Welcome to our blog post dedicated to dissecting Act 4, Scene 3 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 4, Scene 3, 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 4, Scene 3. Let’s embark on an adventure where words transcend time, and the legacy of Shakespeare continues to captivate minds across generations.
Table of Contents
Workbook Summary :
The whole scene is called the quarrel scene . Brutus and Cassis continue their conversation within the former’s tent in Sardis. Cassius explains the causes of his annoyance. Lucius Pella has been disgraced by Brutus for taking bribes in Sardis; and Cassius’ letters pleading leniency out of loyalty to Lucius Pella have been brushed aside. Cassius is annoyed because Brutus ignored his opinion and also that Brutus should take so seriously a minor offence when they are facing a military crisis. Brutus accuses Cassius of being susceptible to bribery. He tells Cassius that they killed Caesar in the name of justice and that Caesar had given his protection to robbers. Brutus implies that Cassius is a robber and unworthy of having joined the honourable cause of assassinating Caesar.
Cassius is angry and he declares that if they were not old friends he would certainly kill Brutus for such a slander. Brutus reminds Cassius that he recently sent to him for certain sums of gold to pay his legions and that these amounts were not forthcoming. Cassius denies this, claiming that the messenger who took his answer back had misrepresented it. Cassius then offers his breast to Brutus’ dagger, Brutus stifles his companion’s agitation and the quarrel ends; they shake hands.
Brutus informs Cassius that Portia is dead. Cassius expresses great sorrow and asks the cause of her death. Brutus tells him that, unable to endure her husband’s absence and becoming more anxious on hearing that Antony and Octavius had made themselves so strong, she took her own life by swallowing burning coals. At this point, Lucius enters with bowls of wine, the two leaders drink as a sign of their reconciliation, and are joined by Lucilius, Titinius, and Messala. Messala brings reports that Antony and Octavius are advancing with a mighty power’ in the direction of Philippi, and they have put to death some senators, including Cicero.
Now a plan of action against Antony and Octavius is discussed; and once more, Brutus rejects Cassius’ sound advice. Cassius favours awaiting the enemy at Sardis, forcing Antony and Octavius to stretch their lines of supply. Brutus, however, fears that the local population have no goodwill towards their cause and will certainly join the enemy. So he suggests that they advance to Philippi and engage Antony and Octavius before these people get a chance to switch their loyalties. Reluctantly, Cassius agrees to this strategy. Then Brutus, after sending Lucius for his dressing-gown, bids good-night to the others. Left alone with his servant, Brutus instructs two of his soldiers, Varro and Claudis, to sleep near the entrance of his tent, and asks Lucius to play his instrument.
Once again, Brutus is alone at night and unable to sleep. He sits reading. The ghost of Caesar appears. Brutus wonders whether he is imagining it, but we see the Ghost and hear it speak. It calls itself Brutus’ ‘evil spirit’. All it has come to announce is that Brutus will see it at Philippi. The phrase ‘at Philippi’ is heard three times and then the Ghost vanishes.
Workbook MCQs :
1. According to Cassius, how has Brutus done wrong to him?
(a) By calling him a trusthworthy of Caesar
(b) By condemning Lucius Pela for taking bribes
(c) By brushing aside his letters in defence of Lucius Pela
(d) Both (b) and (c).
Answer :- (d) Both (b) and (c).
2. Why does Brutus remind Cassius of the month of March?
(a) To remind him of his cruelty
(b) To remind him that Caesar was murdered for the sake of justice
(c) To remind him of the similar fate awaiting him
(d)None of the above
Answer :- (b) To remind him that Caesar was murdered for the sake of justice
3. What does Brutus say he would like to be rather than be a Roman with a low character ?
(a) An ass
(b) A horse
(c) A dog
(d) None of the above
Answer :- (c) A dog
4. With whom has Brutus compared Cassius’ irritable mood?
(a) A wasp
(b) A snake
(c)A dog
(d) A lion
Answer :- (a) A wasp
5 In which trait does Cassius say he is better than Brutus?
(a) Soldier
(b) Orator
(c) Planner
(d) Organiser
Answer :- (a) Soldier
6. Why does Brutus ask Cassius for certain sum of money?
(a) He cannot ask anybody else
(b) He cannot take it from Caesar’s legacy
(c) He cannot raise it himself by foul means
(d) All of the above
Answer :- (c) He cannot raise it himself by foul means
7. What would Brutus do to raise money rather than using foul means?
(a) Convert his property into money
(b) Convert his enemies into his friends
(c) Convert his heart into pieces of money
(d) None of the above.
