JULIUS CAESAR

by

William Shakespeare

adapted by

Jake Thompson

CHARACTERS

BRUTUS A man of inflexible honor, and supporter of the Republic who believes strongly in a government guided by the votes of the senators. He opposes the ascension of any single man to the position of dictator, and fears that Caesar aspires to such power.

CAESAR A great Roman general and senator, recently returned to Rome in triumph after a successful military campaign. He seems to show no inclination of power hungry or desire for dictatorship. He is unable to separate his public life from his private life. He believes himself to be “as eternal as the North Star.”

ANTONY A good friend of Caesar’s. He claims allegiance to Brutus and the conspirators after Caesar’s death in order to save his own life, but later moves the crowd at Caesar’s funeral to revolt against the conspirators.

CASSIUS A talented general and longtime acquaintance of Caesar. He dislikes the fact that Caesar has become too powerful and must die, finally converting Brutus to his cause. Impulsive and unscrupulous, he harbors no illusions about the way that political world works. A shrewd opportunist, he proves successful but lacks integrity.

OCTAVIUS Caesar’s adopted son and appointed successor. He returns after his father’s death, and while Antony tries to control his movements, he follows his father’s examples and emerges as a leader.

CASCA A public figure opposed to Caesar’s rise to power. He believes Caesar is the consummate actor, lulling the populace into believing that he has no personal ambition.

CAPURNIA Caesar’s wife. She invests great authority in omens and portents.

PORTIA Brutus’ wife, daughter of a noble Roman who took sides against Caesar.

FLAVIUS A tribune elected by the people to protect their rights. He condemns the plebeians for their fickleness in cheering Caesar when they once cheered for Caesar’s enemy Pompey.

CICERO A Roman senator renowned for his oratorical skill.

LEPIDUS The third member of Antony and Octavius’ coalition.

MURELLUS A tribune who condemns the plebeians for their fickleness for cheering Casear.

DECIUS A member of the conspiracy who leads Caesar right into the hands of the conspirators.

ACT I

Scene 1

Marcellus and Flavius, two tribunes, are on stage along with a cobbler.

FLAVIUSHence! Home, you idle creatures, get you home! Is this a holiday? Speak, what trade art thou?

COBBLERTruly, sir, in respect of a fine workman, I am but, as you would say, a cobbler.

MARULLUSBut what trade art thou? Answer me directly.

COBBLERA trade, sir, which is indeed, sir, a mender of bad soles.

FLAVIUSWhat trade, thou knave?

COBBLERNay, I beseech you, sir, be not out with me. Yet if you be out, sir, I can mend you.

MARULLUSWhat mean’st thou by that?

COBBLERTruly, sir, all that I live by is with the awl. I am indeed, sir, a surgeon to old shoes: when they are in great danger, I recover them.

FLAVIUSWhy dost thou lead these men about the streets.

COBBLERTruly, sir, to wear out their shoes, to get myself into more work. But, indeed, sir, we make holiday to see Caesar and to rejoice in his triumph.  

MARULLUSWhy rejoice? What conquest doth he bring home? What spoils follow him as he enters Rome? You cruel men of Rome, knew you not Pompey? How oft have you reached for your infants, then climbed to rooftops to wait the livelong day to see Pompey pass the streets of Rome? When his chariot appeared your shouts would make the trembling edges of the Tiber shake. ‘Tis ingratitude to strew these flowers for his triumph o’er Pompey’s sons. You ought run to your

houses. These growing feathers from Caesar’s wing should be plucked; we dare not let him soar above the view of man less he keep us all in servile fearfulness.

All the commoners exit.

FLAVIUSThey vanish tongue-tied in their guiltiness.

MARULLUSYou know it is the feast of Lupercal.

FLAVIUSIt is no matter. Let no images be hung with Caesar’s trophies. I’ll about and drive away the vulgar from the streets; and do you too, where you perceive them thick.

They exit in different directions.

ACT I

Scene 2

Caesar, his wife Calphurnia, Antony, Brutus, Cassius, Casca and other principals are on stage, along with a soothsayer.

SOOTHSAYERCaesar.

CAESARI hear a tongue shriller than all the music cry “Caesar.” Speak. Caesar is turned to hear.

SOOTHSAYERBeware the ides of March.

CAESARWhat man is that?

The Soothsayer comes forward.

CAESARWhat sayst thou to me now? Speak once again.

SOOTHSAYERBeware the ides of March.

CAESARHe is a dreamer. Let us leave him. Pass.

All but Brutus and Cassius exit.

CASSIUSBrutus, I do observe you now of late. You bear too stubborn and too strange a hand over your friend that loves you.

BRUTUSCassius, be not deceived. If I have veiled my look, I turn the trouble of my countenance merely upon myself. Let not therefore my good friends be grieved nor construe any further my neglect than that poor Brutus, with himself at war, forgets the shows of love to other men.

CASSIUSThen, Brutus, I have much mistook your passion. Tell me, good Brutus, can you see your face?

BRUTUSNo, Cassius, for the eye sees not itself but by reflection.

