Read the excerpt from act 3, scene 2, of Julius Caesar . [BRUTUS.] Who is here so vile that will not love his country? If any, speak, for him have I offended. I pause for a reply. ALL: None, Brutus, none. BRUTUS: Then none have I offended. I have done no more to Caesar than you shall do to Brutus. The question of his death is enrolled in the Capitol: his glory not extenuated, wherein he was worthy, nor his offences enforced, for which he suffered death. [Enter ANTONY and others, with CAESAR’s body] Here comes his body, mourned by Mark Antony, who, though he had no hand in his death, shall receive the benefit of his dying: a place in the commonwealth—as which of you shall not? With this I depart: that, as I slew my best lover for the good of Rome, I have the same dagger for myself, when it shall please my country to need my death. What is the best summary of this monologue?
Answer
A
Brutus questions if anyone in the crowd hates Rome and clarifies that only that person could be offended by Caesar’s death. Brutus explains that he killed Caesar for the good of Rome, he would be willing to die for Rome too someday if it is what the country needed. As Caesar’s body is delivered, Brutus also acknowledges that Antony is not guilty, but will benefit from Caesar’s death, just as everyone will.
B
Brutus explains that though he has offended many people, he has not done anything to Caesar that the people will not do to him someday.
C
Brutus asks if he has offended anyone, and they say no. He then explains that he has not done anything to Caesar that the people should not have already done to Caesar if only they were brave enough.
D
Brutus tries to justify Caesar’s death by suggesting that the people should kill him someday if it is for the good of Rome.