() Which “sober form” of Brutus is referred to by Cassius? What are the wrongs? How does the sober form hide wrongs? Answer: The “sober form” of Brutus refers to his calm, composed, and serious demeanor. Cassius believes that this outward calmness hides the wrongs that Brutus has committed, which include actions that Cassius perceives as unjust or unfair towards him. The sober form hides the wrongs by masking Brutus’s true feelings or intentions, making it difficult for others to perceive any wrongdoing, (i) What does Brutus say before this extract about the wrongs done by him? How is it an irony? Answer: Before this extract, Brutus expresses disbelief at the accusation of wrongdoing, questioning how he could wrong his enemies, let alone a brother like Cassius. The irony lies in the fact that while Brutus denies having wronged Cassius, Cassius feels deeply hurt and wronged by Brutus's actions, which creates a conflict between their perceptions of the situation. (ii) Which two armies are referred to? Why should they perceive “nothing but love”? Answer: The two armies referred to are those of Brutus and Cassius. They should perceive “nothing but love” because Brutus and Cassius, as leaders of the two forces, need to present a united front to their soldiers. Any visible discord between them could undermine their authority and the morale of their troops, which is crucial for their success in the ongoing conflict. (iv) What is meant by “enlarge your griefs,/ And | will give you audience? Why does the speaker want to give audience to Cassius in the privacy of his tent? Answer: “Enlarge your griefs" means that Cassius should fully express and elaborate on the grievances or complaints he has. Brutus offers to listen to these grievances (‘give you audience’) in private, within the tent, to avoid airing their disagreements publicly in front of their armies. This privacy ensures that their dispute does not become a spectacle and helps maintain their soldiers’ confidence in their leadership. (v) How does this extract compare the fortunes of Brutus and Cassius with that of Antony and Octavius in the earlier scene? ‘Answer: This extract highlights the tension and disagreement between Brutus and Cassius, contrasting with the unity and cooperation between Antony and Octavius seen in earlier scenes. Antony and Octavius, despite any personal differences, appear more strategically aligned and unified in their purpose, which contrasts with the conflict between Brutus and Cassius. This difference in unity foreshadows the challenges Brutus and Cassius might face in their struggle against Antony and Octavius.(i) What sort of corruption is referred to in the extract? What has been the reaction of Cassius, just before this extract, to this accusation? Answer: In this extract, the corruption referred to by Brutus involves the accusation that Cassius has been involved in bribery and selling positions of power for gold, which Brutus condemns as dishonourable. Just before this extract, Cassius reacts angrily to Brutus’s accusation, vehemently denying that he has an “itching palm” and expressing indignation that Brutus would accuse him of such behaviour. {li) What does the ides of March signify to them? For which purpose did Brutus say that Julius bled “for justice sake"? Answer: he ides of March, specifically the Ides of March, signifies the assassination of Julius Caesar, which Brutus and the other conspirators justified as an act done for the sake of justice. Brutus recalls this to remind Cassius that they killed Caesar to rid Rome of tyranny and corruption, implying that they should not now engage in corrupt practices themselves. {ili) Give two examples from this scene to indicate that Brutus was really angry with Cassius. Answer: Brutus’s anger is evident when he accuses Cassius of having an “itching palm” and condemning him for corrupt practices, implying that Cassius has dishonoured himself and their cause by taking bribes. Another indication of Brutus’s anger is when he sharply rebukes Cassius, saying that he would rather be a dog than lower himself to such corrupt acts as selling their honour for money, demonstrating his deep disapproval and frustration. {iv) Explain briefly the bitter irony involved in the quarrel over money between Brutus and Cassius. Answer: he bitter irony in their quarrel over money lies in the fact that Brutus, who prides himself on his moral integrity and disdain for wealth, is forced to ask Cassius for funds to pay his soldiers. Cassius, who has been accused of corruption and greed, denies Brutus the gold, leading to an argument. This situation highlights the moral and practical contradictions between their ideals and the harsh realities they face. (v) State briefly how the isagreement between Cassius and Brutus was resolved. Answer he disagreement between Cassius and Brutus is resolved when they both acknowledge their emotional outbursts and reconcile. Brutus expresses regret for his harsh words, and Cassius offers his dagger to Brutus, asking him to kill him if he truly believes Cassius is dishonorable. Brutus declines and they embrace, reaffirming their friendship and unity before preparing for thelr next battle,Answer: The phrase “You shall digest the venom of your spleen, / Though it do split you" means that Cassius will have to endure and swallow his anger and bitterness, even if it causes him great distress, Brutus is telling Cassius that he will have to manage his rage internally, no matter how much it hurts. Brutus then says he will use Cassius for his amusement, specifically for laughter, whenever Cassius gets angry or Irritable. (li) Give two examples of the taunts which Brutus had indulged in earlier which makes Cassius say, “Is it come to this”? (Do not use the material used for answering question (above.) Answer: Two examples of Brutus’s taunts