Now that you have identified a central idea and motif, explain how the recurring idea supports the central idea. Use details from the text to support your explanation.

Answer:

The central idea revealed by the motif of flattery in this passage is that self-serving individuals cannot be trusted. The conspirators said one thing while behaving in a very different manner. In his speech, Antony describes how the conspirators fawned over Caesar, "kissing Caesar’s feet.” This flattery was a cover for their true intentions. They revealed "vile daggers” and stabbed Caesar, killing him. By pointing out the conspirators’ use of flattery, Antony calls them hypocrites who used false words to further their ambitions.