Get notes, workbook solutions, summary, questions and answers, and pdf of the drama/play Julius Caesar (Act 5 Scene 3) by William Shakespeare, which is part of ICSE Class 10 English. However, the notes should only be treated as references, and changes should be made according to the needs of the students.
Summary
The scene takes place after a major battle at Philippi between the forces of Brutus and Cassius on one side, and Antony and Octavius on the other side. The scene begins with Cassius and his friend Titinius on the battlefield. Cassius’ own forces are being defeated by Antony’s army, though he is unaware that Brutus has been victorious against Octavius.
In a state of rage and despair, Cassius sends Titinius to scout some troops in the distance to find out if they are friends or foes. He also asks his servant Pindarus to climb a hill and monitor Titinius from that vantage point. Pindarus reports back that he saw Titinius surrounded by cheering soldiers, making Cassius believe Titinius has been captured.
Devastated at the perceived capture of his dear friend, Cassius resolves to kill himself. He reminds Pindarus that he had previously spared Pindarus’ life in Parthia, and now demands Pindarus return the favor by killing him with the same sword that killed Caesar. Despite Pindarus’ reluctance, Cassius forces him to stab him to death. With his dying words “Caesar, thou art revenged,” Cassius dies believing he has been defeated. Pindarus then flees.
Titinius soon returns unharmed with Messala, having actually been welcomed by Brutus’ victorious troops. Finding Cassius dead is a terrible blow, and the grieving Titinius kills himself with the same sword. Messala leaves to bring Brutus the tragic news.
When Brutus arrives, he delivers a sorrowful eulogy calling Cassius “the last of all the Romans” and arranging for his body to be honorably sent to Thasos for burial. Though shaken by his friend’s death, Brutus shows resilience in ordering his forces to prepare for another battle against Antony and Octavius that very night.
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Workbook answers
Multiple Choice Questions I
1. Cassius commits suicide by asking to be stabbed by
a. Pindarus b. Strato c. Voluminous d. Young Cato
Answer: a. Pindarus
2. Brutus’ troops defeated the army of
a. Octavius b. Antony c. Lepidus d. Strato
Answer: a. Octavius
3. “The sun of Rome is set” was the tribute paid to Cassius by
a. Brutus b. Titinius c. Octavius d. Antony
Answer: b. Titinius
4. Brutus sends the body of Cassius to
a. Parthia b. Thasos c. Sardis d. Philippi
Answer: b. Thasos
5. Brutus at the end of the scene prepares for
a. a second battle b. third battle c. reconciliation d. death
Answer: a. a second battle
Context questions I
QUESTION 1
CASSIUS-Go Pindarus, get higher on that hill
My sights was ever thick, regard Titinius
Ans tell me what thou not’ st about the field.
PINDARUS – (Above) O my Lord!
CASSIUS- What news?
1. What does Cassius ask Pindarus to do? Who is Pindarus?
Answer: Cassius instructs Pindarus to ascend a hill to gain a better view of the battlefield and report back on what he observes, specifically regarding Titinius’ situation among distant troops. Pindarus is a bondman or slave of Cassius, who had been saved by Cassius from death in Parthia and is thus deeply obligated to him.
2. After the exit of Pindarus, what does Cassius say about himself?
Answer: After Pindarus departs, Cassius reflects on the significance of the day, noting it as both the beginning and the potential end of his life. He acknowledges that the cycle of his life has come full circle: “This day I breathèd first — time is come round, And where I did begin, there shall I end. My life is run his compass.”
3. What news has Pindarus already brought? What is Cassius’ reaction on hearing the news?
Answer: Before his final task, Pindarus reports that Titinius is surrounded by horsemen who seem to be attacking him, which leads Cassius to mistakenly believe that Titinius has been captured or is in grave danger. Cassius reacts with despair and determination, concluding that it’s better to die than to witness the capture or loss of his close friend: “O coward that I am, to live so long, To see my best friend ta’en before my face!” This despair leads him to decide on suicide as the course of action.
4. Why is the day significant to Cassius apart from being his ‘birthday’ the day he was born?
Answer: The day is significant to Cassius not only because it is his birthday but also because he sees it as a full circle of his life, from its start to its end. He believes that the day he was born is now the day he will die, marking a complete cycle of his existence.
5. What had Cassius earlier advised Brutus in the play to prove that this tragedy could be prevented? Cassius disagreed with Cassius?
