu, Brute?”




  


Cassius

Cassius, the mastermind behind the conspiracy, is a complex and controversial figure. On one hand, he is seen as a patriot who is willing to do whatever it takes to save the Republic. On the other hand, he is also accused of being motivated by jealousy and a desire for power. His relationship with Brutus is particularly interesting, as he uses his charm and persuasion to convince Brutus to join the conspiracy. But in the end, does Cassius get what he deserves? Or is he just another victim of the political and personal turmoil that surrounds the assassination of Caesar?

  ”Of course will seem too bloody, Caius Cassius,
To cut the head off and then hack the limbs,
Like wrath in death and envy afterwards;
For Antony is but a limb of Caesar.
Let’s be sacrificers, but not butchers, Caius.
We all stand up against the spirit of Caesar.”

  


Marc Antony

  ”Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears;
I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him.
The evil that men do lives after them;
The good is oft interred with their bones;
So let it be with Caesar. The noble Brutus
Hath told you Caesar was ambitious:
If it were so, it was a grievous fault,
And grievously hath Caesar answer’d it.
Here, under leave of Brutus and the rest–
For Brutus is an honourable man;
So are they all, all honourable men–

Marc Antony, a loyal friend of Caesar, plays a crucial role in the events that follow the assassination. His famous speech at Caesar's funeral is a masterpiece of oratory, as he uses his words to turn the crowd against Brutus and his allies. But Antony is not just a skilled speaker. He is also a brave soldier and a shrewd politician. In the end, he emerges as one of the most powerful men in Rome, but at what cost?

I’m not going to talk about the disaster at the battle of Philippi. I think that might have been where the term Caesar salad came into common usage. Marc Antony and Octavius join forces and break the will of your men. We are all ready, way past ready, for you to fall on your own sword. In fact, I would have happily given you a firm Caligae to the arse if you needed a little extra encouragement.



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**A Question of Tyranny**

I am truly astonished that it has taken me this long to reread this remarkable play and pen a commentary on it, especially considering it's one of my all-time favorite Shakespearian works. The copy I possess belonged to my uncle, and the jotted notes within it reveal that he read it during his high school days. A part of me feels a tinge of jealousy as he got to study this play while I was assigned Hamlet. However, upon reflection, I'm glad I didn't study this play back then, as I might not have relished it as much as I do now.

