Brutus and Cassius, who are two of the main conspirators against Julius Caesar, share a common goal, but act uniquely in achieving it, based on their beliefs. The unique methods used by each man are based off of their philosophies, and are actually similar to each other. Brutus and Cassius are supporters of contrasting philosophies, but the influence of the philosophies on each man is similar. The actions, goals, and ideas of each man is shaped and influenced by their mindset. Through juxtaposition and paralleling scenes in Julius Caesar, William Shakespeare, the author, illustrates the connections between Brutus and Cassius. Stoicism and Epicureanism are almost opposite to each other, but the few similarities between the two can be seen in the actions of Brutus and Cassius.
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He includes a situation so that the reader can observe the different reactions and decisions of each man in response to them. A great example of this is the debate on whether to kill Antony or not. While Brutus represents a Stoic view, and says that it would be “too bloody” (II.i.164) and unreasonable to kill Antony, Cassius wants to be free of anxiety, therefore stating that Antony should die because he “[fears him]” (II.i.186). This juxtaposition is used to help the reader understand that Brutus and Cassius are foils of each other, and here especially, it is understood that their philosophies play a major role in why they are foils. Another juxtapositional event occurs when Brutus begins to questions his thoughts and intentions. He finds most of his issues “only proper to himself” (I.ii.43), and internal conflicts. Cassius, in contrast, is always confident in himself, and in his confidence he is able to maintain healthy relationships with those around him, unlike Brutus during his troubled
He includes a situation so that the reader can observe the different reactions and decisions of each man in response to them. A great example of this is the debate on whether to kill Antony or not. While Brutus represents a Stoic view, and says that it would be “too bloody” (II.i.164) and unreasonable to kill Antony, Cassius wants to be free of anxiety, therefore stating that Antony should die because he “[fears him]” (II.i.186). This juxtaposition is used to help the reader understand that Brutus and Cassius are foils of each other, and here especially, it is understood that their philosophies play a major role in why they are foils. Another juxtapositional event occurs when Brutus begins to questions his thoughts and intentions. He finds most of his issues “only proper to himself” (I.ii.43), and internal conflicts. Cassius, in contrast, is always confident in himself, and in his confidence he is able to maintain healthy relationships with those around him, unlike Brutus during his troubled