Answer: Cassius had advised Brutus on several strategic matters throughout the play, emphasizing caution and the need to act on opportune moments. One significant piece of advice was his disagreement with Brutus over the strategy to engage Antony and Octavius’ forces. Cassius had preferred more cautious approaches at times, including the debate over whether to march to Philippi or wait for the enemy to come to them. The tragedy unfolds partly because of strategic errors and misjudgments, including Brutus’ overeagerness and mistaken beliefs about the battlefield situation.
QUESTION 2
MESSALA – Mistrust of good success hath done this deed
O hateful error. Melancholy’s child
Why dost thou show to the apt thoughts of men
The things that are not?
1. What was the ‘mistrust’ of good success? What error did Cassius make? How did his pessimism lead to his suicide?
Answer: The ‘mistrust of good success’ refers to Cassius’ incorrect interpretation of the events on the battlefield, particularly his misreading of Titinius’ situation based on Pindarus’ report. Cassius’ error was his hasty conclusion that Titinius had been captured or killed, which was a result of his pessimism and the misunderstanding of the shouts of joy as signals of Titinius’ demise. This led him to decide on suicide, believing his cause was lost and wishing not to live to see the complete defeat of his side.
2. Why is Pindarus called for? Who leaves the scene? Why?
Answer: Pindarus is called upon by Cassius to perform the act of killing him, as per an earlier oath Pindarus had taken to serve Cassius even to the extent of assisting in his suicide if required. After fulfilling Cassius’ wish and killing him, Pindarus leaves the scene, claiming his freedom but also expressing a wish to flee far from any Roman’s notice, carrying the burden of having killed his master.
3. What does Titinius do to himself? Why?
Answer: Upon returning and finding Cassius dead, Titinius is overcome with grief and guilt, believing that Cassius’ misunderstanding and subsequent suicide were due to the misinterpretation of the situation involving Titinius. In his sorrow and loyalty to Cassius, Titinius decides to kill himself with the same sword that Cassius used, viewing it as a final act of solidarity and honor towards his friend.
4. When Brutus enters the scene a little later, he refers to Julius Caesar. Why? What tribute does he pay to Cassius?
Answer: When Brutus arrives and sees the bodies of Cassius and Titinius, he reflects on the ongoing influence of Julius Caesar even after his death, suggesting that Caesar’s spirit is still powerful and impactful, leading to internal conflict and self-destruction among those who conspired against him. Brutus pays tribute to Cassius by calling him “the last of all the Romans,” acknowledging his valor and the tragic end of a noble Roman. He expresses deep sorrow and vows to find time to mourn Cassius properly, indicating respect and loss.
QUESTION 3
BRUTUS-Are yet two Romans living as these
The last ofall the Romans, fare thee well. It is impossible that ever Rome, should breed thy fellow.
1. Explain the line “The last of all the Romans”
Answer: “The last of all the Romans” is a tribute paid by Brutus to Cassius, signifying Cassius as the epitome of Roman virtues and values, such as honor, bravery, and commitment to the Republic. Brutus implies that with Cassius’ death, the era of true Romans – those embodying the ideal qualities of Roman citizenship and character – has ended.
2. About which two Romans is Brutus speaking about?
Answer: Brutus is speaking about Cassius and Titinius. He refers to both as exemplars of Roman virtue and valor, mourning their deaths as a significant loss to Rome and symbolizing the end of an era of noble Romans.
3. Where does Brutus send Cassius’ dead body? Why does he propose to send his body to that place?
Answer: Brutus decides to send Cassius’ body to Thasos for burial. He proposes this to avoid holding the funeral in their camp, likely to prevent demoralizing their troops and to maintain morale in the face of upcoming battles. It reflects his concern for the welfare and spirit of his soldiers, as well as respect for Cassius by ensuring a proper burial away from the immediate conflict.
4. What instructions are given by Brutus at the end of the scene?
Answer: At the end of the scene, Brutus instructs his companions to prepare for another engagement with the enemy. He orders Labeo and Flavius to set their battles on, indicating his determination to continue fighting despite the setbacks and the loss of Cassius.
5. How does this extract reveal an important aspect of Brutus’ character?
Answer: The extract reveals Brutus’ capacity for deep loyalty and respect for his comrades, his resilience in the face of adversity, and his commitment to the cause they are fighting for. Despite the tragic loss of Cassius and Titinius, Brutus remains focused on the task at hand and the larger goal they are striving towards. His actions and words demonstrate his leadership qualities, his moral integrity, and his dedication to Rome, even in moments of personal grief and strategic disadvantage.
