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Persuasion In Julius Caesar

Decent Essays

The Power of Influence
As well-known storyteller Aesop once said, “Persuasion is often more effectual than force” (Brainyquotes.com). In other words, the art of influence is more effective than enforcing an idea. In William Shakespeare's play, The Tragedy of Julius Caesar, there are many occasions in which a character is trying to move its audience. Persuasion and rhetoric are the most important factors that Brutus uses to influence the people of Rome and his conspirators.
To begin, persuasion and rhetoric are very powerful methods of influencing an audience. They are mainly achieved using three key components. They are known as ethos, pathos, and logos. Ethos is an appeal to ethics and it is a means of convincing someone of the character …show more content…

Brutus uses rhetoric language and incorporates ethos, pathos, and logos into his speeches. When talking to his fellow conspirators, they come upon several issues. For example, letting Mark Antony live. Cassius and the group believe that they should kill Antony so that there are no witnesses or people who can foil their plan. Brutus disagrees and explains that they will just be seen as “butchers”. He claims that Antony will not be a problem “for he can do no more than Caesar’s arm/ When Caesar’s head is off” (2.1.182). In other words, Antony is but a limb. Once Caesar dies, Antony dies with him and he is essentially useless. Undoubtedly, Brutus uses logic and reason to persuade his group members to think that Antony is not a problem. Another instance in which Brutus influences his audience is when he is talking to the people of Rome. Here he is trying to let the people know why he and his members killed Caesar and why it was for good reason. He explains that it was for the greater good and for the people of Rome. He says he “rose against Caesar not that [he] loved Caesar less, but that [he] loved Rome more” (3.2.22). In saying this, Brutus makes it personal with the people of Rome and he appeals to their emotions. Unquestionably, Brutus successfully uses persuasive concepts and language to convey his message and create an impact on his

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