CASSIUS‘Tis just. I have heard where many of the best respect in Rome, except immortal Caesar, speaking of Brutus and groaning underneath this age’s yoke, have wished that noble Brutus had his eyes.

BRUTUSInto what dangers would you lead me, Cassius, that you would have me seek into myself for that which is not in me?

CASSIUSSince you know you cannot see yourself so well as by reflection, I, your glass, will modestly discover to yourself that of yourself which you yet know not of.

Shouting and Flourish.

BRUTUSWhat means this shouting? I do fear the people choose Caesar for their king.

CASSIUSAy, do you fear it? Then must I think you would not have it so.

BRUTUSI would not, Cassius, yet I love him well. But wherefore do you hold me here so long? What is it that you would impart to me? If it be aught toward the general good, set honor in one eye and death i’ th’ other and I will look on both indifferently; for let the gods so speed me as I love the name of honor more than I fear death. 

CASSIUSI for myself think I had as lief not be, as live as a free born Roman, caught in awe of such a thing as I. We can endure the winter’s cold as well as he. Once, on a raw and gusty day he ran, daring me to leap into the angry sea, and soon cried “Help me, or I sink”. He now has become a revered god, and we, wretched men who bend if he carelessly but nod. In Spain his fevered eyes did glaze and coward lips shake, as he groaned, “Give me some drink,” as a sick child. It doth amaze me a man of such feeble temper shown should lead the world and bear the palm alone.

More Shouts and Flourish

BRUTUSAnother general shout! I do believe that these applauses are for some new honors that are heaped on Caesar. 

CASSIUSHe doth bestride this narrow world of men like a gigantic bronze Colossus, when we petty men peep here about to find ourselves dishonorable graves. Men should be masters of their own fates. The fault, kind Brutus, is ours, that underlings we would be. Upon what meat doth this our

Caesar feed that he hath grown great? Rome hast lost her breed of noble bloods. And in what age can one recall talk of Rome, saying she made her wide walks to encompass but one man? You and I have heard our fathers say they’d as soon let the eternal devil bring his state to Rome than to accept a king.

BRUTUSWhat you have said I will consider; what you have to say I will with patience hear. Till then, my noble friend, chew upon this: Brutus had rather be a villager than to repute himself a son of Rome under these hard conditions as this time is like to lay upon us.

CASSIUSI am glad that my weak words have struck but this much show of fire from Brutus.

Caesar and his entourage enter.

BRUTUSI will do so. But look you, Cassius, the angry spot doth glow on Caesar’s brow. Calphurnia’s cheek is pale.

CASSIUSCasca will tell us what the matter is.

CAESARAntonius.

ANTONYCaesar.

CAESARLet me have men about me that are fat. Yond Cassius has a lean and hungry look. He thinks too much. Such men are dangerous.

ANTONYFear him not, Caesar; he’s not dangerous. He is a noble Roman, and well given.

CAESARWould he were fatter! But I fear him not. Yet if my name were liable to fear, I do not know the man I should avoid so soon as that spare Cassius. I rather tell thee what is to be feared than what I fear; for always I am Caesar.

Caesar and entourage exit. Casca remains.

BRUTUSAy, Casca. Tell us what hath chanced today that Caesar looks so sad.

CASCA

Why, there was a crown offered him; and, being offered him, he put it by with the back of his hand, thus, and then the people fell a-shouting.

BRUTUSWhat was the second noise for?

CASCAWhy, for that too.

BRUTUSTell us the manner of it, gentle, Casca.

CASCAI saw Mark Antony offer him a crown, yet ‘twas not a crown neither, ‘twas one of these coronets, and as I told you, he put it by once; but for all that, to my thinking, he would fain have had it. Then he offered it the third time, and as he refused it, he swooned and fell down at it.

CASSIUSBut soft, I pray you. What, did Caesar swoon?

CASCAHe fell down in the marketplace and foamed at mouth and was speechless.

BRUTUS‘Tis very like; he hath the falling sickness.

CASSIUSNo, Caesar hath it not; but you and I and honest Casca, we have the falling sickness.

CASCAI know not what you mean by that, but I am sure Caesar fell down.

BRUTUSWhat said he when he came unto himself?

CASCAWhen he came to himself again, he said, if he had done or said anything amiss. Three or four wenches where I stood cried “Alas, good soul!” and forgave him with all their hearts. But there’s no heed to be taken of them; if Caesar had stabbed their mothers, they would have done no less.

CASSIUSDid Cicero say anything?

CASCAAy, he spoke Greek.

CASSIUSTo what effect?

CASCAThose that understood him smiled at one another and shook their heads. But for mine own part, it was Greek to me. I could tell you more news too, Marullus and Flavius, for pulling scarves off Caesar’s image, are put to silence.

CASSIUSWill you dine with me tomorrow?

CASCAAy, if I be alive, and your mind hold, and your dinner worth the eating.

CASSIUSGood. I will expect you.

Casca exits.

BRUTUSWhat a blunt fellow is this grown to be! He was quick mettle when he went to school. And so it is. Tomorrow, if you please to speak with me, come home to me, and I will wait for you.

