The Tragedy of Julius Caesar

With New and Updated Critical Essays and a Revised Bibliography Edition 2
by Shakespeare, William

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The Tragedy of Julius Caesar

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Though the Plebeians support Julius Caesar and celebrate his return from Rome as the play opens, Caesar is famously warned to "Beware the ides of March," by the Soothsayer. Meanwhile, Caesar`s popularity is such that the other Roman aristocrats, who rule as a body along with Caesar, fear that his popularity will cause the Plebeians to name him their King, breaking with Roman tradition. Reminding Brutus of a historic revolt led by his own ancestors, Cassius stirs Brutus`s sense of purpose. When Brutus and Cassius are alone with one of Caesar`s men, they learn that the Plebeians have indeed thrice offered Caesar the throne, which he repeatedly demurred. Cassius muses to himself that Brutus is easily manipulated, and plans to present him with spurious letters from angry citizens purportedly expressing disapproval of Caesar`s rise. Egged on by conspirators and troubled by a sleepless night, Brutus resolves to lead the conspiracy in assassinating Caesar. Despite mounting bad omens and an additional warning from the Soothsayer, Caesar attends the Senate session, meeting his death with particular awe when he realizes that his good friend, Brutus, is behind the deed. Antony incites a riot when he exalts the leadership of the late Caesar in an address to the Plebeians. With chaos dividing the government, the ghost of Julius Caesar appears to Brutus with a haunting promise that the two will meet again. Based on an entry recorded in a contemporary diary, it is assumed that JULIUS CAESAR was written in 1599. It was immensely popular in its own day, and endures as one of Shakespeare`s most frequently staged productions.