Honors English II/5
Clem
11/10/08
Brutus vs. Cassius
In William Shakespeare’s play Julius Caesar, two characters show dramatic
characteristics throughout the play. Brutus and Cassius are two characters who are
reflective in many ways. Both of these characters relate to each other, but yet differ
dramatically. Brutus and Cassius show passion and strength, but weaknesses, too.
Wee see both comparisons and contrasts in Cassius’ and Brutus’ leadership qualities,
characteristics and feelings towards Caesar.
Brutus and Cassius show different leadership skills throughout the play. Cassius, at the beginning of the play thinks Brutus is as good of a leader as Caesar when he makes the statement, “Brutus will start a spirit as soon as Caesar” (Act 1, sc. Ii, 147). Cassius and Brutus both have different motives throughout the play. Cassius wants to kill Caesar to make someone else be crowned king. In Act 1, sc. iii of Julius Caesar, Cassius makes the comment to Casca, “There’s a bargain made/ […]/ To undergo with me an enterprise of honorable dangerous consequences” showing the plan that Cassius makes to kill Caesar (120-124). Cassius tells Cinna, “Good Cinna take this paper and look you lay it in the praetor’s chair where Brutus may but find it,” so they could sway Brutus to their cause (Act 1, sc. iii, 142-144). Not only are their leadership skills different, but also their unique characteristics and personality.
Brutus and Cassius both share different characteristics and personality traits. Brutus is dedicated and more mature than Cassius. Cassius, on the other hand, is dangerous and a manipulator. In Act 1, sc. ii, 130-150, Cassius tries to manipulate Brutus into thinking that he is as good as Caesar. Cassius says to Brutus, “You bear too stubborn and too strange a hand” because Brutus wont watch the race (Act 1, sc. ii, 35). Brutus in many ways is also very stubborn and gullible; he will believe almost anything. Cassius is...