The murder of Julius Caesar in 44 BCE
led to the second civil war in Rome within five years. Julius
Caesar defeated another Roman General, Pompey in 49 BCE, when
he crossed the Rubicon river in Northern Italy to seize power.
Julius became dictator but failed to establish a rapport with
the Senate. The Senators were not content with this lack of power.
They conspired, and decided to kill him. This was a risky endeavor
because of Caesars' popularity. The success of the plot depended
on the approval of Brutus, one of Caesars' best friends. He was
hesitant, but relented when he became convinced it was the right
thing to do for Rome. After the deed was done, there was one
more obstacle, Mark Antony, Caesars' favorite General and good
friend. Antony was surprised by this act, but managed to recover.
They would speak over Caesars' body, without realizing the future
of Rome was at stake. The following speeches are taken from William
Shakespeare's play 'Julius Caesar', critiqued by John McMullen.
continue
|
The murder of Julius Caesar in 44 BCE led to the second civil war in Rome within five years. Julius Caesar defeated another Roman General, Pompey in 49 BCE, when he crossed the Rubicon river in Northern Italy to seize power. Julius became dictator but failed to establish a rapport with the Senate. The Senators were not content with this lack of power. They conspired, and decided to kill him. This was a risky endeavor because of Caesars' popularity. The success of the plot depended on the approval of Brutus, one of Caesars' best friends. He was hesitant, but relented when he became convinced it was the right thing to do for Rome. After the deed was done, there was one more obstacle, Mark Antony, Caesars' favorite General and good friend. Antony was surprised by this act, but managed to recover. They would speak over Caesars' body, without realizing the future of Rome was at stake. The following speeches are taken from William Shakespeare's play 'Julius Caesar', critiqued by John McMullen. |