Morning Star Workbook Solutions
Multiple Choice Questions II
1. In what condition were Cassius’ troops in this scene?
(a) Defeated by Antony’s forces they surrendered
(b) They were celebrating their victory over Antony’s forces
(c) Defeated by Antony’s forces they were retreating
(d) None of the above.
Answer: (c) Defeated by Antony’s forces they were retreating.
2. What were Brutus’ troops doing after their victory over Octavius?
(a) They became indisciplined and started looting
(b) They got too engrossed in celebration
(c) They ran to help Cassius’ troops
(d) None of the above.
Answer: (a) They became indisciplined and started looting.
3. Who says that he has to act as enemy to his own soldiers?
(a) Brutus
(b) Cassius
(c) Mark Antony
(d) Octavius Caesar
Answer: (b) Cassius.
4. Cassius tells Pindarus to observe Titinius from a hill because of which deformity of his (Cassius)?
(a) Weak eyesights
(b) Weak legs
(c) Weak heart
(d) None of the above
Answer: (a) Weak eyesights.
5. According to Cassius, his birthday would also be a day of his
(a) victory over the enemy
(b) death
(c) retreat
(d) surrender
Answer: (b) death.
6. To whom does Cassius refer to in this scene as his “best friend”?
(a) Brutus
(b) Pindarus
(c) Lepidus
(d) Titinius
Answer: (d) Titinius.
7. Who says the following sentence: “Caesar thou art revenged?”
(a) Cassius
(b) Brutus
(c) Antony
(d) Ocatvius
Answer: (a) Cassius.
8. Who has been referred to in this scene as, “The sun of Rome is set”?
(a) Ocatvius
(b) Cassius
(c) Brutus
(d) Pindarus
Answer: (b) Cassius
9. How does Titinius decide to prove himself as a brave Roman?
(a) By fighting Octavius and Antony
(b) By killing Antony
(c) By killing himself with Cassius sword
(d) None of the above
Answer: (c) By killing himself with Cassius’ sword.
10. Who is the “last of the brave Romans who have ever lived” as described Brutus?
(a) Cassius
(b) Titinius
(c) Pindarus
(d) All of the above
Answer: (d) All of the above.
11. Which of the following made Cassius commit sucide?
(a) Error of Judgement
(b) Cowardice
(c) Overconfidence
(d) Pride and Arrogance
Answer: (a) Error of Judgement.
12. Cassius’ suicide is in keeping with his desireto —
(a) achieve victory over his enemies
(b) live or die as a free man
(c) die for his friend Titinius
(d) None of the above
Answer: (b) live or die as a free man
Context Questions II
1.Cassius
O look, Titinius, look, the villains fly!
Myself have to mine own turn’d enemy;
This ensign here of mine was turning back;
I slew the coward, and did take it from him.
(i) Where does this scene take place? Who was the coward? Why did Cassius slay the coward?
Answer: This scene takes place on a battlefield near Philippi. The “coward” Cassius refers to is his own ensign (standard-bearer), who was attempting to retreat. Cassius slew him because the ensign was turning back in fear, and Cassius took the standard from him to prevent the retreat.
(ii) What did Titinius say about the error committed by Brutus? What were the immediate consequences of the error?
Answer: Titinius mentioned that Brutus gave the command to attack too early. As a result, Brutus’s soldiers began looting, and Antony’s forces were able to surround Cassius’s troops. This tactical mistake contributed to Cassius’s belief that they were losing the battle.
(iii) On what errand does Cassius now send Titinius? What does Cassius tell Pindarus to do for him?
Answer: Cassius sends Titinius on horseback to find out whether the approaching troops are friends or enemies. He instructs Pindarus to climb a hill and observe Titinius’s progress to report back what he sees.
(iv) Pindarus, Cassius’ slave enters. What does he say? How does his information seem to confirm Cassius’ fears?
Answer: Pindarus reports that Titinius is surrounded by horsemen and is eventually captured. This information confirms Cassius’s fears that they are losing the battle and that Titinius has been taken by the enemy.
(v) “What does Cassius think aloud while Pindarus is away? Why is the day significant to Cassius, in more ways than one?
