Act IV Scene (iiüi)

A. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow :
1. Cassius. In such atime as this is not meet
That every nice offence should bear his comment
Lines. 7-8
Meanings: (i) meet - fitting, suitable. (ii) nice offence - minor fault, trifling offence. which is
existing only in the eyes of a very critical person.
o.L What particular state of affairs is referred to "In sucha time as this" ?Explain fully.
Ans. Cassius refers to their uncertain and troubled conditions when he savs "in such a time as
this. They were trying to gather support and raise troops to fight the armies of Antony
and Octavius. So Cassius tells Brutus that their position and freedom was threatened and
they required their friends and followers. It was unwise to pick on every small oftence.
such as bribs taken, of their subordinates. This would alienate their friends and supporters
at a time when they needed each one of them to deal with the threat posed by the torces
of Antony and Octavius.
Q. II. What, in particular, does Cassius refer to as "every nice offence" ? Explain the
significance of the last line above. What does it tell us about Cassius ?
Ans. Cassius is upset that Brutus had condenmned his friend Lucius Pella for accepting britbes
which in his eyes is a trifling offence. He accuses Brutus of disregarding his appeals and
tells him that he should not become so particular about picking on every slight moral
aberration of their subordinates. He refers to the offence as "nice" nmeaning that only a
fastidious and over critical verdict could have taken a severe decision and found an oftence
where none seemed to exist. He believes that bribery was a minor crime and Brutus should
not have taken such aserious and stern notice of it as to condemn Lucius Pella. The last
line is significant because it shows the divergent attitudes and ideologies of Cassius and
Brutus. Cassius cannot understand why Brutus has given undue importance toa trifling
offence. It becomes pathetically evident that the two have reached a stage in their
relationship where they fail to understand each other's values and motives, We realise
that Cassius is a man who can get carried away from justice for the sake of gain. Cassius
reveals that he is a typical ruthless soldier who has no scruples about raising money to
meet his ends at the time of war. He believes that money is necessary, and can be obtained
by all means at his power, to procure supplies and he does not attach undue importane
to minor deviations from the path of ethics.
Q. III. What response does this evoke ? What is Cassius accused of ? How does he react to
this ?

Ans. Brutus responds to Cassius by accusing him directly of accepting bribes and ot selling
appointmentstounderserving people for gold Brutus is angry and disillusioned at Cassius'
dishonest and corrupt actions and accuses him angrily of being carried away trom the
path of morality for personal gains. Cassius is enraged and lashes out verbally at Brutus.
He warns him to control his tongue. He tells him that he was in a senior position and a
friend and hence was safe otherwise Cassius would not have allowed him to live after
accusing him of having a hand ready toaccept bribes.
Q. IV. What unusual aspect of the characters personality is brought out to us by this interchange ?
Ans. Both Cassius and Brutus appear to be confused, hurt and fearful. They are like two
cornered animals who start snarling at each other when the odds against them seem to be

Comprehension Passages 239 Arun Deep's l.C.S.E.Julius Caesar

 Flasw
leorats or Caesa

Iplain outorget yourselt,

1. Cassius. a soldier, L
lo hedge me in Iam than yourselt
s
had saked
U e
that th
oble
u)n hav tet ot
disillhusulet Older in yractice, abler
he eicdths leves him lo make conditions.
the trots ehssan Lines. to2
thd morality an thix
his tols lorhim hmits (u) hedge me n
restrnt my
ed t war tthns tlensiv w arr sregarding our
um th s
lle (inds
Meanings : o) vwu lorgt youneit rights (tz) olter n pratice more expenened n) abler
ey uthont ontrol and
u : dittstlt
aurins Wr
tines
lo make apntments
jusliv ctiient () m.aknditons sort of a mood are they
Brutus say to nnake Cassius reply in this tone What
this
coruption, 0. . What does
(assius honouN head. Line, 15-16 a handtu! of gold
1, Bufus. he nme ot thetore hide his in ?
eon who wwuld sell us honour tor
chastiscment doth elhasisemt
Ans, Brutus had called hum atrIVal aing that he a dog and bark at the
And ()
apprhonest.
