JC ACT 3 scene 1 JC ACT 3 scene 1 JC ACT

Artemidorus offers Caesar the letter warning him of the conspiracy
Decius Brutus is alert and distracts Caesar saying that Trebonius desired Caesar to go through his “humble suit” at the earliest
Artemidorus who knows Decius is one of the conspirators, panics and end up stating the wrong thing – to read his first for it concerns him personally

1. Julius Caesar Act 3 Scene 1

2. The climax This is the climax of the play The assassination of Caesar takes place here The turning point of the play too occurs here with the entry of Antony’s servant A scene filled with drama and emotions FATE gives two more chances to Caesar to survive but he overlooks both

3. Caesar to the Soothsayer In front of the Capitol Huge crowd of people surrounding Caesar, including the conspirators Caesar happens to eye the Soothsayer and reminds him that the “ides of March” had come - implying he had defeated the claim The soothsayer gently replies that the day was not done – implying danger was still lurking

4. Artemidorus Artemidorus offers Caesar the letter warning him of the conspiracy Decius Brutus is alert and distracts Caesar saying that Trebonius desired Caesar to go through his “humble suit” at the earliest Artemidorus who knows Decius is one of the conspirators, panics and end up stating the wrong thing – to read his first for it concerns him personally

5. Artemidorus & Caesar On hearing this, Caesar refused to read and stated that what concerned him personally would be looked at last Desperate, Artemidorus pleads for a third time and Caesar wonders whether he was ”mad” Cassius told Artemidorus not to make petitions on the street but to do so in the capitol Caesar endangers his personal self by giving preference to his public self. This leaves him vulnerable

6. Popilius Lena unknowingly starts the action… As Caesar and the senators walk up the steps and go into the Capitol, Popilius Lena whispers to Cassius that his “enterprise” may succeed On asking Lena ‘what enterprise’ was he referring to, he mysteriously bid Cassius farewell and went away Brutus asked Cassius what Popilius Lena had said Cassius, flustered, told Brutus what Lena had stated and added that the conspiracy had been leaked

7. Cassius alarmed, warned Casca Brutus kept his calm and asked Cassius to observe Lena who went to Caesar Cassius in desperation: either Caesar would die, or he would kill himself Cassius told Casca to be ready to attack for the conspiracy had been revealed. Brutus: Lena was not revealing the plan for Caesar expression did not change and Lena was smiling

8. “Trebonius knows his time” Cassius remarked that Tebonius knew when to perform his role – for he was taking Mark Antony out of the capitol. The conspirators knew that Antony was a man of action, and he could have come to the rescue of Caesar. Hence, Trebonius was assigned the role of taking him away from Caesar.

9. Last minute planning… Decius: Metellus should go at once and offer his ‘suit’ (request) to Caesar Brutus: Metellus was prepared but the rest had to support him by approaching Caesar. Cinna: reminded Casca that he was the first to strike Caesar Caesar: “Are we all ready?” (IRONY!) What was ‘amiss’ that he and the senators had to redress?

10. Metellus and Caesar.. Metellus : uses superlative flattering words (“most high, most mighty, most puissant”) and bows down humbly at Caesars feet It is important to note that Caesar preempts him before he mentions his suit. This is because it had been requested earlier too.

11. Caesar first speech showing his arrogance Caesar stopped Metellus at once Stated that the bending and low bowing would excite the blood of ordinary people. So much so that the ordinary men would change fixed decisions and established laws and make it into the laws of children which change anytime Metellus should not be foolish to think Caesr carries such fickle blood

12. Continued… That he would be influenced from his real nature with flattery that would influence “fools” – i.e. sweet words, ”low crooked courtesies” and slave-like cringing of a dog Metellus ’ brother (Publius Cimber )was banished by the law If Metellus would “bend”, appeal and plead for him, then Caesar would kick him like a “cur” out of his way For Caesar does no wrong nor without reason would he change his decision Caesar appeared arrogant and ridiculous in his statements

13. Metellus carried out the second part of his plan… Metellus asked aloud if there was anyone else whose voice was “more worthy” then his own A voice that would sound “more sweetly” to Caesar and succeed in cancelling the banishment for his brother This was a trick to get the other conspirators a chance to approach Caesar physically

14. Brutus appeals… Marcus Brutus took the cue and came close to Caesar Kissed Caesar’s hand “but not in flattery”, pleaded that that Publius Cimber may be given an immediate freedom from the sentence of banishment Note how shocked Caesar was seeing Brutus appeal. Brutus was a praetor. A man belonging to the judicial system. Asking to break the law was shocking to Caesar who could only utter “What, Brutus!”

