Inflexibility versus Compromise in Julius Caesar

1. Inflexibility versus Compromise in Julius Caesar Group 1: Shamella McGhee Toya Richardson Amanda Jones

2. The theme of inflexibility versus compromise is an implied theme within the play. It is not explicitly expressed within the play.

3. CAESAR • Caesar prides himself on his steadfastness. • This characteristic leads to his death. • He refuses to heed to the omen of the Soothsayer. • He goes to the Capitol and is ultimately murdered by the conspirators.

4. BRUTUS • Brutus is stubborn and inflexible. • In the play individuals succeed through adaptability, bargaining, and compromise. • Brutus’s unbending though honorable ideals leave him open for manipulation by Cassius. • Brutus focuses on the quick removal of Caesar from power. • He does not consider the tragic implications of being apart of the Conspiracy. • He ultimately dies as the result of his stubbornness and inflexibility.

5. ANTONY • Antony is the most flexible character in the play. • He is able to gain power through manipulation. • Antony manipulates Brutus and Cassius when he persuades them to let him perform Caesar’ funeral speech. • Antony manipulates the crowd during Caesar’s funeral. • Although Antony is a successful politician, the play raises questions about his morality.

6. Big Idea • LOYALTY AND BETRAYAL • The characters fail to exercise loyalty. • They all exhibit betrayal. • Caesar and Brutus both meet tragic ends through their inability to display flexibility and compromise.

7. William-Shakespeare.info • Cast and Characters • Play Information • Plot Summary • History of the Drama • http://www.william-shakespeare.info/shakespeare-play-julius-caesar.htm