CASSIUSI will do so. Till then, think of the world.

Brutus exits.

CASSIUSWell, Brutus, thou art noble. Therefore it is meet that noble minds keep ever with their likes; for who so firm that cannot be seduced? Caesar doth bear me hard, but he loves Brutus. I will this night in several hands in at his windows throw, as if they came from several citizens, writings, all tending to the great opinion that Rome holds of his name, wherein obscurely Caesar’s ambition shall be glanced at.

He exits.

ACT I

Scene 3

Thunder and lightening are cracking. Casca and Cicero enter.

CICEROGood even, Casca. Why are you breathless? And why stare you so?

CASCAAre not you moved, when all the sway of earth shakes like a thing unfirm? Either there is a civil strife in heaven, or else the world, too saucy with the gods, incenses them to send destruction.

CICEROWhy, saw you anything more wonderful?

CASCAYesterday the bird of night did sit even at noonday upon the marketplace, hooting and shrieking. Let not men say “These are their reasons, they are natural,” for I believe they are portentous things unto the climate than they point upon.

CICEROIndeed, it is a strange-disposed time. But men may construe things after their fashion, clean from the purpose of the things themselves. Comes Caesar to the Capitol tomorrow?

CASCAHe doth.

CICEROGood night then, Casca. This disturbed sky is not to walk in.

Cicero exits. Cassius enters.

CASCACassius, what night is this!

CASSIUSA very pleasing night to honest men.

CASCAWho ever knew the heavens menace so?

CASSIUSThose that have known the earth so full of faults. For my part, I have walked about the streets, submitting me unto the perilous night. When the cross blue lightning seemed to open the breast of heaven, I did present myself even in the aim and very flash of it.

CASCABut wherefore did you so much tempt the heavens? It is the part of men to fear and tremble when the most mighty gods by tokens send such dreadful heralds to astonish us. 

CASSIUSCasca, you lack those Roman sparks of life or choose them not. Your eyes are pale and rife with fear, casting yourself in wonder to see heaven’s strange impatience. The true cause of all these fires, these gliding ghosts, leads you to find these changing acts of nature’s laws as warnings of most fearful quality of a coming monstrous state. Who could we name as one dreadful as this night, who may lighten the night, roar as thunder and be as this lion in the Capitol. A man no mightier than thyself or me has grown as prodigious and come as far, and fearful, as these violent outbursts are.

CASCA‘Tis Caesar that you mean, is it not, Cassius?

CASSIUSLet it be who it is. But, woe the while, our fathers’ minds are dead, and we are governed with our mothers’ spirits. Our yoke and sufferance show us womanish.

CASCAIndeed, they say the Senators tomorrow mean to establish Caesar as a king.

CASSIUSI know where I will wear this dagger then; Cassius from bondage will deliver Cassius.

CASSIUSIf your gods make weak men most strong, then you tyrants do defeat. There’s nothing here to impede the strength of spirit. Life, being weary of worldly bars, ne’er lacks power to dismiss itself. So with my knowing this, the world knows this, and at my pleasure I can shake off any tyranny I might bear. He a wolf, seeing Romans lie as sheep; no lion, were not Romans deer. How weak is Rome when it serves to throw light on such a vile thing as Caesar. It’s here I once said to a willing slave I might act, so I must now act, my message sent. These dangers are to me indifferent.

CASCAHold. My hand.

They shake hands.

CASCAI will set this foot of mine as far as who goes farthest.

CASSIUS

There’s a bargain made. Now know you Casca, I have moved already some certain of the noblest minded Romans to undergo with me an enterprise of honorable-dangerous consequence.

Enter Cinna.

CASSIUSCinna, where haste you so?

CINNAWho’s that? Metellus Cimber?

CASSIUSNo, it is Casca, one incorporate to our attempts.

CINNAI am glad on ‘t.

CASSIUSAm I not stayed for? Tell me.

CINNAYes, you are. O Cassius, if you could but win the noble Brutus to our party.

CASSIUSBe you content. Good Cinna, take this paper. Where Brutus may but find it; and throw this in at his window. All this done, repair to Pompey’s Porch, where you shall find us.

Cinna exits.

CASSIUSCome, Casca, you and I will yet ere day see Brutus at his house.

CASCAO, he sits high in all the people’s hearts, and that which would appear offense in us his countenance will change to virtue and to worthiness.

CASSIUSHim and his worth and our great need of him you have right well conceited.

They exit.

ACT II

Scene 1

Brutus is in his garden late at night.

BRUTUSI cannot by the progress of the stars give guess how near to day. When, Lucius, when? Awake, I say!

Lucius enters.

BRUTUSGet me a taper in my study, Lucius.

He exits.

BRUTUSIt must be by his death. And for my part I know no personal cause to spurn at him, but for the general. How being crowned will change his nature fair is the question. We here must walk with care, snakes being hatched on sunny days. Crown him and we give him the viper’s sting; the line between power and sympathy’s drawn dim; the mind must o’erreach the heart. History’s sign is proof that he who climbs the utmost rung looks above with his back to those who sung cheering praises. He may do what’s been done; lest he may, act. Since the present quarrel has weaknesses, say with the crown he would run from these to those extremes. Think of him as a serpent’s egg, which, as his kind, hatched, well could grow harmful. So kill him in the shell.