15. Cassius appealed. Caesar’s second speech.. Cassius: begged for pardon to Publius and fell as low as Caesar’s feet to beg the right to be a free citizen for Publius Cimber . Caesar at once insulted Cassius and stated that he would be influenced if he were Cassius (implying Cassius was an ordinary man) If Caesar would appeal to others to do injustice, then he too would be moved by the same kind of prayers

16. The Northern star… Ceasar was ‘constant’ like the Northern star – whose truly firm and immobile quality there was no comparison in the sky “firmament” The sky was filled with “unnumbered sparks” – they all sparkled and shone But in all there was one that held on to its position

17. The Northern star…continued So also, in the world there were several men: flesh, blood, and rational But in that number of men there was one who “unassailable” (immovably) held on to his rank, unaffected by outward influences Ceasar was that person, and he would show his firmness in that very instance – he was always firm that Cimber should be banished, and he remained constant that the situation would not change

18. The rest of the conspirators' approach… Cinna approached next Caesar: away! Would he lift Mt. Olympus! Decius Brutus was after that Caesar: reminded him that Marcus Brutus whom he loved dearly was on his knees in vain and unheeded Casca: attacked him, letting his hands do the talking

19. Et Tu Brutus? Last to attack was Brutus Caesar: ”Et Tu Brute? Then fall Caesar Shakespeare presents the treachery very vividly – Casca stabbing from behind like a coward and the rest of the conspirators surrounding him, enclosing him like a wall. It is after Caesar sees Brutus stabbing him that all fight leaves him. Helplessly he falls at the foot of Pompey’s statue with twenty-three stab wounds .

20. Declarations by the conspirators Cinna : declared aloud that “Liberty, Freedom” was given and tyranny was ended. It should be proclaimed on the streets Cassius: asked some of the senators to go to the public platform and cry out liberty, freedom and the democracy was given to all Brutus, however, saw the panic and wisely tried to calm everyone by telling them not to be frightened and flee, for “ambition” had paid its debt Brutus asked for Publius, the senior Senator, to reassure him that no harm was meant for anyone. He could convey the same to all Cassius caringly asked him to leave lest he was harmed in the confusion

21. Metellus defensive… Seeing the chaos and panic of people running helter-skelter, Metellus suggested that the group of conspirators should “stand fast” together, in case some friend of Caesar would retaliate Brutus abhors the suggestion since being defensive meant they had done something wrong. He believed their cause was right. The aftermath of Caesar’s death shows the conspirators quite confused with each offering a different suggestion. It was obvious that they had no plan laid out after the death of Caesar.

22. Trebonius returns… Trebonius – the only conspirator who had not participated in the actual killing returned. Cassius, who was always cautious of Antony, asked where he had gone Trebonius replied that he had “fled to his house” shocked by what had happened Men, women, and children were all in a state of shock and running as if it were ”doomsday” Clearly the conspirators have not brought in “peace, freedom, and liberty” as they had envisioned

23. Brutus becomes philosophical… Brutus was moved and deeply affected by the assassination He stated philosophically that what “Fate” had decided for all, would eventually be known. It was a fact that everyone would die However, it was the “when” and “how long can life be stretched” that people considered important.

24. Death is a benefit… Casca stated since man was always fearful of death, someone who dies early - fears death less To this Brutus added that there was a benefit in death and that would mean they were ”friends” of Caesar as they had reduced his time of fearing death

25. Calphurnia’s dream comes true… Brutus instructed the conspirators to bend and “bathe” their hands in Caesar’s blood – right up to the elbow Smear the blood on their swords too Hold the sword over their head and walk into the market-place Crying “Peace, freedom, and Liberty”

