1. In this unit, you are expected To take diligent notes about the information most necessary To discuss what you think the tragedy will be about To analyze characters To determine purpose for reading

2. William Shakespeare Major playwright of his time (and of all time) Affiliated with the Lord Chamberlain’s Men theatre company Emerged during the European Renaissance Favored by Queen Elizabeth I Major writer of the Elizabethan era of literature

3. Shakespeare is credited with some of the most famous comedies and tragedies, such as the following: Hamlet Romeo and Juliet King Lear Macbeth A Midsummer Night’s Dream Much Ado About Nothing Othello Twelfth Night

4. And, without argument, the most famous drama ever written…

5. The Tragedy of Julius Caesar The Greatest Treachery in History

6. There are literally hundreds of versions of Shakespeare’s classic in print, on stage, and in film.

7. This story sounds like it was ripped straight from today’s headlines! Plot He is the greatest hero the Roman world has known, but for Julius Caesar the world is not enough. And with political ambition come new enemies, enemies who wield words like knives in the shadows. Soon friend will become foe and foe his avenger, and only death shall be the victor.

8. Julius Caesar is a five act play that opens with Marullus and Flavius criticizing the citizens who celebrate Caesar’s return. Caesar has just defeated Pompey and is expected to take control of Rome.

9. This story take place in… Ancient Rome, 500 years before Shakespeare was born, in 44 B.C.

10. There are few things you’ll need to remember while reading this drama.

11. Relationships The women of The Tragedy of Julius Caesar are focal to the play. Pay close attention to the roles of Caesar’s wife, Calpurnia, as well as of Portia, wife of Brutus.

12. Portia, the wife of Brutus makes some very interesting choices. Learn what they are and why she is a unique part of the entire drama.

13. Flip floppers The Roman citizens were notorious for switching sides. You will see them show loyalty to Pompey, the members of the Senate and Caesar over and over again. They were fickle in their opinions and with their loyalties.

14. Historical Account The Tragedy of Julius Caesar gives an historical account of the conspiracy to take down the Roman general and dictator. Realize that this actually took place and changed the face of Rome, its citizens, and its value system.

15. This is the way Caesar and members of the Senate and tribunal courts dressed in Ancient Rome. Could you pull this off?

16. Elizabethan Language The Tragedy of Julius Caesar is written in Elizabethan English—the English spoken in the 17 th century. Most of the unfamiliar words are explained in your book’s footnotes. You should try to remember what these words are and use context clues to guide your reading and understanding of unfamiliar words.

17. Tips to tackling Shakespearean Language Familiarize yourself with new vocabulary --get the dictionary and learn something Become best friends with the footnotes --without them, you are all but doomed Consider the grammatical sentence structure ex) I denied you not as opposed to I did not deny you

18. Superstition in the play Ancient Romans were highly superstitious and polytheistic (they worshipped many gods). They looked to the gods and goddesses in all aspects of life. In the drama, Caesar will even credit the gods with being on his side according to the weather’s signals.

19. Caesar’s crown was unique from other leaders. It was made from neither silver nor gold

20. Don’t forget to take diligent notes throughout the reading of the play. They will come in handy for your quizzes, analysis paper, and end of unit test

21. You’ve got to really delve into this classic piece to get the whole story. It’s so worth it!

22. Ever been betrayed by someone you considered a friend?