ould rather be
thisorupt art He had turther nsulted hum by remarhi " had rather be a dog and bay the
upion - makes mxun th.an e.a Roman like th.tt ButIs
Meanings: ) howurs
this
than such a Roman." his had inturated Cassius who hat then replet that be
moon, both
unethiallhaviOurt aller man to mak pontments. Ihey are
CassiuN
ubishnent
in ?Why ? theeorupt and values as imselt. lle wsd ore epeendsoldter and an hurl avusattons and nsults at cah other tanlung
Q.1. What mood is Brutus disillusionedIwith high moral
moralities. He is ontused in an angry and ggnsve mood Both
same tnentshup has wn ep
to understand cach others moives and attituds Iheirwarm
and
Ans, Brutus s nturtati ssus des not adhee(o
the
tleible he had
people with is warthat the triend
lie nalises that
ina world tull lot prineiles He patlh otjusicv
Iorpesonal by hurt. despr disillusionment, and resentment
th.at he is triendless high the
hod on to his
noralhbn.ad an deviate tom Q. I1. Evplain, "To hedge nne in "
nd sat and tws to his authonty
thisted IN notot the
sme
"honours this
corruption," Ans, Cassius angrilv avvuses Brutus ot trving to usurp his powers and restnct authonty and
Eplain, practices. He insists hat He tells Brutus that he was tryng to hedge him in meanung that Cassius
gred. ot here ? disonest rights were eing curtatled by the overbearing att1tudte ot Brutus.
Q. lI. What is the
coruption he speaks orrupt andorrupt dealng$ of his
triends and
Ssius of vering up
position to shield cOrrupt practice of 0. ll, What does Cassius imply that Brutus has forgotten ? What is the implied threat ?
Ans. Brutus ccuses roters to the
status and Brutus
SUsng hisecieving just punishunents. evenCassius, Brutus Uses the phras Ans. Cassiusimplies that Brutus has forgotten that he isa sodier austomed to Violene ant
dssus malpraiesand
Protvting them trom Sardians by Lueius l'ella and Overing on the ruthless when dealing with people who nsult him He thatens indiretlv that he could
the that Cassius
puts kill Brutus for insulting him in such a wav. Casus bewmes hysterwal with rage and
(akng briws trom orruption"meaning
onours this head." warns Brutus to beware of his rvaction to the insults he was hurl1ng at him He ouu
bribes. therefore hide his
ishonest dealngs such asAnd chastisementdoth involvement otCassius inspite of the resort to a soldier's ruthless and brutal violenoe and kill Butus.
to explain, " of the
. 'araphrase averted and kept oftbeeause Q. IV. How accurate is Cassius assessment of himself as a soldier ? Give reasons tor your
Ans, unishment
is be honest and just?
for them to
answer.
malpractie being committed. important
specially Ans. Cassius was an honoured and competent Roman warrior and a general respected tor his
opinion was it of justion
Q. IV. Why in Brutus to, to stress this
point ? preserve ertain ideals military genius even by Cae'sar. Even Mark Antonv nsders h1m a great mhtary
What does he refer they had murdered Cacsar to Caesar, the greatest nan in the commander. Cassius believes that a brave soldier must not retnat and so klls his stand ard
Cassius that stablbed robbers so how
Ans. Brutus tells Each one of the conspirators hadCaesar tor only tavouring bearer whowas running away from the battletieli with h1s lag Casus is a ty peal soldier
and honesty. justice, They had slain bribes and sell their honourable tor whom it is morr important to proure tunis and supplies tor hs soldiers than t
of
world. tor the sake those very hands by accepting their honour and integrity of such preserve his abstract ideals, Hence, he does not hes1table in awpting bnbes trom the
Could they now spoil amount of gold. Was
a negligible fora handful of gold. Acceptane of
bribe violated all Sardians to make appointments as it was a means of raising money to arquir suppies
ranks and names forwould barter it needed for his army. He ven tells Brutus that he was ruthless solder tor whomn winnng
little value that they ledto their slaving Caesar. a war was more important than being ideal1stic.
had uncharacteristic of Brutus ?
the motives that virtuous intolerano Q. V. Explain, "To make conditions,"
are these lines but now his
Q.V. In what way calm and dignitied temperament feels justified in insulting and Ans. Cassius uses the above phrase to tell Brutus that he was a
Ans, Brutus was a
man of a judge who more eNperiencd solker than
He behaves like a which is uncharacteristic Brutus to make appointments tor important posts. He intorms Brutus that he was having
makes him lose control.triend. He becomes rude and aggressive kindness and courtesly more evperiene in the matter ot settling the terms ot appointments
condemning a personal overbearing and the as he had served tor
Brutus. He has lbecome a longer period as a soldier.
otthe polite and gentlepart of his character are sadly missing.
that were an inherent
Arun Deep's I.C.S.E, Julius Cacsar Comprehension Passages 241 Ann Deep's lC SE. Juhus Caesar
240
Comprehension Passages
 Flanus It does not matter, do not allow any images to be dressed with triumphal
decorations for Caesar

absence,
Impatient of my Mark Antony
4. Brutus. Idid send 5. Brutus.
young Octavius with with her death
pay my legjons, And grief that strong: for
To you for gold to was that done like
Cassius ?
