Decius versus Calphurnia
As Tony Robbins once said, “It is in your moments of decision that your destiny is shaped.” Decisions present a vital aspect to Caesar’s destiny. Caesar suffers internal conflict regarding if he should let Calphurnia or Decius influence his decision. Both characters present an argument towards Caesar and whether or not he should go to the Capitol. Calphurnia wishes for Caesar to stay whereas Decius cunningly manipulates Caesar to go.
Calphurnia envisions bad omens that cause her to become suspicious. She tells Caesar that she has never believed in omens, but these terrify her (lines 1-2). She also tries to make her argument more credible by saying that a servant told her that the night watchman saw terrible sights too (lines 1-3). In her nightmare, she sees a multitude of bad omens. “A lioness hath whelped in the streets, And graves have yawned, and yielded up their dead; Fierce fiery warriors fought upon the clouds In ranks and squadrons and right form of war, Which drizzled blood upon the Capitol; The noise of battle hurtled in the air, Horses did neigh and dying men did groan, And ghosts did shriek and squeal about the streets” (lines 5-12). Calphurnia uses these emotional words to show her husband how terrified she is. Before Decius enters the room, Calphurnia has won the argument and Caesar is going to stay at home and send Mark Antony.
Decius ultimately prevails through his argument towards Caesar. Decius is more effective than Calphurnia because although she is his wife, he knows Caesar’s personality enough to deceive him. Caesar tells Decius the truth about why he will not go to the Capitol (lines 37-44). After telling him about Calphurnia’s dream, Decius makers her look like a fool for being scared of the omen. He basically tells them it was a good and lucky dream meaning he would provide Rome with sustaining blood (lines 46-52). “I have, when you have heard what I can say; And know it now, the Senate have concluded To...