are: Brutus accuses Cassius of having an “itching palm,” implying that Cassius is greedy and takes bribes: “Let me tell you, Cassius, you yourself / Are much condemned to have an itching palm” Brutus dismisses Cassius's claim of being a better soldier by saying, “You say you are a better soldier: / Let it appear so; make your vaunting true." This challenges Cassius to prove his worth, (ill) Under what conditions had Cassius made the statement that he was a better soldier than Brutus? How accurate is Cassius’ assessment of himself as a soldier? Give reasons for your answer. Answer: Cassius made the statement that he was a better soldier than Brutus during their argument in which he felt insulted and belittled by Brutus. Cassius was trying to assert his superiority in military experience and skill. However, Cassius's assessment of himself as a better soldier is debatable. While he may have more experience, his judgment is often clouded by his emotions, and he tends to act impulsively, as seen in his willingness to confront Brutus angrily rather than rationally discussing their strategies. Brutus, on the other hand, is more measured and thoughtful, which can be seen as a strength in leadership and strategy. (iv) What is meant by “vaunting"? How could Cassius prove his vaunting at this point of time? ‘Answer: “Vaunting” means boasting or bragging. Cassius could prove his vaunting by demonstrating his military prowess and strategic abilities, thereby validating his claim of being a superior soldier. At this point, he could do this by leading effectively in battle and making sound tactical decisions that would lead to victory. () White Brutus and Cassius are arguing, a strange visitor enters the scene. Who Is he? What is the purpose of his visit? How does Brutus react to his arrival. ‘Answer: The strange visitor who enters the scene is the Ghost of Caesar. The purpose of his visit is to forewarn Brutus that he will see him again at Philippi, which implies Brutus's Impending doom. Brutus reacts with a mix of fear and determination, acknowledging the ghost’s message but trying to maintain his composure. He is, oe eee des ke nineDearer than Pluto's mine, richer than gold: If that thou be'st a Roman, take it forth. |, that denied thee gold, will give my heart: Strike, as thou didst at Caesar; for, | know, When thou dist hate him worst, thou lovidst him better Than ever thou lovidst Cassius. (0 Inwhat state is Cassius? Why is his heart richer than gold? Answer: assius Is in a state of deep emotional turmoil and desperation. He feels betrayed and rejected by Brutus, whom he loves and respects. His heart is described as “richer than gold” because it is full of loyalty, love, and sincerity. Cassius values. these emotional qualities more than material wealth, which is why he metaphorically offers his heart as something more valuable than Pluto’s mine. (i) Who is Pluto? Why is Cassius’ heart compared to Pluto's mine? Answer With the riches found underground, such as precious metals and minerals. Cassius compares his heart to Pluto's mine to emphasize that the love and loyalty he offers are luto is the Roman god of the underworld and wealth, particularly associated more precious than material wealth, symbolizing the deep value he places on his bond with Brutus. (iii) When did Cassius deny gold to Brutus? Why did the latter need the gold? What explanation did Cassius give for not giving the gold? Answer: assius denied Brutus gold when Brutus requested it to pay his legions. Brutus needed the gold to finance their army in the ongoing civil war. Cassius initially denied the request, which deeply offended Brutus. Cassius later suggests that the denial was a misunderstanding, possibly due to a mistake made by the messenger, and he laments that his actions have hurt Brutus. (iv) What reply does Brutus give to Cassius after this extract? Answer: After this extract, Brutus tells Cassius to sheathe his dagger and tries to calm him down, He acknowledges that their anger and arguments have gone too far and offers his hand in reconciliation, indicating his willingness to move past their quarrel. Brutus assures Cassius that he holds no lasting grudge, comparing his own temper to a flint that quickly cools after sparking. (¥) What is the dramatic importance of this dialogue? In what way does it influence the subsequent course of action in the play? Answer: This dialogue is crucial because it exposes the deep rift and tension between Brutus and Cassius, two of the leading conspirators against Caesar. Their quarrel reveals their vulnerabilities and foreshadows the eventual downfall of their alliance. Despite their reconciliation, the scene hints at the instability and impending doom of their cause. 7 moment of emotional conflict and resolution strengthens their bond temporarily but also highlights the fragility of their unity, which plays a role in the tragic outcomes that follow in the play.Messala Myself have letters of the self-same tenor. (i) Where has Portia gone? Why is Brutus so abrupt as to wave aside the though of Portia? What does it show us of his nature? Answer: Portia has died, having taken her own life by swallowing fire. Brutus is abrupt in dismissing thoughts of her because he is deeply troubled by her death but feels compelled to suppress his grief in the face of the pressing military and political challenges he faces. This shows Brutus as a stoic character who prioritizes duty and reason over personal emotions, reflecting his strong sense of responsibility and his attempt to maintain composure despite personal tragedy. (ii) Who is Messala? What is the “self-same tenor” of which Messala speaks? Answer: Messala is a supporter and messenger of Brutus and Cassius. The “self-same tenor” refers to the content of the letters both Brutus and Messala received, which report that Octavius and