Julius Caesar, Act V: Theme
Directions: Reflect on the possible themes of Julius Caesar. For each theme,
find a direct quote and explain in your own words how the theme applies to
the play. Once you have found evidence that will support the theme, answer
the questions that follow. Put all answers on a separate piece of paper.
Example:
Excessive pride can lead to one’s ruin.
Caesar’s pride and ego cause him to ignore Calpurnia and the augurer’s
warnings, “No, Caesar shall not; danger knows full well/That Caesar is more
dangerous then he:/We are two lions litter’d in one day,/And I the elder and
more terrible:/And Caesar shall go forth” (II.ii.46-50).
1.
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9.
Be careful whom you trust. Example with Analysis.
Too much ambition can be dangerous. . Example with Analysis.
Good leaders acknowledge their own weaknesses. Example with Analysis.
We cannot control our fate. Example with Analysis.
Politicians are only concerned with what the majority of people want.
Example with Analysis.
Superstition can be a powerful driving force. Example with Analysis.
People want to see the good in others. Example with Analysis.
Weak people can be easily manipulated. Example with Analysis.
One man’s hero is another man’s enemy. Example with Analysis.
Part Two: Answer the following questions using complete sentences. Use a
separate piece of paper for you answers; staple this sheet to your binder paper
to turn in.
10. What do you feel is the most important theme of the play? Explain.
11. What do you feel are the characteristics of a good leader? Do you feel
that Caesar, Brutus or Antony were good leaders? Why or why not?
12. To whom in modern politics or leadership can you compare Julius
Caesar? Explain why you chose this person and the characteristics this
person has in common with Caesar.
13. And Brutus?
14. And Antony?
15. Why do you think Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar is required reading for
students throughout the United States, Brittan, Canada and Australia? What
can students your age learn from the text? Explain.