Julius Caesar, Acts 3, Grades 11-12

Act 3 of 'Julius Caesar' is pivotal, featuring the assassination of Caesar and its immediate aftermath. This act raises important questions about power, justice, and the consequences of political actions. Through your analysis, consider how Shakespeare uses dramatic techniques to heighten tension and explore the themes of betrayal, persuasion, and public vs. private selves.

Describe the events leading up to Caesar's assassination. How do the conspirators manage to get close to Caesar, and what role does Decius play in convincing Caesar to go to the Senate?

Analyze Caesar's last words, 'Et tu, Brute? Then fall, Caesar.' What is the significance of these words in the context of the play, and how do they reflect the themes of betrayal and friendship?

Examine Mark Antony's speech to the Roman citizens. How does Antony use rhetorical strategies to sway the crowd's opinion? Cite specific examples of these strategies in action.

Discuss the role of the Roman citizens in this act. How do their reactions to the assassination and Antony's speech contribute to the development of the plot and the themes of the play?

Analyze the impact of Caesar's assassination on the various characters involved. How do the events of Act 3 serve as a turning point in the play, and what predictions can you make about the consequences of these actions?