Welcome to our blog post dedicated to dissecting Act 2, Scene 1 of William Shakespeare’s timeless masterpiece, Julius Caesar. As avid learners and educators, we understand the importance of grasping the nuances of Shakespearean literature, and that’s why we’ve curated this comprehensive guide specifically tailored to the ICSE curriculum.
In this blog, we’ll delve into the depths of Act 2, Scene 1, utilizing the meticulously crafted workbook provided by Morning Star publishers. Our aim is to not only provide you with multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and long-form answers but also to empower you with a deeper understanding of the themes, characters, and language intricacies within this iconic play.
It’s important to note that while we offer structured responses based on the workbook, we encourage students to use this resource as a foundation for their own exploration. Shakespeare’s works are renowned for their richness and versatility, allowing ample room for interpretation and analysis. Therefore, feel free to adapt and modify our insights to suit your individual learning style and requirements.
So, whether you’re a student looking to ace your exams or a literature enthusiast eager to unravel the mysteries of Julius Caesar, join us on this enlightening journey through Act 2, Scene 1. Let’s embark on an adventure where words transcend time, and the legacy of Shakespeare continues to captivate minds across generations.
( Updated For ICSE 2026 Session )
Table of Contents
Workbook Summary :
So far we have been out in the streets and public places of Rome. Now we enter a man’s home. Brutus is alone in his garden in the middle of the night , unable to sleep and calling his servant to bring him a taper so that he can read in his study. Then Brutus gives way to his troubled thoughts. Brutus expresses an extreme horror of the idea of kingship; he has no personal grudge against Caesar but feels that Caesar’s death will be for the general good of Rome.
Lucius comes back with one of the anonymous letters (written, as we know by Cassius), which he has found on the windowsill of Brutus’ study. By the light of the meteors, Brutus reads the message urging him to save Rome. He promises to take action.
The conspirators, led by Cassius and Casca, enter, and Brutus welcomes them, While Cassius and his host engage in whispered conversation, Casca, Cinnna, Decius, Metellus Cimber, and Trebonius are occupied in trivial talk about compass directions. Cassius has suggested that they take a mutual oath of faithfulness but Brutus does not agree: it is enough for him that they are true Romans and that their cause is just. Cassius then brings up the question of inviting the aged Cicero to join the plot, but Brutus reminds them that Cicero is most irresolute and will never follow any policy consistently to the end. Cassius feels, too, that Mark Antony, “so well beloved of Caesar,” should not be allowed to outlive the Dictator. Once again, Brutus overrides him: Antony will be quite powerless,he assures them, once Caesar is dead, and they must not appear as bloody butcher before the citizens. Besides, Antony is not to be taken seriously since he devotes his life to sports, to wildness, and much company.’ Again Brutus has his way to the future ruin of their fortunes.
The clock strikes three. Cassius asks what would happen if Caesar is frightened by the signs and portents and refuses to come to the Senate meeting. Decius says that he can make Caesar to come by flattering him. Then they agree to meet at eight in the morning to escort Caesar to the Capitol. The conspirators, except Brutus, leave.
Brutus is joined by Portia. Brutus asks Portia why she is up so early. She throws the question back at him and complains that he has been behaving unnaturally for some days.
Workbook MCQs :
1. Why is Brutus having sleepless nights?
(a) Because of the stormy weather outside.
(b) Because of his inner turmoil.
(c) He is suffering from insomnia.
(d) Because of his fear of being a co-conspirator against Caesar.
Answer :-(b) Because of his inner turmoil.
2. Which of the following is NOT true about Brutus’ feelings for Caesar?
(a) He loves Caesar.
(b) Caesar’s death will be for the good of Rome.
(c) He has a personal grudge against Caesar.
(d) He fears the people would choose Caesar as their king.
Answer :- (c) He has a personal grudge against Caesar.
3. Brutus does not agree with Cassius on the issue of taking mutual oath becauce he considers
(a) they are true Romans fighting for a just cause.
(b) they are true Romans fighting for an unjust cause.
(c) it is below their dignity to take an oath,
(d) it is an attempt to take their test.
Answer :- (a) they are true Romans fighting for a just cause.
