Historical and Literary Context Julius Caesar A Tragedy by William Shakespeare

The “Real Caesar” Julius Caesar, Rome’s military leader, lived from 102 BCE to 44 BCE. During Caesar’s life, Rome ruled much of the world.

The Roman Empire

The “Real Caesar” Caesar, a real commander, turned on another general, Pompey. Caesar and Pompey had been friends. Pompey tried to sway the Roman government to overthrow Caesar. Caesar took control of Rome and went after Pompey.

The “Real Caesar” While in Egypt, Caesar fell in love with Cleopatra. He made her the ruler of Egypt. Caesar went back to Rome a hero and was made dictator. He made his friend, Brutus, a senator

“The Unconquerable God”

Shakespeare’s play opens a month before this all takes place…

Act I Summary Caesar has become the most powerful man in the Roman Republic and is eager to become king The people are celebrating his triumphant return to Rome. Mark Antony, his friend, offers Caesar a crown three times, but Caesar refuses before having an epileptic seizure. Caesar suspects some of his Senate members are untrustworthy.

Act II Summary When Caesar and his entourage appear, a soothsayer warns him to “Beware the ides of March,” (March 15), but Caesar is unconcerned. Cassius (Senate member) tries to convince Brutus (Caesar’s friend and Senate member) that Caesar is too ambitious and must be assassinated for the welfare of Rome. Brutus trusts Cassius and does not realize that he is being manipulated.

Act II Summary cont… For a month, Brutus has struggled with his decision; and on the morning of the ides of March, he agrees to join the conspirators. Artimedorus, a teacher, begs Caesar to take a letter from him which “concerns Caesar’s person greatly.” Caesar refuses the letter (which named the conspirators and warned Caesar of his impending death). Inside the Senate, Casca strikes first and the conspirators stab Caesar to death. Brutus delivers the final blow and Caesar asks, “Et tu, Brute?” (And you, Brutus?) at this act of betrayal.

Act III Summary Antony convinces Brutus to let him speak at Caesar’s funeral. Despite Cassius’ insistence that they kill Antony, Brutus insists that they trust him and let him eulogize Caesar. Antony agrees to speak after Brutus, speak no ill of the conspirators, and to speak in the same location as Brutus.