Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare is without a doubt an utter tragedy. It contains disloyalty, betrayal, and corruption. Each character plays a specific role in this play. The most complex character is Marcus Brutus. Brutus, being the backbone of the assassination and Caesar's best friend, takes the position of the tragic hero. Others do not initially think of Brutus as a threat. His Honor, nobility, loyal patriotism, and naive manner combine to become Julius Caesar's tragic hero.
Honor is a primary feature of Brutus. His admiration is evident in many of his dramatic speeches and proclamations. He illustrates his honor by ranking it higher to death: "If it aught toward the general good, set honor in one eye and death I' the other...as I love the name of honor more than I fear death" (I:II). He is willing to die for the benefit of Rome. Brutus strives to prove his nobility to practic
All the conspirators, save only he,
Equally important is Brutus' idealistic and naive nature, which is shaped from his nobility and patriotism. Brutus' stubborn attitude is his greatest virtue but also his tragic flaw. Like common people, he is rigid with his views despite all advice. Cassius please with Brutus to not permit Antony to speak at the funeral: "You know now what you do: do not consent that Antony speak in his funeral:"(III:I). Consequently, Brutus innocently believes Antony will not betray them. However, Antony's speech mocks the conspirators and sways the people to revolt against them.
In the Tragedy of Julius Caesar, Brutus has many of the model qualities that compose a tragic hero. His many interconnected facets, although seeming to structure strong traits, eventually are his downfall. His high moral code and dedication produce his untimely faults and distort his judgment.
All papers and essays are for research and reference purposes only!
Copyright 2002-2009
Direct Essays , LLC. All Rights Reserved. DMCA Webmasters make $$$$