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Political Leaders In Julius Caesar Essay

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In the play “Julius Caesar” by William Shakespeare, you are easily able to identify the theme of ‘political leaders usually act in the best interest of their country’ on several occasions. Shakespeare portrays this theme not only in the character Julius Caesar, but also in Marcus Brutus and Mark Antony. Although neither of them weren’t ever actually in charge of Rome, they still represent the theme well by doing what they truly believe is for the best. First, I will go into detail about how Brutus depicted the theme by leading the conspirators to do what he felt was the right thing to do. Then, I will continue on and explain how Caesar acted in the best interest of his country simply by trying to do his job. Finally, I will go further into how, even after Caesar was murdered, he still tried doing good by Rome, and …show more content…
Early on in the play, you start seeing the conspirators joining together to scheme against Caesar. However, Cassius begins to realize that he doesn’t want to be the head of the conspiracy, so he starts finding ways to manipulate Brutus into joining and leading the group. Unfortunately, Brutus doesn't seem to realize he’s being manipulated and believes what he’s doing is for the good of Rome. You start seeing him contemplate what’s actually the best decision he can make for the country. Brutus says “It must be by his death; and for my part, I know no personal cause to spurn at him, but for the general. He would be crowned. How that might change his nature, there’s the question.” (page 1220 lines 10-13). In these lines, you see Brutus leaning toward joining the conspiracy, but not for the same reasons as the others. He’s doing it because he genuinely thinks that Caesar is going to turn into a dictator and to save Rome from him, they must kill him now while they have the chance. After Brutus makes his decision to join, he meets up with the other conspirators and, while together, Cassius suggests that

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