Have made
themselves so distract,
Which you denied
me:
Lines. 75-77 With this she feil
That tidings came. swallow'd fire.
that done like Cassius - was it an act attendants absent, Lines. 132-156
refused. (in) was And, her
(i) denied - - news.
Meanings: () legions - troops. separation from me (r) thd1ngshad gore
worthy of you just before this ? of my absence - unable to endure people look1ng after her
accused Cassius of doing from the Meanings: () impatient insane, (rt) attendants
absent-
2I. What had Brutus
of accepting bribes and gold Sardians
and vile methods
to makee (ii) distract - upset, which is corros1ve
Ans. Brutus had accused Cassius underhand -a poison
accuses Cassius of using out. () fire ? Why ? WVhere ?
appointments. He angrily saying that he had "an Brutus say these words their dtfferences
He insults Cassius by itching Q.I. T whom does Cassus after they have reconaled and conanuing
funds and money for his troops. are spoken by Brutus to
camp at Sard1s
your offices for gold." Ans. These words tent in his and
palm, To sell and mart Explain,"was that done like quarrel. They are in Brutus´ tells Cassius that he had lost control
Q. II. What does he accuse
Cassius ofin these lines ? Cassius
gold for the: salary of
?" and ended their
bowl of wine. Brutus hum to follow his
Cassius of refusingto pay him his their disqussion over a was burdened with sorrows. Cassus adises
Brutus accuses
become angry because he tells CassiUS about
Ans. In the above lines
Brutus had earlier
condemned Cassius for raising money by mistortune storcally Brutus then
troops. It is ironical that giving him money to; pay his own philosophy of bearing pain and his friend and praises him for hus tortitude and self
"vile means" but now is upset with Cassius for not
purposely not giving him money troops.
for his soldiers and telle t Portia's death. Cassius teels sorry for
explains her death in the
above lines.
He feels that Cassius is
a man of Cassius status especially when he Was R t control. Brutus then
her ? Describe the
circumstances of this persons death.
that it was an act unworthy of whom is Brutus speaking that Portia had ded because
Q. II. About Portia, his wife's death. He explains anuety
friend. "legions" does he refer to bee Ans. Brutus is speaking about she loved him very much. Her
Cassius need money for? What separation from him as
Q. III. What did Brutus and
to pay for supplies and to pay their
soldiers she could not bear the longcame to know that Antony and Octavius were rentorc1ng
Ans. Brutus and Cassius needed money
their troops, the forces raised by Brutus from the Ro had increased when she
Finally unable to bear her burdens
of despair and aniety she
"legions referred to here are themselves to fight Brutus. consuming
or legons had been gathered to face the a corrosive poison.
states and kingdoms in Asia Minor. These forces had committed suicide by themselves strong?
armies of Antonv and Octavius. and Octavius made
mind ? Q. III. what way had Mark Antony armies and had gathered support by forming
reveal the confusion in Brutus' Octavius had raised strong the
Q. IV. How do these lines abstract code of ethics and L Ans. Mark Antony and had recruited new soldiers and harnessed
reveal that Brutus is confused about his and
dependable strong alliances. They
Ans. The above lines
nobility and integrity are praiseworthy qualities and Octavius had convened meetings
reality of surival. His concepts of honour, tand friendship of many strong allies. Antony
and ways of deal1ng with open problems.
but thev are not practical in a soldier and can make a man overbearing, self - ighteous to discuss methods ofexposing hidden dangers
hand he condemns Cassius for news have on Cassius ?
and muddle - headed. His priorities get confused. On one Q. IV. What effect did this piece of existed
collecting monev by "vile means" and on the other he wants
to take the samemonev to
Ans. Cassius is deeply effected to hear of Brutus' loss. He knew of the bond of love that
with the reality of his plight and feels guilty forquarrelling
pay his troops. His values contradict his needs and are conflicting between Portia and Brutus, He grieves for Brutus' deep sorrow. He wonders at Brutus'
requirements and responsibilities. with him at a time when he was suffering such
0. V. How did this quarrel end ? How do each of them explain away their
tempers ? immense self-control and fortitude to bear such sorrow with courage.
