1. By William Shakespeare
Julius Caesar By
William Shakespeare

2. 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

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. Key Players
Pompey
Cassius
Brutus
Marc Antony

6. 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

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

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

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

10. Why Caesar Today?
Loyalty
Greed
Fear
Power of Rhetoric