Answer: While Pindarus is away, Cassius reflects on the day being his birthday, the same day he was born. He believes that just as his life began on this day, it is fated to end on this day as well. This personal significance makes the day particularly poignant for him as he faces his imminent death.
2.Titinius
I will be here again, even with a thought. [Exit]
Cassius
Go, Pindarus, get higher on that hill;
My sight was ever thick; regard Titinius,
And tell me what thou not’st about the field.
(i) Who are Titinius and Pindarus? Where are they at the moment?Why?
Answer: Titinius is a friend and ally of Cassius, while Pindarus is a servant or bondman to Cassius. They are on a hill during the battle of Philippi. Cassius has sent Titinius to find out whether the troops in the distance are friends or enemies, and he sends Pindarus up the hill to observe Titinius’s progress because Cassius’s eyesight is poor.
(ii) Explain the meaning of “even with a thought”. Why has Titinius to go?
Answer: The phrase “even with a thought” means very quickly or in an instant. Titinius has to go to determine whether the troops they see in the distance are allies or enemies so that Cassius can decide on his next course of action.
(iii) What report did Pindarus now give about Titinius? How did Cassius interpret this report?
Answer: Pindarus reports that Titinius is surrounded by horsemen who have approached him quickly, and he believes that Titinius has been captured because he hears shouts of joy from the troops. Cassius misinterprets this report, believing that Titinius has been taken prisoner by the enemy, leading him to despair.
(iv) What action did Cassius now take? How did the outcome of this action affect Pindarus? How did:-
(a) Titinius and
Answer: Cassius, believing Titinius has been captured and that the battle is lost, orders Pindarus to kill him with the same sword that Cassius used to kill Caesar. After Cassius’s death, Pindarus, now free, flees, lamenting that he would not have killed Cassius had he been given a choice.
(b) Brutus react to what Cassius did?
Answer: Titinius, discovering that Cassius has killed himself based on a mistaken belief, is grief-stricken. He places a wreath on Cassius’s head, which was meant to be a sign of victory, and then kills himself with Cassius’s sword. Brutus, upon finding the bodies, mourns the loss of Cassius and Titinius, recognizing the tragic error and lamenting that Caesar’s spirit still influences the events around them.
(v) Refer to, or quote, what Cassius said to Brutus earlier in the play to prove that this tragedy could have been avoided. What had Brutus replied to him then? Refer to another occasion when a somewhat similar mistake had been made by Brutus. What is your opinion of Brutus and Cassius in this connection?
Answer: Earlier in the play, Cassius had warned Brutus about the potential consequences of letting Antony speak at Caesar’s funeral, saying it could stir the public against them. Brutus dismissed this concern, believing that letting Antony speak would demonstrate their honour. This misjudgment led to the public turning against the conspirators. Similarly, Brutus made a strategic error in battle by attacking too soon, which contributed to their defeat and the subsequent misunderstandings that led to the deaths of Cassius and Titinius. My opinion is that Brutus, while noble and well-intentioned, often made decisions based on idealism rather than pragmatism, which led to tragic outcomes. Cassius, more pragmatic and cynical, foresaw these issues but was unable to prevent them due to Brutus’s influence and leadership. Their contrasting approaches highlight the tension between idealism and realism in leadership, ultimately leading to their downfall.
3.Cassius
Come hither.
In Parthia did I take thee prisoner
And then I swore thee, saving of thy life,
That whatsoever I did bid thee do
Thou shouldst attempt it. Come now, keep thine oath;
(i) What had Pindarus been looking at? What did he report on what he thought he saw?
Answer: Pindarus had been looking at Titinius as he was sent to check whether the approaching troops were friends or enemies. He reported to Cassius that he saw Titinius being surrounded by horsemen who then appeared to capture him. Pindarus mistakenly believed that Titinius had been taken prisoner by the enemy.
(ii) What is meant by “I swore thee”? What had Pindarus promised to do? What is he asked to do now?
Answer: “I swore thee” means that Cassius had made Pindarus swear an oath to follow any command he gave, in exchange for sparing his life when he was captured in Parthia. Pindarus had promised to obey Cassius in all things. Now, Cassius asks Pindarus to fulfill that oath by killing him with the same sword that had killed Caesar.
(iii) Narrate what has happened a few minutes earlier which makes Cassius desperate. Was Cassius noble in taking the final decision about himself? Give a reason to justify your answer.