Mark Antony are advancing towards Philippi with a mighty force. (ii) What other news does Messala give just after this extract? Answer: Just after this extract, Messala informs Brutus that Octavius, Antony, and Lepidus have put to death a large number of senators, with the number varying between the reports Brutus and Messala received. Brutus’s letter mentions seventy senators, while Messala’s letter indicates a hundred senators, including Cicero. (iv) What does Brutus come to know (from the letters he received) about octavius and Antony? Where does Brutus plan to meet the enemy? Answer: Brutus learns from the letters that Octavius and Antony are marching towards Philippi with a considerable force. Brutus decides to march and meet the enemy at Philippi. (v) How strong had Octavius and Antony made themselves ? What was the fate of Cicero? Answer: Octavius and Antony had strengthened their position by raising a large army and executing senators they deemed as threats, including Cicero. Cicero was killed as part of their proscription, marking the extent of their consolidation of power.Which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune; Omitted, all the voyage of their life Js bound in shallows and in miseries. {i) To whom is Brutus giving the arguments in the extract? What is meant by “Our legions are brim-full, our cause is ripe"? Answer: Brutus is giving the arguments to Cassius. The phrase “Our legions are brim- full, our cause is ripe” means that their army is at full strength, and the timing is perfect for them to take action against their enemies, Brutus is indicating that they have the maximum support and that the momentum is on their side. (il) Give two arguments of Brutus to indicate that his military strength is in an advantageous position. Answer: Brutus argues that their legions are “brim-full;’ meaning that they have the full complement of troops and resources, suggesting a position of strength. He also states that ‘our cause Is ripe,” implying that the timing is perfect for action, and they should capitalize on this advantageous moment before the situation deteriorates. (iii) Brutus says, “The enemy increaseth every day.” State how it increases every day. ‘Answer: Brutus is concerned that the enemy's forces are gro\ \g daily because, as they march, they gain new supporters and resources from the regions they pass through. This increasing strength of the enemy poses a greater threat if they do not act quickly. {iv) “There is a tide in the affairs of men” What comparison is made between the voyage of life and the voyage on sea? Answer: Brutus compares the course of life to the ebb and flow of tides in the sea. He suggests that, like a tide, there are moments in life that, if seized, can lead to great success (“leads on to fortune”). However, if missed, they can result in failure and regret, leaving one stuck in difficulties and misfortunes (“bound in shallows and in miseries”). (v) According to Brutus, “On such a full sea are we now afloat.” How is this statement valid? Answer: Brutus believes that they are currently at the peak of their opportunity (Yon such a full sea”). This is valid because their forces are at full strength, and thelr cause is Just, making it the ideal moment to act. He is urging that they must move forward now while they are in this favorable position or risk losing everything.How ill this taper burns—Ha! who comes here? I think it is the weakness of mine eyes That shapes this monstrous apparition. It comes upon me. Art thou any thing? Art thou some god, some angel, or some devil, That mak’st my blood cold, and my hair to stare? Speak to me what thou art. () To whom does Brutus speak in the extract? What is the setting of the scene during this time? ‘Answer: Brutus speaks to the Ghost of Caesar in the extract, The setting of the scene is at night in Brutus’s tent, where he is alone after the departure of his companions. The atmosphere is eerie, and Brutus has just seen the ghost, which appears to him by the light of a flickering taper. (li) What is the “apparition” referred to in the extract? Why is it said to be “monstrous"? ‘Answer: The “apparition” referred to in the extract is the Ghost of Caesar. It Is sald to be “monstrous” because Brutus is shocked and terrified by the sudden appearance of the ghost, which he perceives as a supernatural and ominous figure. The ghost represents his guilt and the haunting consequences of his actions in participating in Caesar's assassination. (iii) What does Brutus wonder about the apparition? What is the effect of the apparition on Brutus? ‘Answer: Brutus wonders whether the apparition is a god, an angel, or a devil, reflecting his confusion and fear. The effect of the apparition on Brutus is profound; it makes his blood run cold and his hair stand on end, indicating that he is deeply unsettled and frightened by the ghost’s presence. (iv) What does the apparition say to Brutus? What is the significance of what the apparition says to Brutus? Answer: The apparition tells Brutus, “Thy evil spirit, Brutus,” and warns him that they will meet again at Philippi. The significance of this is that it foreshadows Brutus’s downfall and death at the Battle of Philippi, The ghost’s message serves as a harbinger of Brutus’s fate and the retribution for his role in Caesar's assassination. (v) Who else was present at the scene? Did they see the apparition? State whether the apparition was the product of Brutus’ imagination. Give a reason to justify your, answer. ‘Answer: Varro and Claudius, Brutus’s servants, were present at the scene, but they did not see the apparition. The apparition was likely a product of Brutus’s imagination, as no one else could see or hear it. This suggests that the ghost was a manifestation of Brutus’s guilty conscience and inner turmoil rather than a real, physical entity.