Name: ____________________________
Julius Caesar Persuasive Essay
Your task is to convince me that either Julius Caesar or Marcus Brutus would have been the
better leader for Rome. You will write a persuasive essay that will without a doubt convince me
that your choice is what’s best for the Roman people.
Step One:
Decide what qualities are important for a leader of Rome. First, brainstorm at least fifteen words
that describe a good leader. Then narrow your choices down to the top five most important
qualities. List them below with one sentence describing why you think they are the most
important.
Brainstorming:
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2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Top Five Qualities for a good leader:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
Step Two:
Decide who exhibits your top five qualities better, Caesar or Brutus?
Write your choice here: ________________________________
Below list one example from the play when your choice demonstrates each of your top five
qualities. Remember, a character can display a character trait in what they say, what they do, and
what they think, as well as what others might say about them. Record the trait, the example, and
the Act, scene and lines.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Step Three:
Write a five paragraph persuasive essay that persuades me that either Brutus or Caesar would
have made the better leader for Rome. Your thesis statement should be one of the following:
Brutus would have made the best leader for Rome. OR
Caesar would have made the best leader for Rome.
Write an introductory paragraph, then three supporting paragraphs that explain the characteristics
of a good leader and how your choice exhibits those characteristics. Finally, write a brief
concluding paragraph.
This paper is due on: ____________________________ Attach
this document to it.