Julius Caesar Tragic Hero Essay

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William Shakespeare, in his play The Tragedy of Julius Caesar, writes about two prominent men in Rome named Brutus and Julius Caesar. Though many may argue over who of these two men is the tragic hero, it’s clear that this definition fits Brutus better. Brutus is the tragic hero in the play because he held a high position in the Roman society, possessed three tragic flaws that led to his dismay, exhibited two extraordinary talents, and he ultimately faced his downfall with courage and dignity. To begin with, Brutus is the tragic hero in the play because he held a high position in society, was highly respected, and was a leader. Brutus was a part of the Roman Senate and was highly favored by the kin, Julius Caesar. He was an important political…show more content…
His first special quality was his ability to convince and persuade others. For instance, before Caesar’s assassination, Brutus was able to convince the conspirators to spare Antony, rather than have him killed along with Caesar. Brutus explains, “I will myself into the pulpit first and show the reason for our Caesar’s death. What Antony shall speak, I will protest…” (3.1.236-238). His second unique characteristic was his nobility. After his death, Antony backed this fact by stating, “This was the noblest Roman of them all. All the conspirators save only he did that they did in envy of great Caesar.” (5.5.68-70). Brutus proved to be the only conspirator who had noble intentions, killing Caesar out of love for the Roman people, not out of jealousy or hatred. Brutus, also, faced his downfall with courage by showing and honest and willing spirit. Moments before his death, Brutus explained how he truly believed Caesar was a good man and that he was more willing to kill himself than he was to kill Caesar. He expresses how he regretted killing Caesar by declaring, “Caesar, now be still. I killed not thee with half so good a will.”

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