Comment on Julius Caesar as a political play

Answer

Comment on Julius Caesar as a political play. 

“Julius Caesar,” first performed in 1599, is a historical play and tragedy by William Shakespeare (1564-1616). In the play, Brutus joins a conspiracy led by Cassius to assassinate Julius Caesar to prevent Caesar from being a tyrant and save the people of Rome. Set in 44 BC Rome, the play delves into the political intrigue surrounding the assassination of Julius Caesar and its aftermath.

It is a compelling political play that explores power dynamics, betrayal, and the consequences of political decisions. Here are some key aspects that highlight its political nature:

Ambition and Power Struggle: “Julius Caesar” revolves around the political ambitions of various characters, notably Cassius. Cassius is the instigator of the conspiracy against Caesar. Cassius’ motive to kill Julius Caesar seems personal. Cassius is more motivated by jealousy of Caesar than by any political ideology. He is ambitious and hungry for power. He manipulates Brutus, a loyal friend of Julius Caesar, to take part in the assassination and secure public support.

In the context of ancient Rome, kingship is equated with tyranny. When Cassius begins manipulating Brutus in the direction of the conspiracy, he appeals to the “shame” of Rome accepting a king: 

“Rome, thou hast lost the breed of noble bloods!

When went there by an age, since the great flood,

But it was famed with more than with one man?”

Ambition becomes a driving force in the play. It leads to a power struggle among individuals seeking control and influence within the Roman Republic.

Political Manipulation: Shakespeare skillfully portrays the art of political manipulation through characters like Cassius and Antony. Cassius persuades Brutus to join the conspiracy against Caesar, exploiting Brutus’s concern for the Roman Republic. Cassius forges a letter to convince Brutus of public support for the conspirators. Again, when Brutus doesn’t want to act against Caesar, leaving Rome’s future to fate, Cassius manipulates Brutus. Cassius argues that Romans are servants only because they choose