Answer: A few minutes earlier, Cassius sent Titinius to identify the troops on the battlefield. He then sent Pindarus to observe Titinius’s progress from a higher vantage point. Pindarus mistakenly reported that Titinius was captured by the enemy, leading Cassius to believe that all was lost. This, combined with the belief that the battle had been lost, drove Cassius to desperation. In his despair, he chose to die by his own hand rather than face defeat. While his decision was driven by a sense of honor and desire to avoid the shame of capture, it was also based on a misunderstanding, suggesting that his action, though noble in intent, was tragically misguided.
(iv) What makes it difficult for Pindarus to keep his oath now?
Answer: Pindarus finds it difficult to keep his oath because it involves killing Cassius, the man who spared his life and whom he serves. Despite being bound by his oath, Pindarus is reluctant to carry out the act, as he expresses regret and distress after completing the task.
(v) What is the evil influence which drives Cassius towards self-destruction Should one believe in such influences? Why?
Answer: The evil influence driving Cassius towards self-destruction is his overwhelming despair and misinterpretation of the events around him, particularly the mistaken belief that Titinius has been captured and that the battle is lost. This leads to a fatalistic attitude and a sense of inevitability about his doom. Whether one should believe in such influences depends on one’s perspective; some might argue that such despair can cloud judgment and lead to poor decisions, while others might believe that external forces or fate play a role in such outcomes. However, it is generally considered wise to base decisions on rational thought rather than succumbing to despair or fatalistic thinking.
4.Titinius
What, Pindarus! Where art thou, Pindarus?
Messala
Seek him, Titinius, whilst I go to meet
The noble Brutus, thrusting this report
Into his ears: I may say, thrusting it;
For piercing steel and darts envenomed
Shall be as welcome to the ears of Brutus
As tidings of this sight.
(i) Where does this scene take place? Who are Titinius and Messala? Why have they come to the scene?
Answer: This scene takes place on a battlefield near Philippi. Titinius is a friend and officer serving under Cassius, and Messala is another officer and a loyal follower of Brutus. They have come to the scene to report the outcome of the battle to Cassius and Brutus.
(ii) Where has Pindarus gone? What has made him go away?
Answer: Pindarus has fled the scene after killing Cassius as per Cassius’s orders. He leaves because, having fulfilled his master’s command, he is now free and seeks to escape to avoid Roman retribution for his actions.
(iii) What report is Messala going to give to Brutus? Why would the report be like “thrusting something into Brutus’ ear?
Answer: Messala is going to report to Brutus that Cassius has died, believing mistakenly that Titinius was captured. The report would be like “thrusting something into Brutus’ ear” because the news of Cassius’s death will be as painful and shocking as being pierced by a weapon.
(iv) Titinius recollects that Brutus has sent a wreath of victory to be given to Cassius. What victory is referred to? What does Titinius do with the wreath? How did Cassius misinterpret the signs of victory?
Answer: The victory referred to is the successful battle by Brutus’s forces against Octavius’s troops. Titinius places the wreath on the dead Cassius’s brow as a sign of honor and respect. Cassius misinterpreted the signs of victory, believing that Titinius had been captured by the enemy, leading him to order Pindarus to kill him.
(v) State briefly how Titinius pays his respects to Cassius, his dead friend.
Answer: Titinius pays his respects to Cassius by placing the wreath of victory on Cassius’s brow, lamenting the misunderstanding that led to Cassius’s death. He then takes Cassius’s sword and kills himself with it, choosing to die alongside his friend.
5.Titinius
Alas, thou hast miscounstru’d every thing!
But, hold thee, take this garland on thy brow;
Thy Brutus bid me give it thee, and I
Will do his bidding. Brutus, come apace,
And see how I regarded Caius Cassius.
(i) Where is Titinius at this moment? Whom is he talking to? Why?
Answer: Titinius is on the battlefield, near the body of Cassius. He is speaking to the deceased Cassius. Titinius speaks to express his grief and remorse over Cassius’s death, which occurred due to a tragic misunderstanding. Titinius blames himself for not returning sooner and for the misinterpretation that led to Cassius’s suicide.
(ii) Explain the meaning of “misconstrued.” What are the things that had been misconstrued? For what reason?
