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Manipulation In Julius Caesar Essay

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Theme in literary works is used to show the reader an underlying message and moral. William Shakespeare uses theme in an impactful way. Julius Caesar written by William shakespeare has three dominant themes of manipulation, bloodshed brings about bloodshed, and power corrupts.

William Shakespeare displays the theme of Manipulation through the skill of the characters in his play Julius Caesar. Cassius is one of the main manipulators in the play. In Act 1 Cassius successfully manipulates Brutus into joining the conspirators through two methods: firstly, by making Brutus question Caesar whilst flattering him at the same time “'Brutus' and 'Caesar'—what should be in that 'Caesar'? Why should that name be sounded more than yours?”(Act1 Scene2 Line150-154) Secondly, by placing fake letters under his door in order for Brutus to “shake” Caesar.(Act 1 Scene2 Line315) Although Cassius is extremely skilled at manipulation, Mark Antony has Cassius cut out for his work through his own …show more content…

It is obvious to the conspirators that Julius Caesar is reaching for absolute power. The conspirators view Julius Caesar’s empowerment as a threat to Rome that needs to be eliminated “BRUTUS: He would be crowned: How that might change his nature, there's the Question. It is the bright day that brings forth the adder,”[...] “And therefore think him as a serpent's egg Which, hatched, would, as his kind, grow Mischievous, And kill him in the shell.” (Act2 Scene1 Line12-15; 33-36) Nearing the end of the play Octavius, Lipidus, and Mark Antony have copious amounts of power in the ruling of Rome. The trio are doing everything in their power to keep themselves in power even if it involves the killing of Lipidus’ family "Your brother too must die. Consent you, Lipidus?” Lipidus responded “I do consent.” (Act4 Scene1 Line3-4) William Shakespeare was brilliant in bringing forth his theme that Power

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