THE TRAGEDY OF JULIUS CAESAR
Act V
Scene 1
1. What flaw does Antony Accuse Brutus and Cassius accuse Antony?
2. Name the animal images that Antony uses to describe the conspirators. What is
their effect?
3. Why does Shakespeare have the four generals come together to exchange threats
and insults?
4. What figure of speech is Casssius using and its purpose in the lines, “Why, now
blow wind, swell billow, and swim bark! The storm is up, and all is on the
hazard.”
5. Compare Cassius’ omens to those described by Calphurnia in Act II, Scene 2.
What does this comparison do?
6. Describe Cassius as he prepares to do battle.
7. Define Brutus’ beliefs concerning suicide.
8. Describe Brutus and Cassius and their relationship as they say good-bye to one
another.
Scene 2
No questions
Scene 3
9. Explain what has happened since Brutus and Cassius parted.
10. What does Pindarus assume based on what he sees from the top of the hill?
11. Explain why Cassius cannot be described as a tragic hero.
12. Explain Cassius’ state of mind right before his death.
13. What does Pindarus mean when he says he would not be free “durst I have done
my will”?
14. What good news does Messala bring? How does it turn to bad news?
15. What do you learn about Cassius’ character by the reactions of Messala and
Titinius to his death?
16. Why does Brutus evoke the name of Julius Caesar?
17. Summarize Brutus’ speech. What is his major concern?
Scene 4
18. Describe the traits that belong to Messala, Titinius, Cato, and Lucilius by their
actions and dialogue.
19. What character traits does Anotny show in his response to Lucilius’ admission
that he is not actually Brutus?
Scene 5
20. What evidence in Brutus’ dying scene indicates that he is a tragic hero?
21. How are the final words of Brutus and Cassius similar?
22. Why does Antony feel that Brutus should be honored?
23. What contrasting concerns does Octavius mention?