Answer: The word “misconstrued” means misunderstood or interpreted incorrectly. In this context, Cassius misconstrued the situation on the battlefield, believing that Titinius had been captured by the enemy. This misunderstanding led Cassius to believe that they had lost the battle, prompting him to take his own life. In reality, Titinius had not been captured; instead, he was being welcomed by friendly troops. Cassius’s misjudgment of the situation led to unnecessary tragedy.
(iii) What was the “garland” a sign of? Why did Brutus send it?
Answer: The “garland” was a sign of victory. Brutus sent it to Cassius as a symbol of success in battle, to reassure him that they were still in a strong position despite the chaotic events on the battlefield. It was meant to celebrate their victory over Octavius’s forces, but unfortunately, Cassius did not live to receive this token in the intended spirit.
(iv) Explain the meaning of “regarded.” How did Titinius now show his regard? What did Brutus say about Titinius and Cassius when he arrived?
Answer: The word “regarded” in this context means “paid respect to” or “honored.” Titinius showed his regard for Cassius by placing the garland, which was meant as a symbol of victory, on Cassius’s brow as a final gesture of respect. Upon Brutus’s arrival, he mourned the deaths of both Titinius and Cassius, lamenting that Caesar’s spirit still had the power to turn their own swords against themselves. Brutus honored them by acknowledging their greatness, referring to them as the last of the true Romans, and expressing his deep sense of loss.
(v) This scene shows the beginning of the end for the conspirators. What reason does Brutus give for what he saw? Explain how his reason is proved to be true in his own case later
Answer: Brutus interprets the tragic deaths of Cassius and Titinius as a sign that Julius Caesar’s influence continues to haunt them, even from beyond the grave. He believes that Caesar’s spirit is causing them to turn their swords on themselves. This foreshadows Brutus’s own fate, as he too will later take his own life, driven by the despair and realization that their cause is doomed, further fulfilling the notion that Caesar’s death marked the beginning of their own downfall.
6.Brutus
Are yet two Romans living such as these?
The last of all the Romans, fare thee well!
It is impossible that ever Rome
Should breed thy fellow
(i) Where is Brutus? About whom is he speaking?
Answer: Brutus is on the battlefield, observing the aftermath of a failed battle. He is speaking about Cassius and Titinius, who have both died.
(ii) To whom does he refer to as “The last of all the Romans” Why?
Answer: Brutus refers to Cassius as “The last of all the Romans” because he believes that Cassius represented the final true Roman, embodying the values and spirit of Rome. Brutus expresses his sorrow and respect for Cassius, acknowledging that there will never be another Roman like him.
(iii) Give a brief but clear account of the events which immediately precede this speech and give rise to it.
Answer: Before this speech, Cassius, mistakenly thinking that his friend Titinius has been captured and that the battle is lost, asks his servant Pindarus to kill him with the same sword that killed Caesar. After Cassius’ death, Titinius, realizing that Cassius misunderstood the situation and that they had actually won the battle, kills himself with Cassius’ sword. Brutus arrives on the scene to find both Cassius and Titinius dead, which leads him to lament the loss of Cassius, calling him the last of the true Romans.
(iv) This event combined with another factor caused the death of Brutus a little later. Explain briefly.
Answer: The deaths of Cassius and Titinius deeply affect Brutus, contributing to his sense of despair and inevitability of defeat. Combined with the mounting pressure from the opposing forces led by Antony and Octavius, these events lead Brutus to ultimately take his own life later in the play, as he sees no hope for their cause.
(v) What instructions does Brutus now give his friends?
Answer: Brutus instructs his friends to send Cassius’ body to Thasos for burial, as he does not want the sight of Cassius’ dead body to dishearten his troops. He then prepares his remaining forces for another battle against their enemies, determined to continue the fight despite the heavy losses.
Extras
Multiple Choice Questions III
1. What misunderstanding leads Cassius to order his own death?
A. He believes Brutus has betrayed him
B. He thinks Antony’s army has won
C. He is convinced Titinius has been captured
D. He is certain his troops have deserted him
Answer: C. He is convinced Titinius has been captured
9. How does Cassius describe his life as he prepares for death?
A. As a tragic error
B. As a noble journey
C. As a completed circle
D. As a battle lost
Answer: C. As a completed circle
Questions and Answers III
1. Cassius O, look, Titinius, look, the villains fly!
Myself have to mine own turned enemy. T
his ensign here of mine was turning back;
I slew the coward and did take it from him.
i. Where does this scene take place? Who was the coward? Why did Cassius slay the coward?