revealed of his character with
Ans. The quarrel ends when Cassius becomes emotional and expresses pain
that Brutus, a Q. V. How does Brutus endure this person's death ? What is
He breaks
dear friend, should hate and rebuke him. He denies having refused the money. regard to this inident ?
down and bemoans the rift in their friendship and wants Brutus to kill him with
the Ans. In spite of loving Portia deeply Brutus bears his loss without giving away his feelings his
in
dagger he offers him. He despairs that he does not want to live anymore because he is public. The only sign he shows that he is upset is the loss of control he displays in
"hated by one he loves". Cassius pleads with Brutus to bear with his ill-temper in the quarrel with Cassius. It is only in private that he tells Cassius casually about Portia's
future as it was a fault he had inherited from his mother. Brutus also admits that
he had death. Brutus stoicism and moral courage at bearing the pain of Portia's death is
insulted Cassius in a fit of bad temper and in reality was a man as gentle as a lamb. His commendable. He has managed to discipline his emotions so well that he reveals great
temper was only short-lived and he actually meant no harm to Cassius. He loved him
as fortitude in bearing intense pain and despair. Bruus endures with "patience" Portia's
a brother and in future would ignore Cassius and leave him alone whern he was in a bad death whom he loved deeply. He controls his emotions and suffers inwardly without any
mood. public display of grief. Brutus reveals that he has an iron control over his intense emotions
and enlists our sympathies for his tragic loss.

Comprehension Passages 242 Arun Deep's LC.S.E. Julius Caesar

Comprehension Passages 243 Arun Deep's I.C.S.E. Julius Caesar
 6. Cassius.
This it is;
Tis better that the enemy seek us; strategic moves. He not only reveals his prowess as a nilitarv commander but also as d
So shall he waste his means, weary his soldiers ; judge of human character. If only Brutus would have accepted hrs sugzestions they cuid
have averted their defeat and personal tragedy But t 1s tragc ifony that Brutus fanls to
Doing himself offence, whilst we, lying still, Are full of rest, defence. recognise the military genius of Cassius and Cassius out of respect for his frend follows
and nimbleness. his leadership even though he1s an abler military commandef
Line. 199-202
Meanings: (i) seek - look. find. (i) waste - spend, use. (iüi)
means - resources. (i7)
7. Brutus. There is a tide in the affairs of men,
() offence - doing harm to himself. (vi) nimbleness - mobility, dexterity.weary - tire. Which, taken at the flood leads on the fortune;
Q.I. To whom does Cassius say these words ? Why ? Omitted, all the voyage of their life
Ans. Cassius says these words to Brutus when Brutus suggests Where? Is bound in shallows and in miseries.
that as Antony and
are coming to fight with them at Phillippi so they should march with their armiesOctavius
to meet
On such a full sea are we now afloat.
in battle at Phillippi. Cassius, Brutus and Messala are seated in Lines. 218-222
Sardis. Brutus tent at his camp at
Meanings: () tide in the affairs of men - such a current of affaurs in the ives of nen which must
Q. II. What do the words, "This it is" be tackled at the right moment to achieve success. () fortune- success, good luck ()
refer to ?
Ans. Cassius refers to his reason for not marching to Omitted - missed. (v) voyage of life-entire lafe (r) shallows - risks, dangers, disastefs
Phillippi to fight the armies of Antony
and Octavius. He tells Brutus that it would be better to let their 0. I. To whom does Brutus say these words ? When ? Where
and Octavius search for them. In doing so they would use their enemy, that is, Antony Ans. These words are spoken by Brutus to Cassius when Cassius tries to d1ssuade Brutus from
resources and tire their
soldiers. This would prove to be to their disadvantage. Meanwhile they would be strong taking the decision to march with ther forces to engage in a battle with the arrTies of
and their soldiers fresh, abounding with defensive power and Antony, Octavius and Lepidius at Ph1ll1ppi. They are in Brutus' tent in hus camp at Sard1s
Q. II. What important topics are they discussing ? What had mobility of troops.
Brutus suggested ? Q. II. What is the topic of discussion ?