Lucius ensters.

LUCIUSSearching the window for a flint, I found this paper, thus sealed up.

BRUTUSIs not tomorrow, boy, the ides of March? Look in the calendar, and bring me word.

Lucius exits. Brutus opens the letter. The letter reads: Brutus, thou sleep’st. Awake. Speak, strike, redress.

BRUTUSMy ancestors did from the streets of Rome the Tarquin drive when he was called a king. O Rome, I make thee promise, if the redress will follow, thou receivest thy full petition at the hand of Brutus.

Lucius enters.

LUCIUS

Sir, March is wasted fifteen days.

There’s a knock on the door. Lucius exits. Lucius re-enters.

LUCIUSSir, ‘tis your brother-in-law Cassius at the door, who doth desire to see you. There are more with him.

BRUTUSDo you know them?

LUCIUSNo, sir. Their hats are plucked about their ears, and half their faces buried in their cloaks.

BRUTUSLet ‘em enter.

Lucius exits.

BRUTUSO conspiracy, sham’st thou to show thy dang’rous brow by night, when evils are most free? Seek none, conspiracy. Hide it in smiles and affability.

Cassius, Casca, Decius, Cinna, Metellus and Trebonius, the Conspirators, enter.

CASSIUSGood morrow, Brutus. Do we trouble you?

BRUTUSI have been up this hour, awake all night. Know I these men that come along with you?

CASSIUSYes, every man of them; and no man here but honors you.

BRUTUSThey are all welcome. Give me your hands all over, one by one.

CASSIUSAnd let us swear our resolution.

BRUTUSNo, not an oath. If these motives weak, let’s break it off now, and each man hence to his idle bed vow to return. But if these strong enough to kindle cowards, then countrymen, why need we any spur more than our cause? What do we need as a bond other than our creed as resolute Romans? What other oath than that this shall be or we will die? Loath souls welcome wrongs and bad causes swear. So stain not the virtue of our plan or will to think our cause needs an oath when

would flow every drop of noble Roman blood still if any one of us succumbed to fear and broke the promise made by being here.

CASSIUSBut what of Cicero? O think he will stand very strong with us.

CASCALet us not leave him out.

DECIUSShall no man else be touched, but only Caesar?

CASSIUSDecius, well urged. Let Antony and Caesar fall together.

BRUTUSOur course will seem too bloody, Caius Cassius. We all stand up against the spirit of Caesar, and in the spirit of men there is no blood. We shall be called purgers, not murderers. And for Mark Antony, think not of him, for he can do no more than Caesar’s arm when Caesar’s head is off.

CASSIUSYet I fear him.

BRUTUSAlas, good Cassius, do not think of him.

TREBONIUSThere is no fear in him. Let him not die, for he will live and laugh at this hereafter. ‘Tis time to part.

CASSIUSBut it is doubtful yet whether Caesar will come forth today or no, for he is superstitious grown of late.

DECIUSNever fear that. Let me work. And I will bring him to the Capitol.

CASSIUSThe morning comes upon ‘s. We’ll leave you, Brutus. And, friends, disperse yourselves, but all remember what you have said, and show yourselves true Romans.

BRUTUSGood gentlemen, look fresh and merrily. Let not our looks put on our purposes.

All but Brutus exit. Portia enters.

BRUTUSPortia! Wherefore rise you now? It is not for your health thus to commit your weak condition to the raw cold morning.

PORTIANor for yours neither. You’ve ungently, Brutus, stole from your bed; so, to honor that vow when we did wed, which did incorporate and make us one, unfold to me by virtue of my place what I ought know. A sick offense doth run within your mind; the secrets in your face should not be within our marriage bond. Shun me as I yourself in limitation? Dwell I but in the suburbs of your life? I grant I am a woman, but referred as Cato’s daughter and Brutus’ wife. Think I am not strong being so fathered and so husbanded? Your heavy mind foretells your fears; fear not I’ll disclose your counsels.

PORTIAWhat men tonight have had resort to you; for here have been some six or seven who did hide their faces even from darkness.

BRUTUSYou are my true and honorable wife, as dear to me as are the ruddy drops that visit my sad heart.

PORTIAIf this were true, then should I know this secret. I grant I am a woman, but withal a woman that Lord Brutus took to wife.

BRUTUSO you gods, render me worthy of this noble wife! Portia, go in awhile, and by and by all my engagements I will construe to thee, all the charactery of my sad brows.

She exits.

ACT II

Scene 2

Thunder and lightening are cracking, and Caesar is up.

CAESARNor heaven nor earth have been at peace tonight.

Calphurnia enters.

CALPHURNIAWhat mean you, Caesar? Think you to walk forth? You shall not stir out of your house today.

CAESARCaesar shall forth.

CALPHURNIACaesar, I never stood on ceremonies, yet now they fright me. O, Caesar, these things are beyond all use, and I do fear them. 

