How Does Shakespeare Use Ethos In Julius Caesar

In William Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, the funeral speeches given by both Brutus and Mark Antony ARE TWO of the most significant parts in the play. Shortly after Brutus and many other conspirators killed Caesar in the Senate, the eulogies took place. Shakespeare utilizes ethos, logos, and pathos throughout the speeches of Brutus and Antony in order to sway the audience. Although this is true, in the end the audience is only swayed by the man who executes his persuasive skills the best and sends out the most powerful message. Not only did it influence the outcome of the play, but each speech also offered a unique insight into the speaker and their true feelings about the death of Caesar. Shakespeare demonstrates how to powerfully persuade the people of Rome through his words in the speeches of Brutus and Mark Antony.

He speaks to justify his actions for killing Caesar and uses his “honor and nobility” as a shield against the crowd. Brutus makes his first mistake by dispersing half of the audience by saying, “Those that will hear me speak, let em’ stay here; those that will follow Cassius, go with him.”(3.2.5-6) Here, Brutus is making Cassius seem equal in power, and he is not emphasizing how he needs the attention of the whole audience. Additionally, throughout the speech Brutus is not specific enough when explaining his reasons for Caesar’s death. He continuously refers to himself as an honorable man, and said Caesar was too much of a threat to Rome. On (3.2.31-33) “Who is here so rude that he would not be a Roman?” Shakespeare is illustrating the powerful use of pathos during this moment. He pauses for effect, knowing that no one would publicly admit to being unpatriotic. Brutus is using a more intimidating and cold form of persuasion here, and we later come to discover that his lack of insight and human nature aided in the hopelessness of his