Examples Of Ambiguity In Julius Caesar

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Julius Caesar: a Study in Ambiguity Every story has a hero and a villain, right? The conflict between these two opposing characters is what establishes the plot for practically every story. One character is positively wicked and disrupts the noble quest of the valiant hero. Unlike most stories, “The Tragedy of Julius Caesar” doesn’t follow this typical plot line with a clear - cut villain and hero for a few reasons. To begin with, none of the characters had all good or bad actions. Some will quickly point out how Caesar’s ambition made him a bad leader or how Brutus only joined the conspiracy for the good of Rome. Yet, the play opens with people celebrating Caesar and his triumph over Pompey. Flavius even states “It is no matter; let no images/Be hung with Caesar’s trophies. . .” (Shakespeare, 2003 p. 778) and the Feast of Lupercal is celebrating Caesar’s latest victory. This evidence suggests that Caesar has had a very successful career as a general. Additionally, in his will Caesar leaves to the Roman people land for recreation and 75 drachmas per person (Shakespeare, 2003 p. 840). While some may see this as a power play on Caesar’s part, he …show more content…

Many readers are quick to point to Caesar as the villain. However, they fail to recognize how Caesar truly believed he was the only one truly worthy of ruling Rome. Caesar really shows this belief in the following quote: “And men are flesh and blood, and apprehensive; Yet in the number I do know but one/That unassailable holds on his rank, Unshaked of motion; and that I am he. . .” (Shakespeare, 2003, p. 823). He is explaining how other men are unpredictable, but he is unwavering in his decisions and beliefs. As mentioned before, regardless of their motives and reputations, the conspirators committed murder. They never tried to express their concerns and reason with Caesar before they made this impulsive, irrational decision. In short, despite

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