CAESARHow can one avoid the end purposed by the mighty gods? I shall go. Cowards die many times before their death; the valiant never taste of death but once. Of all the wonders, ‘tis most strange that men try to vent death, seeing that death, a necessary end, will come when it will come. Caesar were a beast would he stay for fear, Danger knowing well that I am more dangerous than he; I the elder and more fearsome, but you do fear. The gods do this to us, Calphurnia, to shame cowardice. Come, let not the Senate postpone their plans made with such whispers that Caesar is afraid.

CALPHURNIAAlas, my lord, your wisdom is consumed in confidence. Do not go forth today. We’ll send Mark Antony to the Senate House, and he shall say you are not well today.

CAESARMark Antony shall say I am not well. And for thy humor I will stay at home.

Decius enters.

DECIUSWorthy Caesar. I come to fetch you to the Senate House.

CAESARTell them that I will not come today. Cannot is false, and that I dare not, falser. I will not come today. Tell them so, Decius.

CALPHURNIASay he is sick.

CAESARShall Caesar send a lie? Have I in conquest stretched mine arm so far, to be afeard to tell graybeards the truth? Decius, go tell them Caesar will not come.

DECIUSLet me know some cause, lest I be laughed at when I tell them so.

CAESARThe cause is in my will. I will not come. That is enough to satisfy the Senate.

DECIUSThe Senate have concluded to give this day a crown to mighty Caesar. If you shall send them word you will not come, their minds may change. If Caesar hide himself, shall they not whisper “Lo, Caesar is afraid?”

CAESARHow foolish do your fears seem now, Calphurnia! I am ashamed I did yield to them. Give me my robe, for I will go.

Brutus, Metellus, Casca, Trebonius, Cinna and Publius enter.

PUBLIUSGood morrow, Caesar.

CAESARWhat, Brutus, are you stirred so early too? Good morrow, Casca,

Antony enters.

ANTONYSo to most noble Caesar.

CAESARBid them prepare within. I am to blame to be thus waited for. We, like friends, will straightway go together.

They exit.

ACT II

Scene 3

Artemidorus is on stage reading a letter. In part the letter reads: Caesar, beware of Brutus, take heed of Cassius, come not near Casca, have an eye to Cinna, trust not Trebonius. There is but one mind in all these men, and it is bent against Caesar. Security gives way to conspiracy.

ARTEMIDORUSHere will I stand till Caesar pass along. If thou read this, O Caesar, thou mayst live; if not, the fates with traitors do contrive.

He exits.

ACT II

Scene 4

Portia and Lucius are on stage.

PORTIAI prithee, boy, run to the Senate House. Why dost thou stay?

LUCIUSMadam, what should I do?

PORTIAYes, bring me word, boy, if thy lord look well. Hark, boy, what noise is that?

LUCIUSSooth, madam, I hear nothing.

The Soothsayer enters.

PORTIAThou hast some suit to Caesar, hast thou not?

SOOTHSAYERThat I have, lady. If it will please Caesar to be so good to Caesar as to hear me, I shall beseech him to befriend himself.

PORTIAWhy, know’st thou any harms intended towards him?

SOOTHSAYERNone that I know will be, much that I fear may chance. I’ll get me to a place more void, and there speak to great Caesar as he comes along.

He exits.

PORTIAI must go in. Run, Lucius, and commend me to my lord. Say I am merry.

The exit separately.

ACT III

Scene 1

Caesar, the Soothsayer, Artemidorus, the Conspirators and many others are on stage.

CAESARThe ides of March are come

SOOTHSAYERAy, Caesar, but not gone.

DECIUSTrebonius doth desire you to o’erread, at your best leisure, this his humble suit.

ARTEMIDORUSO Caesar, read mine first, for mine’s a suit that touches Caesar nearer. Read it, great Caesar. Delay not, Caesar; read it instantly.

CAESARWhat, is the fellow mad?

PUBLIUSSirrah, give place.

Caesar moves forward.

CAESARAre we all ready? What is now amiss that Caesar and his Senate must redress?

METELLUSMost high, most mighty, and most puissant Caesar, Metellus Cimber throws before thy seat an humble heart.

CAESARI must prevent thee, Cimber. Thy brother by decree is banished. If thou dost bend and pray and fawn for him, I spurn thee like a cur out of my way.

METELLUSIs there no voice more worthy than my own to sound more sweetly in great Caesar’s ear for the repealing of my banished brother?

BRUTUSI kiss thy hand, desiring thee that Publius Cimber may have an immediate freedom of repeal.

CASSIUSPardon, Caesar, pardon! As low as to thy foot doth Cassius fall to beg enfranchisement for Publius Cimber.

CAESARI could be well moved, if I were as you. If I could pray to move, prayers would move me. But I am constant as the Northern Star. I was constant Cimber should be banished and constant do remain to keep him so.

CINNAO Caesar.

DECIUSGreat Caesar.

CASCASpeak, hands, for me!

As Casca strikes, the others rise up and stab Caesar.

CAESAREt tu, Brute? Then fall, Caesar.

He dies.