Ans. They are discussing the number of senators that have been killed by the Ans. They are discussing their future course of action regard1ng a war with Antony. Octavius
through their list of proscription. They have come to know that Cicero hastriumviratealso been and Lepidius. Brutus had suggested that they should face the armies of the Triumv1rate
killed. Messala inquires about Portia's strange death. Brutus then asks them their opinions at Phillppi as they would then deprive them of the opportunity to recruit fresh forces and
about marching along with their forces to engage in battle at Phillippi with the armies of reinforce their supplies. Cassius had raised obyectons and put forward the reason that
the Triumvirate. Brutus suggests that they should fight Antony and they would gain the upper hand if they stayed at Sard1s and let the eneny loox for then
Octavius' armies at
Phillippi. The enemy supplies would tire. This would enable Brutus and Cassius armies to give
Q. IV. What reasons does Cassius give to support his them strong resistance. But Brutus remains firm in his deasion.
opinion ? Is he right ?
Ans. Cassius tries to convince Brutus that it would be wiser not to Q. III. Does the person spoken to agree with Brutus ?
march with their armies to
fight the Triumvirate at Phillippi. He puts forward strong Ans. Yes, Cassius agrees to abide by Brutus decision and follow him to Phill1ipp1 with hus
Cassius feels that it would be more advantageous for them toreasons to dissuade Brutus.
let the enemy look for them troops.
instead. The enemy forces would use their resources and their soldiers Q. IV. What arguments does Brutus give for sticking to his views ?
out searching for them. Meanwhile their resources would be would get tired
would be fresh and full of strength, strong in their defensiveunexhausted as their soldiers Ans. Brutus refers to a belief of the sailors to justify his decision. He tells Cassius that they
powers and with their have gathered the full support of their allies and their troops are well -equipped to fight
mobility intact. Their supplies would be in plenty. Cassius is proved right in the light of and their defence is strong. So at that moment their ide is at the highest level If they
later events.
Q. V. What argument does the person spoken to present on this
delay it will recede meaning that opportunity would have been lost and then they would
only face low tide or lack of the right opportunity. The flood-tide must be tackled at the
Ans. Brutus is the person Cassius speaks to. Brutus tells Cassius thattopic
? Is he right ?
the people between Sardis right moment otherwise they would fail. Iif men do not seize the highest point in the
and Phillippi are with then under compulsion and current of their lives their future would be a failure and d1saster and suffenng would be
the armies of the enemy march through these areas have joined them reluctantly. When the outcome. Brutus tells Cassius that sim1larly they were now at the point of high tide in
they
soldiers. Hence the enemy force would be refreshed and would be able to recruit more their lives and must avail the opportun1ty or else they would lose everything
on their part to deprive their enemy of these reinforced. So it would be wiser
advantages by meeting their forces in battle Q.V. What is revealed of Brutus' character in this extract ?
at Phillippi. This is Brutus' last major
he had made. misjudgement and their defeat proves the blunder Ans. Brutus again reveals that he is aphilosopher and rel1es heavily on mere abstractions. He
0. VI. What is
does not have much of an idea of the real1ty of life. His decisions are based on theoretical
revealed of Cassius' character through this concepts and he fails to accept the advice of more practical and real1stic men like Cass1us
Ans. Once again Cassius reveals that he is a shrewd extract? One of the major causes of his tragedy is his failure to deal with real1ty and to phulosoph1se
suggestion he makes in the above lines depicts histacticion
and military general. The
astute mind and understanding of every decision. He is not a practical and decisive character like Cassius.
Comprehension Passages 244 Arun Deep's I.C.S.E. Julius Caesar Comprehension Passages 245 Arun Deep's IC.S.E. Jul1us Caesar
 8. Brutus. How ill this taper burns ! burns!
Ha !Who comes here ? fCaesar nd t
"spri
Ithink it is the weakness of mine eyes, is wrong It is evident that he has not been able to destroy the
seeks revenge.
That shapes this monstrous apparition.
It comes upon me. Art thou anything ? B. Read Act IV scene IIIcarefully and answer the questions that follow precisely.
Art thou some god, some angel, or some devil, Q. I. Where does this scene take place ? What does Cassius accuse Brutus of ? What is Brutus
reaction ?
That mak'st my blood cold, and my hair to stare ? Ans. This scene takes place in Brutus tent in hs camp at Sard1s. Casstus accus Brutus ot
Speak to me what thou art.
having wronged him. He accuss Brutus of being unnecessarily harsh witth hus fried
Lines. 275-281 Lucius Pella for committing the minor offence of accept1ng bribes from the lcal Sardiars.