Answer: This scene takes place on a battlefield near Philippi. The “coward” Cassius refers to is his own ensign, who was attempting to retreat. Cassius slew him because the ensign was turning back in fear, and Cassius took the standard from him to prevent the retreat.
ii. What did Titinius say about the error committed by Brutus? What were the immediate consequences of the error?
Answer: Titinius mentioned that Brutus gave the command to attack too early. As a result, Brutus’s soldiers began looting, and Antony’s forces were able to surround Cassius’s troops. This tactical mistake contributed to Cassius’s belief that they were losing the battle.
iii. On what errand does Cassius now send Titinius? What does Cassius tell Pindarus to do for him?
Answer: Cassius sends Titinius on horseback to find out whether the approaching troops are friends or enemies. He instructs Pindarus to climb a hill and observe Titinius’s progress to report back what he sees.
iv. Pindarus, Cassius’ slave enters. What does he say? How does his information seem to confirm Cassius’ fears?
Answer: Pindarus reports that Titinius is surrounded by horsemen and is eventually captured. This information confirms Cassius’s fears that they are losing the battle and that Titinius has been taken by the enemy.
v. What does Cassius think aloud while Pindarus is away? Why is the day significant to Cassius, in more ways than one?
Answer: While Pindarus is away, Cassius reflects on the day being his birthday, the same day he was born. He believes that just as his life began on this day, it is fated to end on this day as well. This personal significance makes the day particularly poignant for him as he faces his imminent death.
5. Titinius Alas, thou hast misconstrued everything!
But, hold thee, take this garland on thy brow;
Thy Brutus bid me give it thee, and I
Will do his bidding.
Brutus, come apace,
And see how I regarded Caius Cassius.
i. Where is Titinius at this moment? Whom is he talking to? Why?
Answer: Titinius is on the battlefield, near the body of Cassius. He is speaking to the deceased Cassius. Titinius speaks to express his grief and remorse over Cassius’s death, which occurred due to a tragic misunderstanding. Titinius blames himself for not returning sooner and for the misinterpretation that led to Cassius’s suicide.
ii. Explain the meaning of “misconstrued.” What are the things that had been misconstrued? For what reason?
Answer: The word “misconstrued” means misunderstood or interpreted incorrectly. In this context, Cassius misconstrued the situation on the battlefield, believing that Titinius had been captured by the enemy. This misunderstanding led Cassius to believe that they had lost the battle, prompting him to take his own life. In reality, Titinius had not been captured; instead, he was being welcomed by friendly troops. Cassius’s misjudgment of the situation led to unnecessary tragedy.
iii. What was the “garland” a sign of? Why did Brutus send it?
Answer: The “garland” was a sign of victory. Brutus sent it to Cassius as a symbol of success in battle, to reassure him that they were still in a strong position despite the chaotic events on the battlefield. It was meant to celebrate their victory over Octavius’s forces, but unfortunately, Cassius did not live to receive this token in the intended spirit.
iv. Explain the meaning of “regarded.” How did Titinius now show his regard? What did Brutus say about Titinius and Cassius when he arrived?
Answer: The word “regarded” in this context means “paid respect to” or “honored.” Titinius showed his regard for Cassius by placing the garland, which was meant as a symbol of victory, on Cassius’s brow as a final gesture of respect. Upon Brutus’s arrival, he mourned the deaths of both Titinius and Cassius, lamenting that Caesar’s spirit still had the power to turn their own swords against themselves. Brutus honored them by acknowledging their greatness, referring to them as the last of the true Romans, and expressing his deep sense of loss.
v. This scene shows the beginning of the end for the conspirators. What reason does Brutus give for what he saw? Explain how his reason is proved to be true in his own case later.
Answer: Brutus interprets the tragic deaths of Cassius and Titinius as a sign that Julius Caesar’s influence continues to haunt them, even from beyond the grave. He believes that Caesar’s spirit is causing them to turn their swords on themselves. This foreshadows Brutus’s own fate, as he too will later take his own life, driven by the despair and realization that their cause is doomed, further fulfilling the notion that Caesar’s death marked the beginning of their own downfall.
Ron’e Dutta is a journalist, teacher, aspiring novelist, and blogger who manages Online Free Notes. An avid reader of Victorian literature, his favourite book is Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë. He dreams of travelling the world. You can connect with him on social media. He does personal writing on ronism.
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