CINNALiberty! Freedom! Tyranny is dead! Run hence, proclaim, cry it about the streets.

BRUTUSPeople and senators, be not affrighted. Fly not; stand still. Ambition’s debt is paid.

All but the Conspirators exit. Trebonius enters.

CASSIUSWhere is Antony?

TREBONIUSFled to his house amazed. Men, wives, and children stare, cry out, and run as it were doomsday.

BRUTUSThat we shall die we know; ‘tis but the time, and drawing days out, that men stand upon.

CASCAWhy, he that cuts off twenty years of life cuts off so many years of fearing death.

BRUTUS

Grant that, and then is death a benefit. So are we Caesar’s friends, that have abridged his time of fearing death.

CASSIUSHow many ages hence shall this our lofty scene be acted over in states unborn and accents yet unknown!

DECIUSWhat, shall we forth?

A servant enters.

BRUTUSSoft, who comes here? A friend of Antony’s

SERVANTThus, Brutus, did my master bid me knee. If Brutus will vouchsafe that Antony may safely come to him and be resolved how Caesar hath deserved to lie in death, Mark Antony shall not love Caesar dead so well as Brutus living, but will follow the fortunes and affairs of noble Brutus through the hazards of this untrod state with all true faith. So says my master Antony.

BRUTUSTell him, so please him come unto this place, he shall be satisfied and, by my honor, depart untouched.

Servant exits.

BRUTUSI know that we shall have him well to friend.

CASSIUSI wish we may; but yet have I a mind that fears him much.

Antony enters.

ANTONYI do beseech you, if you bear me hard, now fulfill your pleasure. Live a thousand years, I shall not find myself so apt to die; no place will please me so, no mean of death, as here by Caesar, and by you cut off, the choice and master spirits of this age.

BRUTUSO Antony, beg not your death of us! For your part, to you our swords have leaden points, Mark Antony. Our arms in strength of malice, and our hearts of brothers’ temper, do receive you in with all kind love, good thoughts, and reverence. Only be patient till we have appeased the multitude, beside themselves with fear; and then we will deliver you the cause why I, that did love Caesar when I struck him, have thus proceeded.

ANTONYI doubt not of your wisdom. Gentlemen all----alas, what shall I say? My credit now stands on such slippery ground that one of two bad ways you must conceit me, either a coward or a flatterer. That I did love thee, Caesar, O, ‘tis true! O world, the heart of thee. How like a deer stricken by many princes dost thou here lie!

CASSIUSI blame you not for praising Caesar so. But what compact mean you to have with us? Will you be pricked in number of our friends, or shall we on and not depend on you?

ANTONYFriends am I with you all and love you all, upon this hope, that you shall give me reasons why and wherein Caesar was dangerous.

BRUTUSOr else where this a savage spectacle. Our reasons are so full of good regard that were you, Antony, the son of Caesar, you should be satisfied.

ANTONYThat’s all I seek; and am, moreover, suitor that I may produce his body to the marketplace, and in the pulpit, as becomes a friend, speak in the order of his funeral.

BRUTUSYou shall, Mark Antony.

CASSIUS(Aside to BRUTUS)

You know not what you do. Do not consent that Antony speak in his funeral. Know you how much the people may be moved by that which he will utter?

BRUTUS(Aside to CASSIUS)

By your pardon, I will myself into the pulpit first and show the reason of our Caesar’s death. What Antony shall speak I will protest he speaks by leave and by permission.

CASSIUS(Aside to BRUTUS)

I know not what may fall. I like it not.

BRUTUSMark Antony, here, take you Caesar’s body. You shall not in your funeral speech blame us but speak all good you can devise of Caesar and say you do ‘t by our permission. And you shall speak in the same pulpit whereto I am going, after my speech is ended.

ANTONY

Be it so. I do desire no more.

All but Antony exit.

ANTONYO pardon me, thou bleeding piece of earth, that I am meek and gentle with these butchers. Thou art the ruins of the noblest man that ever lived in the tide of times. Woe to the hand that shed this costly blood!

Octavius, Caesar’s, servant enters.

ANTONYYou serve Octavius Caesar, do you not?

SERVANTI do, Mark Antony.

ANTONYCaesar did write for him to come to Rome.

SERVANTHe did receive his letters and is coming. He lies tonight within seven leagues of Rome.

ANTONYPost back with speed and tell him what hath chanced. Here is a mourning Rome, a dangerous Rome, no Rome of safety for Octavius yet. Lend me your hand.

They exit with Caesar’s body.

ACT III

Scene 2

Brutus and Cassius are on stage with Plebeians.

PLEBEIANSWe will be satisfied! Let us be satisfied!

BRUTUSThen follow me and give me audience, friends.

FIRST PLEBEIANI will hear Brutus speak.

Brutus goes into the pulpit.

THIRD PLEBEIANThe noble Brutus is ascended. Silence.