Answer :- (c) Convert his heart into pieces of money
8. Who would overlook a friend’s fault, according to Brutus?
(a) A selfish man
(b) A flatter’s eye
(c) An arrogant man
(d) An evil man
Answer :- (b) A flatter’s eye
9. With whom has Brutus compared his gentle nature?
(a) A goat
(b) A mule
(c) Alamb
(d) None of the above
Answer :- (c) A lamb
10. How does Brutus carry anger within his nature?
(a) As a flint carries fire
(b) As a drop of water
(c) As a match stick
(d) As a wick of a candle
Answer :- (a) As a flint carries fire
11. Wha reason does Brutus give for his anger?
(a) Hig misfortune
(b) His grief
(c) His failures
(d) None of the above
Answer :- For Full Answers Get The Workbook Answers PDF – View
12. How did Portia die?
(a) By jumping from Mount Olympus
(b) BY drowning in the sea
(c) By swallowing poison
(d) By swallowing burning coals
Answer :- For Full Answers Get The Workbook Answers PDF – View
13. What was Brutus’ fear in waiting for the enemy at Sardis?
(a) Local population would attack them
(b) Local population would join the enemy
(c) The enemy would approach them from other side
(d) All of the above.
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14. Messala brings the news of killing of which of the following senators by Antony and Octavius?
(a) Lecilius
(b) Titinus
(c) Cicero
(d) Cassius
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15. What does the ghost of Caesar stand for?
(a) Spirit of Caesar, restless for revenge
(b) Spirit of Caesar, restless for saving Roman Republic
(c) Spirit of Caesar, restless for being betrayed by Brutus
(d) None of the above.
Answer :- For Full Answers Get The Workbook Answers PDF – View
Workbook Questions :
Question No: 1
Brutus
You wrongd yourself to write in such a case.
Cassius
In such a time as this it is not meet
That every nice offence should bear his comment.
Brutus
Let me tell you, Cassius, you yourself. . .
(i) Where are Brutus and Cassius at this time? State briefly what charge Brutus lays against Cassius.
Answer :- Brutus and Cassius are likely in a private location, perhaps within their camp. Brutus accuses Cassius of wronging himself by writing in a certain manner or about a certain issue.
(iI) What had Cassius just complained of, to make Brutus say, “You wronged yourself”? Explain the meaning of Brutus’ words
(iII) What advice is Cassius giving Brutus in this extract? Do you think that Cassius was being practical?
Answer :- Cassius is advising Brutus not to criticize every minor offense or mistake during such critical times of crisis and conflict. He suggests that it’s not appropriate to scrutinize every small fault or action when there are larger issues at hand. This advice can be seen as practical in the context of their military situation, where unity and focus are essential for success.
(iV) What did Brutus accuse Cassius of when he said, “Let me tell you yourself…”? How did Cassius react to this?
answer:- Brutus accuses Cassius of being too sensitive or defensive, implying that Cassius himself exhibits the behavior he criticizes in others. Cassius reacts defensively, likely feeling insulted or challenged by Brutus’ accusation.
(v) In the argument which continues between these two, Brutus accuses Cassius of other faults. Point out two of these faults, and say how Cassius reacted to these accusations. Do you think Brutus was being fair to Cassius?
Answer:- Brutus accuses Cassius of being greedy and of accepting bribes, among other faults. Cassius reacts defensively and denies these accusations, expressing frustration with Brutus’ perceived lack of trust. Whether Brutus was being fair to Cassius is subjective and depends on the context of their relationship and the specific events leading up to their argument.
Question No: 2
Brutus
The name of Cassius honours this corruption,
And chastisement doth therefore hide his head.
Cassius
Chastisement!
Brutus
Remember March, the ides of March remember:
Did not great Julius bleed for justice’ sake?
What villian touch’d his body, that did stab,
And not for justice? What, shall one of us. . .
(i) What sort of corruption is referred to in the extract? What has been the reaction of Cassius, just before this extract, to this accusation?
Answer :- In the extract, Brutus accuses Cassius of being corrupt, implying that his actions or character are dishonorable or morally compromised. Cassius reacts with surprise and perhaps indignation to this accusation, as indicated by his single-word response, “Chastisement!”
(iI) What does the ides of March signify to them? For which purpose did Brutus say that Julius bled “for justice sake”?
Answer :- The ides of March signifies the day when Julius Caesar was assassinated. Brutus suggests that Caesar’s assassination was justified as an act of justice, implying that Caesar’s ambition and tyranny warranted his downfall. Brutus believes that Caesar’s death was necessary to uphold justice and preserve the Republic.
(iII) Give two examples from this scene to indicate that Brutus was really angry with Cassius.