4. Why does Brutus not want Cicero to join the group of conspirators?
(a) Cicero is Caesar’s trustworthy
(b) Cicero is known for shifting loyalties
(c) Cicero is indecisive
(d) Cicero is irresolute
Answer :-(d) Cicero is irresolute.
5. Why is Brutus against killing Antony after the murder of Caesar?
(a) Antony will be powerless after Caesar’s death
(b) Antony devoted his life to sports and wildness
(c) They must not appear as butchers to the people.
(d) Al of the above.
Answer :-(d) All of the above.
6. How does Decius Brutus say he would persuade Caesar to come to the Senate?
(a) By flattery
(b) By deceit
(c) By persuasion
(d) By showing fear
Answer :-(a) By flattery.
7. According to Cassius, what could prevent Caesar from coming to the Senate?
(a) The signs and portents given by the storm
(b) The warning given by the Soothsayer
(c) The report given by his loyal friends
(d) All of the above
Answer :- (a) The signs and portents given by the storm
8. What is Portia’s complaint against Brutus?
(a) He has been ignoring her
(b) He has been talking to strangers
(c) He has been behaving unnaturally
(d) He has been sleepwalking
Answer :-(c) He has been behaving unnaturally.
9. With whom does Portia compare herself?
(a) Her uncle, Brutus
(b) Her legendary mother
(c) Her father, Cato
(d) None of the above
Answer :- (c) Her father, Cato
10. Portia pleads with Brutus to share his secret with her claiming which of the following?
(a) Equal rights of wifehood
(b) Being his childhood friend
(c) Being his well-wisher
(d) Being his close confidant
Answer :-(a) Equal rights of wifehood.
11. What does ‘darkness’ signify in this scene?
(a) Fear in Brutus’ mind
(b) Suspicion in Brutus’ mind
(c) Confusion in Brutus’ mind
(d) Calmness in Brutus’ mind
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12. Which literary device is used in this scene to reveal Brutus’ confused state of mind ?
(a) Anaphora
(b) Soliloquy
(c) Personification
(d) Irony
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13. Which argument does Brutus give to convince himself to join the conspirators against Caesar?
(a) Once crowned, Caesar would get them killed
(b) Once crowned, Caesar would cause end of Rome
(c) Once crowned, Caesar would become uncontrollable
(d) None of the above.
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14. Brutus uses which of the following phrases for Caesar?
(a) Butcher of butchers
(b) Slayer of Rome
(c) Devil’s soul
(d) Serpent’s egg
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15. Brutus justifies his act of joining the conspirators to assassinate Caesar by defining it as
(a) moral and necessary
(b) spiritual and purifying
(c) cleansing and moralising
(d) worldly-wise and needful
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16. Which of the following acts of Brutus, after joining the conspirators, does NOT indicate his dictatorial behaviour?
(a) Vetoes the inclusion of Cicero
(b) Objects to the killing of Antony
(c) Accedes to the plan of brutally murdering Caesar
(d) Agrees to killing Antony.
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17. While pleading with Brutus, Portia appeals to which of his traits?
(a) His sense of honour
(b) His sense of pride
(c) His sense of friendship
(d) His sense of loyalty
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18. Why do the conspirators want to win over Brutus to their side?
(a) His integrity and personal reputation in Rome
(b) His method of planning and executing.
(c) His sharp knowledge of Republicanism
(d) His love for Caesar
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19. Which characteristic trait of Caesar does Decius Brutus’ character reveal in this scene?
(a) Patriotism
(b) Loyal friend
(c) Betrayal of friendship
(d) Irritable vanity
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20. In his mind how does Brutus justify killing Caesar?
(a) Spiritual and Purifying
(b) A necessary evil
(c) Vanquishing Rome’s foe
(d) Both (a) and (b)
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Workbook Questions :
Question No: 1
Lucius
I will, my lord.
Brutus (Exit)
It must be by his death: and, for my part,
I know no personal cause to spurn at him,
But for the general. He would be crown’d:
How that might change his nature, there’s the question:
It is the bright day that brings forth the adder;
And that craves wary walking.
(i) Where does this scene take place? Who is Lucius? What has he been asked to do?