BRUTUSBe patient till the last. Romans, hear me for my cause. Silent be that you hear. For my honour, believe me; respect mine honour that you may believe. Wake your senses that you be a better judge. As for my dear friend, Brutus doth grieve for Caesar, as you would, if this death were of any in this assembly’s best friend. Not that I loved Caesar less; in the end I loved Rome more. Had you rather Caesar alive and die slaves? As he ambitious, I slew him. As he valiant, I honour him. Who here offended; who among us is not a Roman? With this I depart. when needed, this dagger goes through my heart. If any, speak, for him have I offended. I pause for a reply.

PLEBEIANSNone, Brutus, none.

BRUTUSThen none have I offended.

Mark Antony and others enter with Caesar’s body.

BRUTUSGood countrymen, let me depart alone, and, for my sake, stay here with Antony. I do entreat you, not a man depart, save I alone, till Antony have spoke.

He descends and exits.

ANTONYFor Brutus’ sake, I am beholding to you.

He goes into the pulpit.

FIRST PLEBEIANThis Caesar was a tyrant.

THIRD PLEBEIANNay that’s certain. We are blest that Rome is rid of him.

SECOND PLEBEIANPeace, let us hear what Antony can say. 

ANTONYFriends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears. I come not to praise good that was Caesar’s, but to bury him. The evil that men do lives after them; good is oft interred with their bone. Caesar was my friend, but then Brutus says it was ambition that blurred Caesar’s vision and you know Brutus is a just and honorable man. When his poor have cried, Caesar hath wept. Ambition should be of sterner stuff. He refused to accept the crown. This ambition? As one, you loved him, with just cause; what cause holds you to mourn for him? O judgment, thou hath run to brutish beasts. Men have lost their reason! Bear with me; My heart is in the coffin there with Caesar, and I must pause till it come back to me.

FIRST PLEBEIANMethinks there is much reason in his sayings.

THIRD PLEBEIANHas he, masters? I fear there will a worse come in his place.

FOURTH PLEBEIANMarked you his words? He would not take the crown; therefore ‘tis certain he was not ambitious.

THIRD PLEBEIANThere’s not a nobler man in Rome than Antony.

FOURTH PLEBEIANNow mark him. He begins again to speak. 

ANTONYIf I were disposed to stir at this stage your hearts and minds to mutiny and rage, I should do Brutus and just Cassius wrong, both honorable men, as you all know. With the seal intact, I have found this long parchment. ‘Tis his will, which I dare not show, but that the commons hear, they’d beg a hair of him as a legacy unto their issue. Being men, ‘tis best you not hear Caesar’s will. Gentle friends, ‘tis best I bar you from it; that you know not how Caesar loved you. ‘Tis good you know not that you are his heirs; better to know not what’s here writ, for if you should, o, what would come of it?

FOURTH PLEBEIAN

Read the will! We’ll hear it, Antony.

ANTONYI have o’ershot myself to tell you of it. I fear I wrong the honorable men whose daggers have stabbed Caesar. I do fear it.

FOURTH PLEBEIANThey were traitors. Honorable men?

SECOND PLEBEIANThey were villains, murderers. The will! Read the will.

ANTONYYou will compel me, then, to read the will? Then make a ring about the corpse of Caesar, and let me show you him that made the will.

Antony descends.

PLEBEIANSStand back! Room! Bear back! 

ANTONY‘Twas a summer’s evening when Caesar wore first this cloak. Here, Cassius’ dagger tore through. See the rip envious Casca made. And through here the well beloved Brutus thrust. Now mark how as he plucked the cursed blade away, Caesar’s blood rushed out in distrust that it could be Brutus, for Brutus was his angel. It the least kind cut, because Caesar loved him. The ingratitude, when great Caesar saw him stab, burst his mighty heart, and noble Caesar fell, a fall then heard by peaceful men throughout the country, while you and I and others fell useless, while bloody treason flourished over us.

Antony lifts Caesar’s cloak.

ANTONYHere is himself, marred as you see with traitors.

THIRD PLEBEIANO woeful day!

FIRST PLEBEIANO most bloody sight!

PLEBEIANSRevenge! About! Seek! Burn! Fire! Let not a traitor live.

ANTONYStay, countrymen.

FIRST PLEBEIANPeace there! Hear the noble Antony.

SECOND PLEBEIANWe’ll hear him, we’ll follow him, we’ll die with him. 

ANTONYGood friends, sweet friends, let me not stir you up to a flood of revenge o’er this abrupt deed. They are wise and honorable men and I know not their private griefs that led them to it. No doubt there’ll be a time when with reasons they’ll answer you. As I’ve said, I’m a plain blunt man, not an orator, as Brutus is. I have neither wit no words, nor worth, nor action, nor do I bearThe strength of speech to stir men’s blood. But were I Brutus, and Brutus Antony, there be an Antony to ruffle up your wills. With his golden tongue, this Antony could move the stones of Rome to mutiny.

PLEBEIANSWe’ll mutiny.

FIRST PLEBEIANWe’ll burn the house of Brutus.

THIRD PLEBEIANCome, seek the conspirators.

ANTONYYou have forgot the will I told you of.

PLEBEIANSMost true. The will! Let’s stay and hear the will.