26. Cassius: their noble scene will be enacted.. While bathing their hands in Caesar’s blood Cassius stated that so many ages later, the noble scene will be enacted again in countries not yet discovered and languages not yet known Shakespeare could be referring to the number of times his play will be performed on stage in different languages, and countries Cassius could be referring to how people inspired by their rebellion against tyranny, will duplicate the same in their country

27. Continued.. Brutus: How many times would Caesar bleed in “sport” (plays) who now lies at the foot of Pompey’s statue, no worthier than the dust Cassius: Whenever the play would be performed – they would be called the people who gave freedom to Rome

28. Arrival of Antony’s servant.. Antony’s servant conveyed that Antony had asked him to kneel before Brutus, then prostrate himself before him and say: Brutus was noble, wise, valiant, and honest Caesar was mighty (powerful), bold (brave), royal, and loving Antony loved and honoured Brutus but Antony feared, loved, and honoured Caesar If Brutus would assure the safety of Antony and give reason why Caesar deserved to “lie in death”……

29. Antony’s servant…. cont Mark Antony would not grieve the death of Caesar as much as value the friendship of Brutus And will support Brutus through the matters of the new state loyally. Antony is a basic survivor. He grieves Caesar’s death but needs to avenge the death of Caesar as well as establish his power. Therefore, he runs away from the scene of murder and then regroups and returns

30. Examples of Brutus noble, wise, valiant, honest… Noble: Kills Caesar as an act of sacrifice. Therefore, refuses to kill Antony Wise: tried to bring calm after Caesar’s death and approached Publius the senior senator whose voice would be heeded Valiant: Brutus’s instructions to go out into the streets with the bloodstained hands and swords Honest: his intention for joining the conspiracy was honest – for the good of Rome

31. Caesar: mighty, bold, royal, loving Mighty (powerful): Casca saying: when Caesar says ‘do this’, it is performed Bold (brave): Cowards die many times before their death… Royal: to Artemidorus: what touches us ourselves, shall last be served Loving: towards Antony, and Brutus as well as the public

32. Brutus to the servant Conveyed to Antony that he was a wise and brave Roman Brutus never thought any less of him He should come to the Capitol, and he will be satisfied with the reasons for Caesar’s murder Upon Brutus’ honour he will be unharmed.

33. Cassius doubts Antony’s support.. Brutus is happy with the development and believes that they would have a good friend in Antony Cassius hoped they may but a part of him doubted Antony and his misgivings generally came true.

34. Antony’s speech on first seeing Caesar Antony became emotional seeing the stab-ridden body of Caesar and wondered that such a powerful man was reduced so low that all his achievements, glories, victories and wealth had shrunk to the little piece of earth his body occupied He bade Caesar farewell and then turned to the conspirators…

35. Antony: I know not what you intend.. Referred to them as “gentlemen” and said that he did not know what they intended to do Who else’s blood was to be drained out Who else was “rank” (PUN) in their eyes {of the same level & diseased} If it was Antony, then there was no hour so fit as Caesar’s death hour No instrument of as much value as their swords made ‘rich’ being covered with the most precious blood

36. Antony appealed to be killed… He begged them that if they bore a grudge against him, then now while their “purpled” (bloodied) hands were warm with Caesar’s blood they should fulfil their pleasure of killing him If he had to live for a thousand years, he would not find himself so willing to die No place, no method of death, and no hour would please him as much as being killed along with Caesar and killed by “the choice and master spirits of this age” Hint of sarcasm in calling them as the master and the choice-makers of the new age

37. Brutus to Antony.. Brutus urged Antony not to talk of his death Though they would appear blood-thirsty because of their hands and the violent act just committed Antony could not see their hearts which were full of pity Pity for the general Romans drove out pity for Caesar Just as one forest fire destroys another forest fire, so also pity for the suffering Romans drove out pity for Caesar

38. Cont …. Brutus to Antony For Antony… the conspirators had blunt swords (did not intend to harm him) They welcomed Antony in their midst with arms which appeared hostile but with hearts full of brotherly love They offered him love, good thoughts, and respect Cassius stated that Antony’s voice would be very powerful in allotting dignities Cassius is suspicious of Antony and dangles temptation to bribe his support.

