Monday, April 23, 2012

Reread I.ii.90-131 and I.ii.135-174. What is Cassius suggesting and how does he build his argument?

The main goal for Cassius is to persuade Brutus into joining him and his conspirators against Caesar. Although Caesar is about to become the ruler of Rome, Cassius and a group of other men do not think that he is worthy as a leader. He tries to flatter Brutus and talk about his positive qualities, suggesting that Caesar's qualities aren't any better than him. Cassius starts building on his argument by relating his personal opinion to his situation. He tells Brutus about his past experience with Caesar and how Caesar is not physically qualified as a leader but more as a sick girl. Cassius then goes on to talk about where Brutus stands in the situation. Cassius goes on to flatter Brutus. For example, Cassius tells Brutus that their value is equal by saying "Write them together, yours is as fair a name", meaning that Brutus's name is just good as Caesars. He also says "Weigh them, it is as heavy", indcating that Brutus is just as dense with knowledge and depth. Cassius also brings in the delicate topic of fate. He says "Men at some time are masters of their fates", which is a way of giving Brutus power, as he leaves the responsibility of Brutus's fate. Cassius successfully manages Brutus to join him using different aspects and stand points of the situation.