Answer :- The scene takes place in Brutus’ orchard in Rome. Lucius is Brutus’ loyal servant, who is often seen assisting Brutus in his daily tasks. Brutus has asked Lucius to bring a lit candle to his study so he can read. This simple request shows Brutus’ preoccupation with his thoughts, as he is deeply troubled by the political situation in Rome and the growing power of Caesar, which he fears will lead to tyranny. Lucius’ obedience and loyalty highlight the domestic setting, contrasting with the heavy political decisions being made.
(III) Who has convinced Brutus to take such a step? What is the motive of Brutus for taking such a decision as expressed in the extract? What does it reveal about Brutus?
Answer :- Cassius has convinced Brutus to join the conspiracy against Caesar. Brutus’ motive is to protect Rome from Caesar’s potential tyranny, as he fears that absolute power will corrupt Caesar. This decision reveals that Brutus is a man of principle and patriotism, willing to sacrifice personal relationships for the greater good. However, it also shows his idealism and naivety, as he underestimates the consequences of his actions. Brutus’ decision reflects his belief in the Republic and his willingness to act for what he perceives as the greater good, even if it involves moral compromise.
(iV) What danger does Brutus foresee if the person is crowned as a king? How is this danger expressed by referring to the “bright day” and the “adder”?
answer:- Brutus fears that if Caesar is crowned king, he will become a tyrant. He uses the metaphor of a bright day bringing out a venomous snake (adder) to illustrate this danger. Just as a snake becomes active and dangerous in warm weather, Brutus believes that the crown will bring out Caesar’s true, tyrannical nature. This comparison highlights Brutus’ belief that power corrupts and that Caesar must be stopped before it is too late. The metaphor emphasizes the hidden danger that Brutus perceives in Caesar’s ambition, which he believes will manifest once Caesar gains absolute power.
(v) What are your feelings for Brutus at this juncture? Give two reasons to justify your feelings.
Answer:- At this point, I feel a mix of admiration and concern for Brutus. On one hand, his patriotism and willingness to sacrifice for Rome are commendable. He genuinely believes that killing Caesar is necessary to protect the Republic. On the other hand, his decision is based on speculation about what Caesar *might* become, which makes his actions seem unjust and extreme. His idealism blinds him to the potential consequences, making him both noble and tragic. Brutus’ actions are driven by his love for Rome, but his lack of foresight and understanding of human nature ultimately leads to his downfall.
Question No: 2
Brutus
So Caesar may;
Then, lest he may, prevent. And, since the quarrel
Will bear no colour for the thing he is,
Fashion it thus; that what he is, augmented,
Would run to these and these extremities;
And therefore think him as a serpent’s egg,
Which, hatch’d, would, as his kind, grow mischicvous,
And kill him in the shell.
(i) “So Caesar may.” What may Caesar do? Your answer must refer to the metaphor of the ladder, used by Brutus in his speech. How does Brutus intend to prevent Caesar from doing so?
Answer :- Brutus fears that Caesar may climb the “ladder of ambition” and become a tyrant. The metaphor of the ladder represents Caesar’s rise to power, where each step brings him closer to absolute rule. Brutus believes that Caesar’s humility is merely a tool to gain support, and once he reaches the top, he will discard the ladder and rule oppressively. To prevent this, Brutus decides to kill Caesar before he can ascend to absolute power. This metaphor reflects Brutus’ belief that ambition, once unleashed, cannot be controlled, and Caesar must be stopped before he becomes unstoppable.
(iII) What is meant by “augmented”? How can Caesar be augmented? How had there already been an attempt to augment him?
Answer :- “Augmented” means increased or enhanced. Caesar can be augmented by being crowned king, which would give him absolute power and elevate his status beyond that of a senator. An attempt to augment him was made during the Feast of Lupercal, when Antony offered him the crown three times. Although Caesar refused it, Brutus believes that Caesar’s ambition will eventually lead him to accept such power. This reflects Brutus’ fear that Caesar’s ambition will grow unchecked if he is not stopped.
(iV) To whom isa “serpent’s egg” compared? What does Brutus want to communicate by using comparison of a “serpent’s egg’?
answer:- The “serpent’s egg” is compared to Caesar. Brutus uses this comparison to communicate that Caesar, like a serpent’s egg, has the potential to become dangerous if allowed to grow. He argues that Caesar must be killed before he can “hatch” into a tyrant. This metaphor reflects Brutus’ belief that it is better to eliminate a potential threat now than to wait for it to become a reality. It also highlights Brutus’ fear of the unknown and his willingness to act preemptively.