Meanings: () taper -candle. (ii) weakness of mine eyes -weak eyesight. (ii) monstrous apparition Cassius had appealed to Brutus in his letters to pardon Lucus Pella but Bruus had
- terrible appearance, ghost, spectre. (iv) comes upon me - comes towards me. (u) to condernned him. This angers Cassius as he feels Brutus has overtearngy disregerded
stare - to stand up, to bristle with apprehension or fear. his authority. Brutus, howevet, disagrees that bribery is aminor offence ard feels he was
Q. I. To whom does Brutus say these words ? When ? Where ? right in punishing Lucius Pella.
Ans. Brutus is in his tent in his camp at Sardis at night. Lucius had been
playing music on an Q. II. What does Brutus accuse Cassius of ? Why according to him has Cassius escaped
instrument but had fallen asleep. Varro and Claudius are also sleeping. The ghost of punishment?
Caesar appears and only Brutus can see him. Brutus' then speaks these words to the Ans. Brutus accuses Cassius of having an "itching paim" and of personally ccepting bribes
ghost as he cannot understand what it is. and selling appointment to the local Sardians who did not deserve them Brutus inplies
Q. II. Describe the setting of this part of the scene. that Cassius had escaped punishment due to his standing and high position
Ans. Brutus is reading at night in his tent while Lucuis, his boy servant, has fallen asleep Q. II. What does Cassius threaten to do ?What else does Brutus accuse him of ?How is this
a contradiction ?
playing on the instrument. Varro and Claudius are also sleeping. Brutus is disturbed by
a gust of wind and the candle flickers and burns low. The shadows lengthen as light Ans. Cassius threatens to kill Brutus if he does not control his tongue. He is enraged at the
becomes dim, Brutus lifts his head and sees the ghost of Caesar in front of him. The time accusations of corruption Brutus hurls at him and threatens to make it has last speech
Brutus also accuses him of not sending him gold and money to pay the salaries of his
of night, the gust of wind, the quietness, the flickering light, and the appearance of the troops. Brutus fails to realise that he is contradicting himself. He wants Cassius to give
terrible appearance of the ghost of Caesar heighten the tension and melancholy underlying
this scene.
him the same money which he has gathered by evil mearns, to pay his soldiers. Brutus is
muddleheaded and fails to realise that in times of war supplies and money are more
Q. III. Why is Brutus so confused when he sees this apparition ? important to a soldier than ideals of honour and integrity.
Ans. Brutus is confused because it is late at night and he unable to sleep and is reading, After Q. IV. What does Cassius do to end the quarrel ? Are his feelings for Brutus sincere ? How
along time since the assassination of Caesar Brutus has been able to find assemblance of does he explain his ill-humour ?
peace from his troubled state. He is calm and relaxed and suddenly the frightening ghost Ans. Cassius becomes emotional and gives into despair regretting the bittermess that has soured
appears. Brutus cannot understand whetherit is a god or a man and what had caused it their relationship. He offers his dagger to Brutus so that he may kill him since he does not
to appear before him. He is confused at the disturbance of his peaceful rest and doubts want to live when he is "hated by the one he loves". Cassius truly admired and loved
the reliability of his own senses and wants to find out who the strange visitor is. Brutus and had proved it even earlier by always following Brutus' leadership evern if he
Q. IV. What does the apparition say to Brutus ? did not fully agree with Brutus. Cassius begs Brutus to forgive him for his bad behavior
Ans. The ghost tells Brutus that he is his evil genius which is inherent in wing every man. The as he had inherited his ill-temper from his mother. He explains that he loved Brutus and
could never harm him.
ghost informs Brutus that he will again appear at Phillippi, thus, giving us a sense of O. V. How does Brutus explain his uncharacteristic anger ?
impending tragedy.
Q. V. What effect does this incident have upon Brutus ? Ans. Brutus also feels repentant and explains his uncharacteristic anger to be due to the
Ans. Brutus feels more bold and fearless once the spirit disappears. Brutus however is disturbed
problems and worries weighing heavily on his mind. He tells Cassius that he was normally
agentle and calm natured man but Portia's death by suicide had broken his self-control
and wants to find out whether it was real or just a creation of his confused and troubled and he had become tense and intolerant.
mind. He wakes Lucius and asks him why he had called in his sleep and if he had heard Q. VI. How did Portia die ?
or seen anything. He even awakens Claudius and Varro to inquire if they had seen Ans. Portia had been anxious and worried at the long separation from Brutus. The strengthening
anything. But no one besides Brutus had heard or seen the ghost. He even tries to get any of Antony and Octavius' armies had added to her worries about her husband. In astate of
confirmation of his vision from the guards. Brutus is disturbed and instructs Varro and despair, and unable to cope with the mental stress she had consumed a corrosive poison
Claudius to inform Cassius that he must start with forces for Phillippi some time before and committed suicide.