Answer :- Two examples of Brutus’s anger towards Cassius in this scene are:
- Brutus accusing Cassius of corruption, suggesting that his actions dishonor their cause.
- Brutus reminding Cassius of the assassination of Caesar, implying that Cassius should remember the importance of justice and honor in their actions.
(iV) Explain briefly the bitter irony involved in the quarrel over money between Brutus and Cassius.
answer:- The bitter irony in the quarrel over money between Brutus and Cassius lies in the fact that they are arguing about financial matters while preparing for a significant battle against Antony and Octavius. Their disagreement over money highlights their personal tensions and priorities, which detract from the larger cause they are fighting for.
(v) State briefly how the disagreement between Cassius and Brutus was resolved.
Answer:- The disagreement between Cassius and Brutus is resolved when they reconcile and reaffirm their commitment to their cause. Despite their differences, they recognize the importance of unity and solidarity in facing their enemies.
Question No: 3
Brutus
By the gods,
You shall digest the venom of your spleen,
Though it do split you; for, from this day forth,
I’ll use you for my mirth, yea, for my laughter,
When you are waspish.
Cassius
Is it come to this?
Brutus
You say you are a better soldier:
Let it appear so; make your vaunting true,
And it shall please me well. For mine own part,
I shall be glad to learn of noble men.
(i) Give the meaning of: “You shall digest the venom of your spleen,/ Though it do split you.” What does Brutus say he will use Cassius for?
Answer :- “You shall digest the venom of your spleen, Though it do split you” means that Brutus is telling Cassius that he will endure Cassius’s bitterness and anger, even if it harms Cassius in the process. Brutus says he will use Cassius for his own amusement and entertainment, particularly when Cassius is being irritable or angry (“waspish”).
(iI) Give two examples of the taunts which Brutus had indulged in earlier which makes Cassius say, “Is it come to this”? (Do not use the material used for answering question (i) above.)
Answer :- Two examples of taunts by Brutus earlier in the scene are:
- “Remember March, the ides of March remember” when Brutus reminds Cassius of Caesar’s assassination and implies that Cassius should remember the cause of justice.
- “The name of Cassius honours this corruption” when Brutus accuses Cassius of being corrupt or dishonorable.
(iII) Under what conditions had Cassius made the statement that he was a better soldier than Brutus? How accurate is Cassius’ assessment of himself as a soldier? Give reasons for your answer.
Answer :- Cassius had made the statement that he was a better soldier than Brutus during their argument. Cassius may have made this statement out of frustration or to assert his own authority. However, the accuracy of Cassius’ assessment of himself as a soldier is debatable. While Cassius is a skilled military leader and tactician, Brutus also possesses strong leadership qualities and strategic thinking. Cassius may excel in certain aspects of warfare, but Brutus’s commitment to principle and honor also make him a formidable leader on the battlefield.
(iV) What is meant by “vaunting”? How could Cassius prove his vaunting at this point of time?
answer:- “Vaunting” means boasting or bragging about one’s abilities or achievements. Cassius could prove his vaunting by demonstrating his prowess as a soldier in battle, showing bravery, skill, and leadership. At this point in time, Cassius could back up his claims by leading their forces effectively in the upcoming conflict with Antony and Octavius.
(v) While Brutus and Cassius are arguing, a strange visitor enters the scene. Who is he? What is the purpose of his visit? How does Brutus react to his arrival
Answer:- While Brutus and Cassius are arguing, a strange visitor enters the scene. This visitor is the ghost of Caesar, who appears to Brutus and delivers a cryptic message about their meeting at Philippi. The purpose of his visit is to foreshadow the impending battle and to remind Brutus of his role in Caesar’s assassination. Brutus reacts with surprise and disbelief at first, but eventually accepts the message as a portent of their fate at Philippi.
Question No: 4
Cassius
There is my dagger,
And here my naked breast; within, a heart
Dearer than Pluto’s mine, richer than gold:
If that thou be’st a Roman, take it forth.
I, that denied thee gold, will give my heart:
Strike, as thou didst at Caesar; for, I know,
When thou didst hate him worst, thou lov’dst him better
Than ever thou lov’dst Cassius.
(i) In what state is Cassius? Why is his heart richer than gold?
Answer :- Cassius is in a state of despair and desperation, as indicated by his offer to Brutus to take his dagger and strike him. His heart is considered richer than gold because it symbolizes his deep sincerity, loyalty, and commitment to their cause. Unlike material wealth, Cassius’s heart represents his genuine devotion and friendship towards Brutus.
(iI) Who is Pluto? Why is Cassius’ heart compared to Pluto’s mine?
