Julius Caesar Act I

What two reasons, one humorous and one serious, does the Cobbler give Flavius for closing his shop? Humorous- to wear out the peoples’ shoes and get more business Serious- to celebrate Caesar’s triumph and return

Why does Marullus call the mob “senseless things?” They once cheered for Pompey and now celebrate the man who slew him.

What does Flavius tell the commoners to do? He tells him to go cry into the river to weep for Pompey’s death and then go home so Caesar does not see them celebrating his return.

What does Flavius tell the commoners to do? He tells him to go cry into the river to weep for Pompey’s death and then go home so Caesar does not see them celebrating his return.

How do the common folk react to the tribunes’ words? They follow the direction they are given.

What do Flavius and Marullus undertake to do? Send everyone home, undress statues and remove all decorations so Caesar will think that no one celebrates his return

Brutus thinks Antony is What does Brutus perceive as a difference in character between Antony and himself? Brutus thinks Antony is more competitive and more interested in sports than him (things that are not important)

Find one sentence spoken by Cassius that claims he sees Brutus’ nobility better than Brutus himself can. ‘I will be the mirror and show you, without exaggeration, things inside you can’t see.”

What type of weakness in Caesar does Cassius point out to Brutus? Cassius tells of a story that shows Caesar was weak and unable to swim.

Explain the difference between the views of Caesar held by Cassius and Brutus. Cassius thinks Caesar is a tyrant that wants to rule over Rome. Brutus loves Rome and is willing to listen to what is best for its people.

As Caesar and his followers approach, how do they appear to Brutus? Caesar looks upset and his followers like children that have been scolded for misbehavior.

What type of man does Caesar tell Antony he wants around him? He wants fat, balding men around him- men who are not hungry for power but are content. They are not dangerous; they will not try to thwart Caesar in any way.

Summarize Casca’s explanation for why Caesar looked so mad. Antony offered Caesar a crown. When he refused it, the crowd cheered (three times). So although Caesar really wanted the crown, at that point he could not publically accept it. Then he had a seizure in front of all of Rome.

What chronic illness does Caesar suffer? The “falling sickness”: Epilepsy

To whom does Cassius compare this strange and fearful night? He says the night is like Caesar, threatening and appearing powerful, but not something to be feared.

Casca says, “For I believe they are portentous things…” What does he mean? He thinks the list of unnatural sights he has just told Cicero about are signs of the tragedy about to unfold in their country..

What do the Senators plan to do on the ideas of March, according to Casca? Crown Caesar king

Who do Cassius and Casca hope to win over to their plan before morning? Brutus