hand. Brutus is upset by the powerful manifestation of Caesar and can feel that something
sar
Comprehension Passages 246 Arun Deep's I.C.S.E. Julius Caesar Comprehension Passages 247 Arun Deep's I.C.S.E. Julius Caesar
 ?
tothe news
Q. VII, Whattisi Cassius response the news of Portia's death and
grievesfecls guilty for
deeplv saddened at
Ans, Cassius js loss. Hee for the
was suffering such tragic despa1r and regrets thar
with Brutus when he great loss to his friend, Brutus. Hee
death which had been a with immense fortitude and
at bear1ng such a great loss
praises
patience. Brutus (ragedy qouaftonn means, Cassius breaks down in
Cassius has collected by unfair He offers his dagger to Brutus to k1ll him as he
strain.
their relationship is underby one he loved" Brutus ismoved by CassIus emotional nad
does not
gesture
Q. VIII. What news does Messala bring? want to live when "hated suffering from many intense sorrows HIs wife, 'ortta
Octavius and Antony aro and explains that he is separation and due to anxiety at Antonysorry
and
Ans. Messala brings them the news that Phillippi. They are on their making commitled suicide because of their long geniunely feels
death of Ciwacero.yrepaloratfiaace
ight them with their powerful armies at grieves for his friend's loss and
forces of Brutus and Cassius at Phillippi. He
also confirms the Octavius growing strength. Cassius for his fortitide and courage in bear1ng
his pains stoicaliy
for Brutus and praises him confirm Cicero's death and also give the news about Antonv
Q. IX. What does Brutus suggest they do ? Titinius, Messala arrive and CassiUs
Ans. Brutus suggests that they also advance with their troops lo face the. Phillippitoengage in battle with Brutus and
and Octavius preparing to march tojudgement and decides to face the enemy at Phillipp1
deprive Antony
Otavius at Phillippi. He feels that they would thus, armies Antonya
'and ol Brutus again commits a blunder of
but fails. They all agree to march to
Phillippi
°PPortunity to recruit fresh soldiers and reinforce their supplics,
VA. On what grounds does Cassius disagree ? Were his reasons valid ?
Ans, Cassiusi disagrees on the grounds that by slaying away from Phillippi
Oclavius« Cassius tries to convince him otherwise
Alone, Brutus decides to read
long gap Brutus experiences peace and
and listens to Lucius playing on the instrument After a
relaxation. He reverts to h1s gentle nature
and
revealing
cushions in his tent. He lets Lucius sleep terr1ble
enemy suppltheyies would Varro and Claudius to sleep on
their enemy to the inconvenience of searching for them. The calls Brutus feels a gust of wind and the
his considerate and humane qualities. to wait for his next meeting at Phillipp1 Brutus
Used up and their soldiers exhausted and tired. Their position would
and Brutus and Cassius could then take advantage as their forces would suffer a swoul
ct
d appearance of Caesar's ghost warns him real1Ses that only he
if the others have seen the ghost. He and is worried The
their defences: strong and full of mobility. Cassius'reasons were valid be bak is upset and wants to find outmavbe tortured mind
correctretreshe
creation of his
events proved. They could have taken advantage by tiring the enemy and has seen it. He believes it is a
and melancholy
AI. Whose decision prevails ? What do they decide to do?
forces as late audience gets a heightened awareness of impending doom
Ans. However, Brutus'
decision prevails and they decide to march ahead with
face the enemy forces at Phillippi. their armies ty (Extra Comprehension Extracts)
Q.XI1. What does Brutus do when alone ? Who else is there with him ? 1. For Cassius is aweary of the world ;
Ans. Brutus decides to read Hated by one he loves; brav'd by his brother ;
T.ucius. He calls Varro and from. a book and listen to the music played on a Check'd like a bondman ; all his faults observ'd.
Q. XIII. How does Brutus Claudius to also sleep in his tent.
reveal the instrument
b; Lines. 95-97

Ans. Brutus reveals that he is gentlecompassion

and
in his nature ?
Meanings: () aweary -tired. (i) bravd- threatened. (i) check'd-rebuked,
scolded (v)observed
and Claudius to sleep on cushionscompassionate by nature. He
in his tent. He does not wantallows his guards, Var. examined, studied.
Lucius and lets him sleep. His to disturb Q.I. To whom does Cassius say these words? Why does he react in a such way ?