One aspect that I truly dislike about this play is the 1970 movie starring Charlton Heston as Mark Antony and Jason Robbards as Marcus Brutus. The reason it mars an otherwise brilliant play is Jason Robbards' American accent. In fact, the accent is so atrocious that it completely ruins the movie. Another observation I've made about Shakespearian adaptations around that time is that they often adhered to the historical setting, unlike the more recent adaptations that bring the play into the modern world. Ever since the release of a particular version of Richard III, I've been hoping for a similar modern take on Julius Caesar. They did it with Coriolanus, and there is a Julius Caesar produced in 2002, but I'm still waiting to see one where tanks, artillery, and Apache Gunships sweep over the battlefield in the last act.
Nonetheless, it seems there have been several high-profile actors who have taken on the role of Mark Antony. Anyhow, enough of my ranting about my desire to see a modern rendition of Julius Caesar with Apache Gunships. Let's now turn our attention to the play itself.
Julius Caesar is regarded by modern scholars as a problem play. Initially, I didn't see anything overly problematic about it. While it is an historical play, it also showcases Shakespeare's growth as a playwright. However, when considering the historical context of the play, we need to take into account two aspects: the period in which the play was written and performed, and the period in which the events were set. The play is clearly political in nature, despite being a tragedy, and is based on historical events. The sources of the play are numerous and include Plutarch's Life of Julius Caeser, Life of Mark Antony, and Life of Marcus Brutus, as well as Lucan's Pharsalia. I will first examine the historical setting of the play (Ancient Rome) before delving into the context of the period in which the play was performed (Elizabethan England).
In Ancient Rome, we all know the story of Julius Caesar, a Roman general who rose to become the most powerful figure within the Roman Empire, only to be struck down by his peers in the Roman Senate, with his best friend among the conspirators. But we need to question why they did this, as it seems absurd to our modern eyes. This was not a simple assassination like that of John F Kennedy by a lone gunman (if that's what you believe), but rather it was more like Barrack Obama walking into Congress and all the Republican representatives drawing guns and shooting him. The senators did not expect retribution initially. They were the government, and in a sense, they were taking down a political opponent, which is something that occurs in modern democracies. The second reason the Roman Senators did this was because they believed Julius Caesar had become a tyrant. Whether he was truly a tyrant is a separate argument that I will touch on later.
In Elizabethan England, there had been a relatively stable government for over a century, especially in the last fifty years after the ascension of Elizabeth I. However, this period was coming to an end as Elizabeth was getting old and no successor had been named. There was also the fact that Elizabeth was not the most popular monarch among a certain portion of the population, but the threat of the throne being usurped was now somewhat diminished. Shakespeare had already written several plays covering a period of significant instability within England that culminated in the War of the Roses, and out of the ashes arose the Tudor dynasty, which had brought England into the modern age and created a stable government. Yet, there was always the threat that this government could collapse and return to the period of anarchy, a theme that Shakespeare would often return to.
Julius Caesar is an incredibly violent play. The act of assassinating Caesar is a brutally violent act in itself. Shakespeare clearly focuses on the blood during this part of the play, with an abundance of it flowing out. However, the violence does not end with the assassination but continues with Mark Antony's cry of 'cry havok and let slip the dogs of war'. Caesar was marked as a tyrant by the conspirators, and it was their duty to resist him. But things did not turn out as expected. Shakespeare's warning here is that assassinating the tyrant does not free the people but rather has the opposite effect. Notice how after Caesar is killed, two things occur: Octavian enters the play and becomes increasingly dominant, ultimately taking the mantle of Caesar, and Caesar returns as a ghost and interacts with the characters. Thus, the conspirators have not ended the tyranny but have perpetuated it. Caesar is offered the crown three times and rejects it each time. True, Caesar had just defeated his political enemy, but he did not kill Pompey. By assassinating Caesar, the conspirators have not only accelerated the process of Rome moving from a Republic to a dictatorship but have also released Caesar from his physical form, making him a legend.
There are several things to discuss about the main character, Julius Caesar. Even though he dies halfway through the play, he is still the central focus. It's interesting to note the change in the perception of Caesar between the Medieval Period and the Renaissance. Medieval thought portrayed him as a hero, while Renaissance thinkers began to see him as a tyrant. I don't believe Shakespeare saw him as a tyrant, as Caesar rejects the crown, and there was no clear indication that he wouldn't have stepped down after a while. However, Caesar was a populist, as seen throughout the play. He was able to touch upon the hearts of the ordinary people, which Mark Antony was also able to do to sway them back to his side. Further exploration of the historical facts reveals that Caesar's assassins were supporters of the patricians, while Caesar and his supporters were more in line with the common people.
Finally, I want to say a few words about Marcus Brutus. I believe the play is actually his tragedy. The title may be 'The Tragedy of Julius Caesar', but I think Brutus is the tragic hero. His ancestor is famous for removing the last King of Rome and founding the Republic, so he feels pressured to follow in his ancestor's footsteps in this perceived crisis. The problem is that he is Caesar's friend, which makes his struggle even greater. The question of whether it is right to commit a wrong for a greater good is central to his character. However, as I've argued, it's possible that Caesar was not a tyrant, so the act of participating in the assassination did not bring about a greater good. Brutus' legacy has also been forever tarnished. In Dante's Divine Comedy, he is condemned to the bottom layer of hell for betraying a close friend. The name of Brutus has become synonymous with betrayal. For me, whenever I hear the name Brutus, I immediately think of the character from Popeye. I've also written a blog post on the play, though I may have repeated some of the same points here.

In the course of teaching high school sophomores for thirty years, I have had the privilege of reading Julius Caesar more than thirty times. Each time, I am still amazed by the richness of detail and the complexity of its characters. It is truly a masterpiece that never fails to captivate me.

Almost every year, I find myself asking the same simple question: "Whom do I like better? Cassius or Brutus?" And almost every year, my answer is different from the previous year.

On one hand, we have Cassius. He is a selfish and manipulative conspirator. However, after the assassination, he reveals himself to be an impulsive, yet loyal friend and an able politician. His actions are driven by a combination of personal ambition and a desire for power.

On the other hand, there is Brutus. He is a conscientious intellectual and a lover of the republic. But under the weight of his guilt, he becomes an irritatingly scrupulous moralist and an inept general who is more concerned with reputation than success. His idealism and sense of duty sometimes blind him to the harsh realities of politics.

And then, of course, there is Antony. He is brilliant, vicious, and unscrupulous. His motives are often unclear, and he is ultimately as unknowable as a tornado. His actions add another layer of complexity to the already intricate web of relationships and politics in the play.

Julius Caesar is a great play that explores the themes of politics and human character in a profound and thought-provoking way. It forces us to question our own values and beliefs and to consider the consequences of our actions. It is a play that will continue to be relevant and engaging for generations to come.

It is both traditional and historical, and real. It is a book about Julius Caesar, the great Roman emperor, in which a group of nobles and his friends decide to unite against him.

Shakespeare has made great efforts to convey the real personality characteristics of real individuals in his plays.

The speech part of Antony for the people is one of the most eloquent parts of the English language and shows Shakespeare's way of speaking, which has been beautifully, artistically, and vividly translated with precise powers.

I enjoy reading Shakespeare's plays.