English Hsc Notes

English Hsc Notes

Module C- Conflicting perspectives

The balanced structure of the play is typically Elizabethan, shaping the audience’s perceptions from one Act to the next.

? Act 1 – introduces the conspiracy and the major players plotting to kill Caesar.
? Act 2 – lead-up to the assassination and the crucial involvement of Brutus.
? Act 3 – shows the assassination climax
? Act 4 – shows the social and political aftermath
? Act 5 –   shows the retribution against the conspirators a1nd the establishment of dictatorship.

• Perspectives of Caesar differ greatly; Marullus’ rebuking the people’s support, while Flavius expresses concerns and fears that are linked to Caesar’s mounting power.
• Charges that he is a dreaded tyrant whose powers must be curbed are in Cassius’ case, fuelled by jealousy and envy. Brutus struggles with perceptions of Caesar as friend and ideals of freedom and honour. He is persuaded to fear that if crowned, Caesar may cause the demise of Roman Republicanism.
• Both men see the need for Caesar’s death but are driven by different motivations and perspectives of the political situation.
• Shakespeare’s representation is of a flawed individual, whose physical feebleness is countered by a dominating personality. His ceremonial entrance is given ominous overtones by being juxtaposed with the soothsayer’s prediction to “Beware the ides of March”.
• If Caesar had accepted the crown offered three times by Antony on behalf of the people, Rome would be changed from a Republican system of government to a dictatorial monarchy.

Dramatization of Conflicting perspectives

Oratory
• Oratory has the power to dominate, persuade and manipulate the emotions as shown in the different ways by the mix of public orations and private discussions that are found sprinkled throughout the play.
• Often they are highly emotional, making frequent use of hyperbole

Introduction:
It is often said that conflict of some kind is at the heart of every text. Values...