Q. XIV. What role does the thoughtful and humane nature is revealed the sleeping Ans. These words are spoken by Cassius to Brutus. He reacts in such a way because he feels
ghost of Caesar play in this scene ?
Ans, The ghost of Caesar shows that hurt and saddened to see that their friendship is drifting apart and their relationship atis
destroying Caesar's Caesars assassination had not achieved its strained. He is upset at their quarrel and the accusations and threats they are hurl1ng
remains indestructible.'spirit', Brutus had failed noble aim of
to destroy
Caesar's spirit and Caesarism each other. Cassius had always admired and loved Brutus and now was sad that they
in all men. The Caesars ghost also serves to remind us of the were no longer as close as they had been.
appearance of the ghost heightens the tension and gives evil that lurks inherenh
ofimpending doonm and disaster. us an awareness Q. II. Who is the person he feels hates him ? Are Cassius' feelings genuine ?
General Comments : Ans. Cassius feels Brutus hates him because he is insulting him and quarreling with him. Cassius
This scene opens with the genuinely admires and loves Brutus and cannot bear their strained relationship. He had
always followed Brutus lead even though he was a more able soldier and could have
shielding his friend Luciusquarrel between Brutus
Pella who is guilty ofand Cassius. Brutus accuses Cassius of assumed the leadership.
n

angry with Brutus because he has disregarded his accepting bribes. Cassius in turn is
Brutus further aceuses appeals and
. II. What gesture does Cassius make to end the quarel ?How do they explain their ill
vile means. He tells Cassius himself of selling condemned his friend. humours ?
Cassius is infuriated Cassius that he appointments and
at the insults has "itching palms" and a collecting gold by Ans. Cassius offers his dagger to Brutus to kill him as he could not bear to be "hated by one he
Brutus at the same time tells Brutus hurls and threatens to greed lose
for personal gains. loved." Brutus also explains his ill-temper and says that it was the outcome of his burden
troops. This is ironical Cassius that he had refused to control and kill him. of sorrows. His wife Portia had died by consuming poison and he was suffering intense
because Brutus is asking give him
for a part of the money to pay his sorrow and despair. Cassius also feels guilty at quareling at a time when his friend is
same money which undergoing such tragedy. He asks for forgiveness for his quick temper inherited from his
Comprehension Passages 248 mother. He praises Brutus for his fortitude and courage in bearing his sorrows. aesar
Arun Deep's I.C.S.E. Julius
Caesar Comprehension Passages 249 Arun Deep's I.C.S.E. Julius Caesar
 2. Brutu,
The people twixt Phillippi and this ground
Do stand but in a fore'd affecton;
Por they have grudg'd us contribution ;
The eneny, marching along by them,
By them shall make a fuller number up
Come on refresh'd, new-added, and encourage'd;
l'or which advantage shall we cut him off. Lines. 204 - 210 Me.
MeaningN : () twixt- between. (i) forced affection- unwilling support, friends by compulsion.
money. (v) a
() grudged-reluctantly given. (iv) contribution - support, supplies
tuller number up - increase their troops by fresh recruitments.
Q. I. To whom is Brutus speaking ? Who is the enemy spoken of ?
of
Ans. Brutus is speaking to Cassius in his tent at his camp in Sardis. They are speaking
Antony, Octavius and Lepidu, their enemy in the forth comíng battle.
Q. II. What suggestion had been given by Cassius with which Brutus disagreesnot? march to
Ans. Cassius had suggested that they should let the enemy look for them and would use
them
I'hillippi to face them. Cassius feels that the enemy while searching for be refreshed
their troops would
up its resources and tire its soldiers. On the other hand
and their defences strong and mobility intact.
Q. I. What do they decide to do ? Who is proved correct in the light of later events ?
that they would march with
Ans. Brutus does not accept Cassius suggestion. It is decided that Brutus had committed
their troops to Phillippito face the enemy. Later events prove
his final error of judgement by not agreeing with Cassius' suggestion.
significance of this visit ?
Q. IV. Who visits Brutus when he is alone in his tent ? What is the
appears, unseen and unheard
Ans. When Brutus is alone, reading in his tent the ghost of Caesar of Caesar and upsets
by Lucius, Varro and Claudius. The ghost is a terrible manifestation with the assassination
Brutus as he realises that Caesarism has not been destroyed even
showing to him the
of Caesar. It could also be a creation of his tortured and guilty mind melancholy
evil inherent in all men. The appearance of the ghost heightens the sense of
and impending doom and disaster.

bmprehension Passages 250 Arun Deep's I.C.S.E. Julius Caesar