The Tragedy of Julius Caesar, Part 7: Thematic Development
Question 1 of 10 • Summer School 26: Literature & Composition II
Read the excerpt from act 5, scene 3, of The Tragedy of Julius Caesar.MESSALA. Seek him, Titinius, whilst I go to meetThe noble Brutus, thrusting this reportInto his ears. I may say, "thrusting” it,For piercing steel and darts envenomed Shall be as welcome to the ears of BrutusAs tidings of this sight.TITINIUS. Hie you, Messala,And I will seek for Pindarus the while.[Exit MESSALA]Why didst thou send me forth, brave Cassius? Did I not meet thy friends, and did not theyPut on my brows this wreath of victory,And bid me give it thee? Didst thou not hear their shouts?Alas, thou hast misconstrued everything!But hold thee, take this garland on thy brow. Thy Brutus bid me give it thee, and IWill do his bidding. Brutus, come apace,And see how I regarded Caius Cassius.By your leave, gods,—this is a Roman’s part:Come, Cassius’ sword, and find Titinius’ heart.
Answer
A
Titinius feels guilty that Cassius is dead, and decides he must kill himself.
B
Brutus feels guilty that Cassius is dead, and decides to give him a garland.
C
Messala has to decide whether to tell Brutus about Cassius or to kill Pindarus.
D
Titinius has to decide whether to tell Brutus about Cassius or to kill Pindarus.