By William Shakespeare Julius Caesar By William Shakespeare

Shakespeare’s Motivations: Why Caesar? Absolute monarchy did not allow for political discourse means of expressing societal fears regarding England’s leadership. Shakespeare’s audience identified with Caesar’s conflicts/plot Political commentary

parallels between Caesar and Queen Elizabeth I Shift from republican to imperial Rome much like the Elizabethan trend towards consolidated monarchy on the throne for nearly 40 years! Grew more powerful over time, at the expense of the house of commons Like Caesar, Elizabeth Lacked heirs to inherit throne British citizens feared her death would plunge England into chaos, just as Caesar’s death did to Rome.

From Plutarch to Shakespeare Plutarch authored influential history book: Parallel Lives Parallel Lives Series of biographies of famous Greeks & Romans Shakespeare’s source of information for Julius Caesar.

Key Players Pompey Cassius Brutus Marc Antony

Pompey Formed 1st Triumverate with Caesar & Crassus Allies until death of Crassus Battled Caesar for power Married to Julia Caesar, Caesar’s daughter & only child. Defeated by Caesar and murdered by his own men Play opens with discussion regarding Caesar’s defeat of Pompey

Cassius Military general & acquaintance of Caesar Shrewdly opportunistic Jealous of Caesar’s power

Brutus Caesar’s best “friend” Staunchly supported the Republic Power to the People! Tragic Hero

Marc Antony Once Married to J-Lo Allegiance questionable Skilled orator

Why Caesar Today? Loyalty Greed Fear Power of Rhetoric