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Essay / Research Paper Abstract
This 5 page research paper examines how Marcus Brutus represents William Shakespeare's tragic hero, despite his ultimate act of betrayal, the murder his friend and mentor, Julius Caesar. Specifically considered are the elements of tragedy as defined by Shakespeare and how the character of Brutus exemplifies these characteristics. Bibliography lists 5 sources.
Page Count:
5 pages (~225 words per page)
File: D0_Brutus.rtf
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Unformatted sample text from the term paper:
defined by scholar Andrew Cecil Bradley, which are certainly evident in the historical play, Julius Caesar. First, although there is usually an eclectic mix of characters, there is inevitably
one which emerges as the hero. As the play unfolds, the hero endures much physical and emotional suffering so that he can satisfy his own definition of moral integrity.
Finally, at the plays close, the hero, after making some questionable life choices, meets with death (Bradley 24-25). The hero and his plight are the cornerstone of Shakespearean tragedy,
specifically, "the heroic effort of the protagonist, involving some recognition of ritualistic action at some point in the play, to hold the edges of the world together" (Liebler 25).
Arguably, Marcus Brutus is the quintessential Shakespearean tragic hero. He is strong and defines honor according to Roman tradition -- good citizenship and unwavering loyalty to the republic and
its preservation. He is often dismissed by those familiar with the death of Julius Caesar as little more than the emperors Judas, a cold-blooded murderer whose ambition led him
to the ultimate act of betrayal against his friend. However, Shakespeare is careful to point out that Brutus is a much-more complex individual, made all-the-more human by the perceived
contradictions of his character. Certainly, Brutus is strong. Even his name conveys strength. He is idealistic, and at least initially, genuinely believes in Caesar, confident that his mentors
leadership has the best interest of his Roman countrymen at heart. He has carefully defined political and social roles, as government official, husband, father and friend, but he has
also committed himself to the causes of freedom and equality (ODair 289). He is well-respected by his peers, like Casca, who remarks "He sits high in all the peoples
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