Title: Exploring Themes and Symbols in Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar

Introduction: In Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, various themes and symbols are woven throughout the play, adding depth and meaning to the story. This handout aims to guide sophomores in identifying and analyzing these themes and symbols by providing a list and directing them to find supporting quotes. Remember, understanding these elements will enhance your comprehension and appreciation of the play.

Themes: 1. Ambition and Power: - “Cowards die many times before their deaths; The valiant never taste of death but once.” (Act II, Scene II) - “Yond Cassius has a lean and hungry look; He thinks too much: such men are dangerous.” (Act I, Scene II)

1. Betrayal and Loyalty:
   • “Et tu, Brute?—Then fall, Caesar!” (Act III, Scene I)
   • “Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears.” (Act III, Scene II)
2. Fate and Free Will:
   • “The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves.” (Act I, Scene II)
   • “Cowards die many times before their deaths; The valiant never taste of death but once.” (Act II, Scene II)

Symbols: 1. The Roman Republic: - “Beware the ides of March.” (Act I, Scene II) - “This was the noblest Roman of them all.” (Act V, Scene V)

1. The Soothsayer’s Warning:
   • “Beware the ides of March.” (Act I, Scene II)
   • “The gods do this in shame of cowardice: Caesar should be a beast without a heart if he should stay at home today for fear.” (Act II, Scene II)
2. The Crown:
   • “Why, man, he doth bestride the narrow world like a Colossus.” (Act I, Scene II)
   • “I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him.” (Act III, Scene II)

Instructions: 1. Read the provided quotes and identify the theme or symbol they represent. 2. Find additional quotes from the play that support the listed themes and symbols. 3. Write down the quotes you find and explain how they relate to the theme or symbol. 4. Be prepared to discuss your findings in class or use them for further analysis or assignments.

Note: Remember to provide context and analyze the quotes you find to deepen your understanding of the themes and symbols in Julius Caesar.

Example: Theme: Ambition and Power Quote: “Yond Cassius has a lean and hungry look; He thinks too much: such men are dangerous.” (Act I, Scene II) Explanation: This quote, spoken by Caesar, reveals his suspicion of Cassius and his belief that ambitious individuals like Cassius pose a threat to those in power. It highlights the theme of ambition and power, emphasizing Caesar’s awareness of the dangers it presents.

By exploring the themes and symbols in Julius Caesar through quotes, you will gain a deeper understanding of the play’s complexities and the motivations of its characters. Enjoy your exploration!