William Shakespeare’s play, The Tragedy of Julius Caesar, centers on the assassination of Julius Caesar. Interestingly, the one responsible for this act is Marcus Brutus, who is not only a servant but also a close friend to Caesar. One may wonder why someone would kill a person they are so close to. By examining Brutus’ relationship with Caesar, his involvement in the conspiracy, and his significance to the plot, the truth can be uncovered. Marcus Brutus, a servant and intimate companion of Caesar, holds a strong bond with him. In the Roman society, one could only become close to someone of high status if they were in close proximity. Throughout the play, Brutus is frequently seen talking and standing next to Caesar. Although Brutus loves Caesar dearly, he also fears his power. In the beginning acts of the play, when speaking to Cassius, Brutus expresses his concerns about Caesar’s popularity among the people: “What means this shouting? I do fear the people do choose Caesar for their king… yet I love him well.” This excerpt showcases Brutus’ inner conflict as he loves Caesar but does not want him to gain more power and disregard the needs of Rome’s citizens. Following Julius Caesar’s assassination, Brutus engages in a conversation with Antony regarding Caesar’s death. He tries to convey that their motives stemmed from a place of pity and concern for Rome: “Our hearts you see not; they are pitiful; and pity to the general wrong of Rome…” (act 3, scene 1, ll.185-186).Brutus asserts that Antony is unable to perceive the compassionate hearts of the members of the conspiracy. This highlights how Brutus loved Caesar but valued the welfare of Rome and its people more. It is this sole reason that motivated Brutus to conspire against Caesar. He reflects upon himself, stating, “I know no personal cause to spurn at him… How that might change his nature…” (act 2, scene 1, ll.1,13). On the other hand, Caesar’s bond with Brutus is profound. Even permitting Brutus to engage in conversation with him exemplifies his reverence for Brutus. Caesar believes that Brutus acts nobly towards him and remains devoted to doing what is right, regardless of personal peril. As Caesar was assassinated on the Ides of March, his final utterance is: “Et tu, Brute?–Then fall, Caesar.” (act 3, scene 1, l.85). This reveals that Caesar would not meet his demise without the stab from Brutus. Caesar comprehends that there must be a noble motive behind this assassination if Brutus was involved. Once again, this illustrates the immense respect that Caesar holds for Brutus. Both Brutus and Caesar hold mutual respect towards one another, albeit in distinct manners.
Marcus Brutus played a vital role in the conspiracy against Caesar, serving as the linchpin of the plan. Cassius believed that Brutus joined the conspiracy as a kind of insurance policy, as his nobility towards Caesar would give the appearance of a justifiable reason for his assassination. Additionally, Brutus was chosen as the leader of the conspiracy for another insurance policy, as Cassius declared, “Brutus shall lead the way, and we will grace his heels with the most boldest and best hearts of Rome” (act 3, scene 1, ll.135-136). By having Brutus take the lead, it was hoped that the people would view Caesar’s death more favorably. Brutus himself stated that his involvement in the conspiracy was motivated by a desire to save Rome. He explained to the crowd, “If then that friend demand why Brutus rose against Caesar, this is my answer: not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more” (Act 3, scene 2, ll.21-24).
The conspiracy in The Tragedy of Julius Caesar would likely have failed if Brutus had not been involved. His love for Rome motivated him to join the plot. Without his allegiance to Rome surpassing his loyalty to Caesar, he would not have participated in the assassination. The absence of Brutus would have greatly discouraged Cassius and the other conspirators from continuing, as they would have lacked assurance for their future. The public, perceiving no justification for Caesar’s death, would probably have executed all those involved in the conspiracy. Additionally, if Brutus had not been present in the play, the events leading to its culmination would never have unfolded. His absence would eliminate the existence of his army and his eventual suicide, while Cassius would already have been beheaded. Consequently, without Brutus, the title of the play would lose its significance entirely.
Marcus Brutus was a loyal friend to Julius Caesar; however, his loyalty had limits. He held strong moral beliefs when it came to Rome and its citizens. These values prompted Brutus to ally himself with Cassius in a plot against Caesar. The main reason for joining the conspiracy was Brutus’ fear of Caesar betraying Rome, providing a justifiable cause for his assassination. Without Brutus’ involvement, “The Tragedy of Julius Caesar” would lack the tragic elements that make it a true tragedy.
