The Tragedy of Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare: Act 5.3-5.5
Question 5 • CREDIT RECOVERY - ELA 9 - Summer
What is Shakespeare’s purpose behind the war of words between Mark Antony and Octavius and Brutus and Cassius at the start of act 5 of The Tragedy of Julius Caesar?
Answer
A
Shakespeare uses the war of words so that the men can explain calmly their reasons for going to war; rhetoric and violence work together.
B
Shakespeare uses the war of words to show that these men of power destroyed the Republic; rhetoric has been replaced by petty insults.
C
Shakespeare uses the war of words to have the opposing armies settle things without going to war; rhetoric is stronger than ever.
D
Shakespeare uses the war of words to have the men eulogize Caesar once again; rhetoric is used to bring focus to the violence.