Answer :- Pluto is the Roman god of the underworld, associated with wealth and riches buried beneath the earth. Cassius compares his heart to Pluto’s mine to emphasize its value and preciousness, suggesting that his innermost feelings and emotions are more valuable than any material wealth found in the earth.
(iII) When did Cassius deny gold to Brutus? Why did the latter need the gold? What explanation did Cassius give for not giving the gold?
Answer :- Cassius denied gold to Brutus when the latter needed funds to pay his soldiers. The denial occurred during their argument in Act 4, Scene 3, where Cassius refuses to provide the requested gold due to concerns about the state of their treasury. Cassius explains that their resources are limited and they cannot afford to distribute gold freely.
(iV) What reply does Brutus give to Cassius after this extract?
answer:- After Cassius’s impassioned speech, Brutus responds by embracing him, expressing his forgiveness and understanding. Brutus recognizes Cassius’s sincerity and loyalty, and their reconciliation marks a significant moment of unity and solidarity between the two leaders.
(v) What is the dramatic importance of this dialogue? In what way does it influence the subsequent course of action in the play?
Answer:- This dialogue serves as a turning point in the relationship between Brutus and Cassius. Cassius’s emotional outburst and willingness to sacrifice himself for their cause highlight the depth of his loyalty and commitment. Brutus’s forgiveness and acceptance signify the strength of their bond and unity, which are crucial as they prepare for the impending battle against Antony and Octavius. Additionally, this scene adds emotional depth and complexity to the characters, shaping their motivations and actions in the subsequent events of the play.
Question No: 5
Cassius
Portia, art thou gone?
Brutus
No more, I pray you.
Messala, I have here received letters,
That young Octavius and Mark Antony
Come down upon us with a mighty power,
Bending their expedition towards Philippi.
Messala
Myself have letters of the self-same tenor.
(i) Where has Portia gone? Why is Brutus so abrupt as to wave aside the though of Portia? What does it show us of his nature?
Answer :- Portia has died by swallowing burning coals due to her distress over her husband’s absence and the growing strength of Antony and Octavius. Brutus is abrupt in waving aside the thought of Portia because he is emotionally overwhelmed by her death and does not want to dwell on it further. This abruptness shows that Brutus is struggling to cope with his grief and may be trying to suppress his emotions.
(iI) Who is Messala? What is the “self-same tenor” of which Messala speaks?
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(iII) What other news does Messala give just after this extract?
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(iV) What does Brutus come to know (from the letters he received) about octavius and Antony? Where does Brutus plan to meet the enemy?
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(v) How strong had Octavius and Antony made themselves ? What was the fate of Cicero ?
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Question No: 6
Brutus
You must note beside,
That we have tried the utmost of our friends.
Our legions are brim-full, our cause is ripe.
The enemy increaseth every day;
We, at the height, are ready to decline.
There is a tide in the affairs of men,
Which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune;
Omitted, all the voyage of their life
Is bound in shallows and in miseries.
(I) To whom is Brutus giving the arguments in the extract? What is meant by“Our legions are brim-full, our cause is ripe”?
Answer :- Brutus is giving the arguments to his fellow leaders, likely Cassius and other military commanders. “Our legions are brim-full, our cause is ripe” means that their armies are fully equipped and prepared, and their cause is ready or mature for action.
(II) Give two arguments of Brutus to indicate that his military strength is in an advantageous position.
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(III)Brutus says , “The enemy increaseth every day.” State how it increases every day
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(iV) “There is a tide in the affairs of men” What comparison is made between the voyage of life and the voyage on sea?
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(v) According to Brutus, “On such a full sea are we now afloat.” How is this statement valid?
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Question No: 7
Brutus
How ill this taper burns—Ha! who comes here?
I think it is the weakness of mine eyes
That shapes this monstrous apparition.
It comes upon me. Art thou any thing?
Art thou some god, some angel, or some devil,
That mak’st my blood cold, and my hair to stare?
Speak to me what thou art.
(i) To whom does Brutus speak in the extract? What is the setting of the scene during this time?
Answer :- Brutus speaks in the extract while he is alone, likely in his tent or a secluded area. The setting is during the night, as indicated by Brutus mentioning the burning of a taper (candle) and the darkness around him.
(iI) What is the “apparition” referred to in the extract? Why is it said to be “monstrous”?
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(iII) What does Brutus wonder about the apparition? What is the effect of the apparition on Brutus?
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(iV) What does the apparition say to Brutus? What is the significance of what the apparition says to Brutus?
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(v) Who else was present at the scene? Did they see the apparition? State whether the apparition was the product of Brutus’ imagination. Give a reason to justify your answer.
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