(v) What price would Brutus pay later by preventing a “serpent’s egg” from being hatched?
Answer:- Brutus pays a heavy price for his actions. His decision to kill Caesar leads to a series of tragic events, including the death of his wife Portia, the loss of his reputation, and ultimately his own death. Additionally, his actions trigger a civil war that destroys the very Republic he sought to protect. Brutus’ idealism and miscalculation of the consequences make his story deeply tragic. His belief in the righteousness of his cause blinds him to the chaos and destruction that follow, leading to his personal and political downfall.
Question No: 3
Brutus
Tis good. Go to the gate; somebody knocks.
[Exit Lucius]
Since Cassius first did whet me against Caesar,
I have not slept.
Between the acting of a dreadful thing
And the first motion, all the interim is
Like a phantasma, or a hideous dream:
The genius and the mortal instruments
Are then in council; and the state of man,
Like to a little kingdom, suffers then
The nature of an insurrection..
(i) To what does Brutus reply, “Tis good.” Who is knocking at the gate? Why has he come?
Answer :- Brutus replies “Tis good” to Lucius, who has brought him a letter. The person knocking at the gate is Cassius, who has arrived with other conspirators to discuss their plan to assassinate Caesar. Cassius’ arrival marks the beginning of the conspiracy’s active phase, as they finalize their strategy and prepare to carry out their plot against Caesar. This moment signifies the transition from contemplation to action, as Brutus and the conspirators move closer to their fateful decision.
(III) In what type of mental frame is Brutus? Why does he compare his mental condition to a nightmare or a horrid dream?
Answer :- Brutus is in a state of inner turmoil and anxiety. He compares his mental condition to a nightmare because he is haunted by the moral dilemma of killing Caesar, which feels like a dreadful and unreal situation. The weight of his decision and the fear of its consequences create a sense of unease and confusion, making him feel as though he is trapped in a terrifying dream. This comparison reflects Brutus’ deep emotional and psychological struggle as he grapples with the enormity of his decision.
(IV) Give the meaning of:
(a) all the interim is like a phantasma.
Answer :- (a) The time between deciding to act and actually acting feels like a terrifying illusion or nightmare. Brutus is overwhelmed by the moral and emotional weight of his decision, making the waiting period feel surreal and nightmarish. This reflects his inner conflict and the psychological toll of his impending actions.
(b) the genius and the mortal instruments/ Are then in council.
Answer :- (b) The mind (genius) and the body (mortal instruments) are in conflict, debating the right course of action. This reflects Brutus’ internal struggle between his rational mind, which tells him Caesar must die, and his emotions, which are troubled by the idea of betraying a friend. The metaphor highlights the division within Brutus as he tries to reconcile his thoughts and feelings.
(v) In the last Lines of the extract, the mental condition of Brutus is compared to a civil war. Explain how the comparison is made.
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Question No: 4
Brutus
They are the faction. O conspiracy,
Sham’st thou to show thy dangerous brow by night,
When evils are most free? O, then, by day
Where wilt thou find a cavern dark enough
To mask thy monstrous visage? Seek none, conspiracy;
Hide it in smiles and affability:
For if thou path, thy native semblance on,
Not Erebus itself were dim enough
To hide thee from prevention.
(i) Who comes after this extract? How are they dressed? Who informs Brutus of their arrival?
Answer :- After this extract, the conspirators arrive, including Cassius, Casca, Decius, Cinna, Metellus Cimber, and Trebonius. They are dressed in cloaks with their hats pulled down to hide their faces, ensuring they remain unrecognizable. Lucius, Brutus’ servant, informs Brutus of their arrival. This secrecy reflects the dangerous nature of their mission and the need to avoid detection. The conspirators’ attire also symbolizes their desire to conceal their identities and intentions, as they prepare to carry out their plot against Caesar.
(iII) How does conspiracy disguise itself at night and during the day?
Answer :- At night, conspiracy hides in the darkness, ashamed to reveal itself, as evil deeds are often carried out under the cover of night. During the day, conspiracy masks itself with smiles and friendly behavior to avoid suspicion. Brutus suggests that conspiracy must remain hidden at all times, as its true nature is too dangerous to be exposed. This duality reflects the deceptive nature of their plot and the need for secrecy to ensure its success. The conspirators must appear harmless and friendly during the day while plotting their dangerous mission at night.
