CASSIUS:

“That you have wronged me doth appear in this:
You have condemned and noted Lucius Pella
For taking bribes here of the Sardians,
Wherein my letters, praying on his side
Because I knew the man, was slighted off.”

• Explanation: Cassius feels wronged by Brutus for condemning Lucius Pella, a man whom Cassius supported because he knew him personally. The act of rejecting Cassius’ plea for Pella implies a lack of loyalty to Cassius.
• Analysis: Cassius is using this instance to argue that Brutus has betrayed him personally, pointing out that Brutus did not consider his letter on behalf of Pella.
• Device: Allusion – The mention of Lucius Pella is an allusion to a specific historical or fictional figure to build tension. This device serves to deepen the sense of personal betrayal.

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BRUTUS:

“You wronged yourself to write in such a case.”

• Explanation: Brutus chastises Cassius for getting involved in an issue like bribery, suggesting that it was morally wrong for him to defend Pella in this case.
• Analysis: This highlights Brutus’ personal code of honor and morality, which contrasts sharply with Cassius’ pragmatism and willingness to manipulate situations.
• Device: Ethos – Brutus appeals to his own moral integrity, establishing his character as one who values virtue over personal connections.

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CASSIUS:

“In such a time as this it is not meet
That every nice offense should bear his comment.”

• Explanation: Cassius argues that in times of great political instability, minor offenses should not be scrutinized too harshly.
• Analysis: Cassius is trying to justify the corrupt actions that Brutus condemns by suggesting that survival in a chaotic world sometimes requires such compromises.
• Device: Rhetorical Question – This statement is intended to provoke thought, challenging Brutus to reconsider his stance.

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BRUTUS:

“Let me tell you, Cassius, you yourself
Are much condemned to have an itching palm,
To sell and mart your offices for gold
To undeservers.”

• Explanation: Brutus accuses Cassius of corruption, suggesting that he has taken bribes and sold political offices.
• Analysis: This sharp condemnation exposes the moral divide between the two characters, with Brutus accusing Cassius of the very things he criticizes in others.
• Device: Metaphor – The term “itching palm” metaphorically represents a corrupt desire for money and power.

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CASSIUS:

“I an itching palm?
You know that you are Brutus that speaks this,
Or, by the gods, this speech were else your last.”

• Explanation: Cassius reacts strongly, implying that Brutus’ accusation is insulting and could lead to violence.
• Analysis: This line shows Cassius’ pride and readiness to defend his honor by threatening Brutus. It reflects the volatile nature of their relationship.
• Device: Hyperbole – Cassius exaggerates the potential consequences of Brutus’ words, elevating the tension.

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BRUTUS:

“The name of Cassius honors this corruption,
And chastisement doth therefore hide his head.”

• Explanation: Brutus argues that Cassius’ reputation supports his corrupt behavior, and any punishment for such actions is ignored.
• Analysis: Brutus’ words are a direct challenge to Cassius’ honor, accusing him of hiding behind his status to avoid accountability.
• Device: Irony – Brutus criticizes Cassius for claiming honor while indulging in corruption, revealing the hypocrisy he sees.

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BRUTUS:

“Remember March; the ides of March remember.
Did not great Julius bleed for justice’ sake?
What villain touched his body that did stab
And not for justice?”

• Explanation: Brutus reminds Cassius of the assassination of Julius Caesar, claiming that the conspirators killed Caesar for justice, not personal gain.
• Analysis: Brutus is emphasizing the righteousness of their cause, contrasting it with Cassius’ actions, which he sees as tainted by personal greed.
• Device: Allusion – The reference to the Ides of March invokes the pivotal moment in the play when Caesar was assassinated, reinforcing the gravity of their actions.

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CASSIUS:

“Brutus, bait not me.
I’ll not endure it. You forget yourself
To hedge me in.”

• Explanation: Cassius warns Brutus not to provoke him further, asserting that he won’t tolerate being belittled.
• Analysis: Cassius’ pride is once again at the forefront, showing how his emotional responses drive his actions.
• Device: Metaphor – “Hedge me in” suggests being trapped or cornered, symbolizing how Brutus’ criticism is limiting Cassius’ freedom to act.

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BRUTUS:

“Go to! You are not, Cassius.”

• Explanation: Brutus dismisses Cassius’ claim of superiority as a soldier, showing his disdain for Cassius’ arrogance.
• Analysis: This line demonstrates Brutus’ authority in the argument and his rejection of Cassius’ inflated self-image.
• Device: Antithesis – The contrast between Brutus’ calm dismissal and Cassius’ emotional outbursts highlights the tension between the two.

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CASSIUS:

“I am.
I say you are not.”

• Explanation: Cassius retorts, adamant in his belief that he is superior to Brutus as a soldier.
• Analysis: This shows Cassius’ need to assert dominance and control, revealing his insecurities.
• Device: Repetition – The repetition of “I am” and “I say you are not” emphasizes the conflict and unwillingness to back down.

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CASSIUS:

“Is ’t possible?
Hear me, for I will speak.”

• Explanation: Cassius expresses disbelief, likely at Brutus’ accusations or refusal to acknowledge his authority.
• Analysis: This reveals Cassius’ emotional vulnerability, as he struggles to maintain composure in the face of Brutus’ condemnation.
• Device: Rhetorical Question – This question invites Brutus to reconsider the situation and see things from Cassius’ perspective.

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BRUTUS:

“All this? Ay, more. Fret till your proud heart break.
Go show your slaves how choleric you are
And make your bondmen tremble.”

• Explanation: Brutus mocks Cassius’ anger, suggesting that he should take his frustrations out on those beneath him, not on Brutus.
• Analysis: Brutus’ dismissive tone and sarcastic words show his contempt for Cassius’ emotional outbursts.
• Device: Sarcasm – Brutus uses sarcasm to mock Cassius’ pride, turning it into something petty and inconsequential.

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BRUTUS:

“Must I budge?
Must I observe you? Must I stand and crouch
Under your testy humor?”

• Explanation: Brutus expresses his frustration at having to cater to Cassius’ mood, questioning why he should comply with such behavior.
• Analysis: This line highlights Brutus’ exasperation with Cassius, showing that he feels constrained by his demands and temper.
• Device: Rhetorical Question – Brutus uses these questions to assert his autonomy and deflect Cassius’ influence.

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CASSIUS:

“Is it come to this?”

• Explanation: Cassius is shocked that their argument has escalated to this point, demonstrating his emotional distress.
• Analysis: This question emphasizes the gravity of the situation, with Cassius struggling to reconcile his emotions with the reality of their conflict.
• Device: Rhetorical Question – Cassius uses this device to reflect on the breakdown of their friendship.

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CASSIUS:

“O you gods, you gods, must I endure all this?”

• Explanation: Cassius calls on the gods, feeling overwhelmed by the situation and his inability to control it.
• Analysis: This line underscores Cassius’ emotional volatility and dependence on external forces to deal with his frustrations.
• Device: Apostrophe – By addressing the gods directly, Cassius expresses his sense of helplessness and desperation.