39. Brutus asked Antony to be patient.. Brutus requested Antony to be patient till they had pacified the crowds who were in a state of fear and panic After that Brutus would convey the reason why they killed Caesar in spite of loving Caesar till the end Antony: (sarcastically) stated that he did not doubt their wisdom and shook hands with each one To Casca he referred “valiant” sarcastically and Trebonius he shook hands last (hiding the bitterness he must have felt for him)

40. Antony’s reputation is doubtful… After shaking hands, Antony stated that his reputation was on slippery grounds and the conspirators would think of him in one of the two bad ways… They would either think of him as a coward (scared for his life) or a flatterer (they will be the new govt) That he did love Caesar was true If Caesar’s spirit was looking from above, it would hurt him more than his own death to see “thy Antony” shaking the ‘bloody’ hands and making peace with his murderers

41. Caesar hunted…. If Antony had as many eyes as Caesar had wounds – shedding tears as copiously as the wounds were shedding blood – it would suit him better as a friend than form an agreement of friendship with his enemies Antony got carried away at this point and imagined the spot Caesar was hunted, where he fell and how the “hunters” stand bearing the marks of their hunt and reddened in his “ lethe ” (the river of death. Here it refers to the river of blood flowing)

42. The world was a forest to Caesar… Antony stated that the world was a forest to Caesar the “hart” (male deer) – where he roamed freely, conquering whichever parts he wanted He also stated that Caesar was the “heart” (most important man) of the world How like a deer attacked by several hunters he lay on the ground Cassius became alarmed and reacted..

43. Antony repeats condition… Antony apologized for getting carried away but said that even the enemies of Caesar would praise him, as a friend it was an understatement Cassius: he did not blame Antony but wanted to know the agreement with them. Should they count upon him as a supporter or proceed without him Antony reminded him that that was the reason he shook hands with them (but was carried away). He was their friend - upon the condition that they give reason why and in what way was Caesar dangerous enough to die.

44. Brutus: were you the son of Caesar…. Brutus stated that without a reason the murder would be a savage spectacle They were so full of good reasons that were Antony the real son of Caesar, he would not hold the murder against them.

45. That’s all I ask. Moreover,…. Antony said that was all he wanted. Then subtly he slipped in the most important request – Moreover, he had a request to produce Caesar’s body in the market-place And as a friend give a speech in the funeral ceremony Unsuspecting Brutus agree at once Cassius, very alarmed, took Brutus aside and told him not to give Antony permission to speak in the funeral as they did not know how he could “move” the people..

46. Brutus stated the conditions he would keep on Antony… Brutus would first go on the public platform and give reasons for Caesar’s death Brutus would then declare what Antony would speak He would state that Antony's speech was by their leave and permission Because the conspirators wanted Caesar to have a proper funeral ceremony It would help more than harm

47. Brutus puts conditions on Antony… Cassius protested again but Brutus had moved away Hands over the body to Antony and stated that: he was not to blame the conspirators in his speech Antony must speak all good of Caesar He should say it was by their permission Antony’s speech would be after Brutus’ speech And on the same public platform Antony readily agreed..

48. Antony’s soliloquy.. Begs Caesar who is “a bleeding piece of earth” (JC is the symbol of Rome here) that he was so ‘meek and gentle’ with the “butchers” Caesar was the ruins of the noblest man who has lived in history He cursed the hands that shed such precious blood Upon Caesar’s wounds he now predicted (the wounds were like a pair of red lips unable to speak but begging Antony to speak on their behalf)

49. Antony’s prophesy… A curse would fall upon everyone Domestic anger and civil strife would trouble all parts of Italy Blood and destruction would be so common and horrifying sights so familiar that even mother would only smile to see their children cut to pieces in war Pity would be stifled in people because they would be so used to evil deed Caesar’s spirit, thirsting for revenge would appear along with Até (blind goddess of revenge)

50. Prediction…. continued And within the limits of Italy, Caesar like a monarch, would cry out ‘destruction’ And would unleash the ‘dogs of war’ (famine, slaughter, plunder, etc ) The stench of the foul deed would fill the air And dead bodies would beg for a place to be buried

51. Octavius’ servant… Came to inform that his master was arriving Saw Caesar’s body and became tearful Antony sent message to Octavius not to enter Rome yet, since it was dangerous. But told the servant to wait till he gave the speech to the public and according to their reaction he should convey to Octavius the development.