(iV) What is referred to as “Erebus”? If conspiracy were to appear with its “native semblance on,” what would happen?
answer:- “Erebus” refers to the darkness of the underworld in Greek mythology, symbolizing deep and impenetrable darkness. Brutus suggests that even the darkness of Erebus would not be enough to hide the conspiracy if it were to reveal its true nature. If conspiracy were to appear in its “native semblance” or true form, it would be immediately exposed and prevented from succeeding. This emphasizes the need for secrecy and the dangerous consequences of being discovered. The reference to Erebus highlights the extreme measures required to conceal their plot.
(v) Why is it necessary to disguise the conspiracy? Give two of the Precautions taken by the conspirators to hide the conspiracy.
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Question No: 5
Brutus
What need we any spur but our own cause,
To prick us to redress? what other bond
Than secret Romans, that have spoke the word,
And will not palter? And what other oath
Than honesty to honesty engagd,
That this shall be, or we will fall for it?
(i) Who are referred to as the “we? What is “our own cause”? State in your own words how the cause itself is a spur.
Answer :- The “we” refers to the conspirators, who are united in their mission to assassinate Caesar. “Our own cause” is their shared goal of protecting Rome from Caesar’s potential tyranny. The cause itself is a spur because it motivates them to act without needing external encouragement. Their commitment to justice and freedom drives them to take drastic measures, even at great personal risk. The conspirators believe that their cause is noble and just, and this belief fuels their determination to carry out their plan. Their shared purpose binds them together and gives them the courage to act.
(iII) Explain what is meant by “honesty to honesty engag’d”. Why is honesty very important for Brutus and his men?
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(iV) Give the meaning of:
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(v) According to Brutus, who normally takes an oath? How does Brutus convince his group to uphold Roman nobility rather than depend on an oath?
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Question No: 6
Brutus
O, name him not: let us not break with him;
For he will never follow any thing
That other men begin.
Cassius
Then leave him out.
Casca
Indeed he is not fit,
Decius
Shall no man else be touch’d but only Caesar?
(i) Who is “him”? What did Brutus want to leave him out of? What reason had just been given in his favour?
Answer :- The person referred to as “him” is Cicero, a respected Roman senator. Brutus wants to leave Cicero out of the conspiracy to assassinate Caesar. The reason given in Cicero’s favor is that he is a wise and experienced statesman who could provide valuable insight and support. However, Brutus argues that Cicero is too independent and would not follow a plan initiated by others, making him unsuitable for their mission. This decision reflects Brutus’ desire to maintain control over the conspiracy and his reluctance to include anyone who might challenge his leadership.
(iII) What is the meaning of “touch’d” here? Who else, does Cassius now mention should be “touch’d”? What is his reason?
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(iV) Brutus overrides Cassius. Why? What does it reveal about Brutus?
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(v) In his turn, Cassius does not agree with Brutus’ ideas. State the objection put forth by Cassius and tell how his objection was later justified.
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Question No: 7
Cassius
Yet I fear him;
For in the ingrafted love he bears to Caesar—.
Brutus
Alas, good Cassius, do not think of him.
If he love Caesar, all that he can do
Is to hImself, — take thought and die for Caesar
And that were much he should; for he is given
To sports, to wildness. and much company
Trebonius
There is no fear in him; let him not die;
For he will live, and laugh at this hereafter.
[Clock strikes]
(i) What is the occasion for the dialogue? What is meant by “ingrafted love”? Name the person being talked about in the dialogue.
Answer :- The occasion for the dialogue is the conspirators’ discussion about whether to kill Mark Antony along with Caesar. “Ingrafted love” refers to the deep and unwavering loyalty that Antony has for Caesar. The person being talked about is Mark Antony, who is seen as a potential threat due to his close relationship with Caesar. The conspirators debate whether Antony’s loyalty makes him a danger to their cause and whether he should be eliminated to ensure their success.
(iII) Why does Trebonius say that there is no cause to fear that man?
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(iV) Give the meaning of:
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(v) Which of the three men prove to be right and in what way?
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