ANTONYHere is the will, and under Caesar’s seal; to every Roman citizen he gives, to every several man, seventy-five drachmas. Moreover, he hath left you all his walks, his private arbors, and new-planted orchards. Here was a Caesar! When comes such another?

Plebeians exit with Caesar’s body.

ANTONYNow let it work. Mischief, thou art afoot; take thou what course thou wilt.

A servant enters.

SERVANTSir, Octavius is already come to Rome.

ANTONYWhere is he?

SERVANTHe and Lepidus are at Caesar’s house. I heard him say Brutus and Cassius are rid like madmen through the gates of Rome.

ANTONYBelike they had some notice of the people how I had moved them. Bring me to Octavius.

They exit.

ACT III

Scene 3

Cinna the poet enters, followed by the plebeians.

CINNAI dreamt tonight that I did feast with Caesar.

FIRST PLEBEIANWhat is your name?

SECOND PLEBEIANWhither are you going?

FOURTH PLEBEIANAre you a married man or a bachelor?

CINNAWhat is my name? Whither am I going? Am I a married man or a bachelor? Wisely I say, I am a bachelor.

SECOND PLEBEIANThat’s as much as to say they are fools that marry.

THIRD PLEBEIANYour name, sir, truly.

CINNATruly, my name is Cinna.

FIRST PLEBEIANHe’s a conspirator.

CINNAI am Cinna the poet, I am Cinna the poet! I am not Cinna the conspirator.

FIRST PLEBEIANIt is no matter. His name is Cinna.

THIRD PLEBEIANTear him. To Brutus’, to Cassius’, burn all! Some to Decius’ house.

The plebeians exit, carrying off Cinna.

ACT IV

Scene 1

Antony, Octavius and Lepidus are on stage.

ANTONYThese many, then, shall die; their names are marked for death.

OCTAVIUSYour brother too must die. Consent you, Lepidus?

LEPIDUSI do consent. Who is your sister’s son, Mark Antony.

ANTONYHe shall not live. Lepidus, go you to Caesar’s house; fetch the will hither.

Lepidus exits.

ANTONYThis is a slight, unmeritable man, meet to be sent on errands. Is it fit, the threefold world divided, he should stand one of the three to share it?

OCTVIUSYou may do your will, but he’s a tried and valiant soldier.

ANTONYSo is my horse. Do not talk of him but as a property. And now, Octavius, listen great things. Brutus and Cassius are levying powers. Therefore let our alliance be combined, our best friends made, our means stretched.

OCTAVIUSLet us do so, for we are at the stake and bayed about with many enemies, and some that smile have in their hearts, I fear, millions of mischiefs.

They exit.

ACT IV

Scene 2

Brutus, Lucilius, others and their army are on stage.

BRUTUSWhat now, Lucilius, is Cassius near?

LUCILIUSHe is at hand.

Brutus and Lucilius walk aside.

BRUTUSA word Lucilius. How he received you.

LUCILIUSWith courtesy and with respect enough, but not with such familiar instances, nor with such free and friendly conference as he hath used of old.

BRUTUSThou hast described a hot friend cooling. Ever note, Lucilius, when love begins to sicken and decay it useth an unnatural ceremony. Comes his army on?

Cassius and his powers enter.

BRUTUSHark, he is arrived. March gently on to meet him.

CASSIUSMost noble brother, you have done me wrong.

BRUTUSJudge me, you gods! Wrong I mine enemies? And if not so, how should I wrong a brother?

CASSIUSBrutus, this sober form of yours hides wrongs.

BRUTUSCassius, be content. Speak your griefs softly. I do know you well. In my tent, Cassius, enlarge your griefs, and I will give you audience. Lucius, let no man come to our tent till we have done our conference.

All but Brutus and Cassius exit.

ACT IV

Scene 3

Cassius and Brutus are in their tent.

CASSIUSYou have condemned and noted Lucius Pella for taking bribes here of the Sardians.

BRUTUSLet me tell you, Cassius, you yourself are much condemned to have an itching palm, to sell and mart your offices for gold to undeservers.

CASSIUSI an itching palm? You know that you are Brutus that speaks this, or, this speech were else your last.

BRUTUSDid not great Julius bleed for justice’ sake? What, shall one of us that struck the foremost man of all this world but for supporting robbers, shall we now contaminate our fingers with base bribes? I had rather be a dog and bay the moon than such a Roman.

CASSIUSBrutus, bait not me. I’ll not endure it. I am a soldier, I, older in practice, abler than yourself to make conditions.

BRUTUSYou are not, Cassius.

CASSIUSI am.

BRUTUSI say you are not.

CASSIUSUrge me no more. Tempt me no farther.

BRUTUSHear me, for I will speak.

CASSIUSO you gods, must I endure all this?

BRUTUS

Fret till your proud heart break. Must I stand and crouch under your testy humor? For, from this day forth, I’ll use you for my mirth, yea, for my laughter, when you are waspish.

CASSIUSIs it come to this?

BRUTUSYou say you are a better soldier.

CASSIUSYou wrong me every way, you wrong me, Brutus. I said an elder soldier, not a better. Did I say “better?”

BRUTUSIf you did, I care not.

CASSIUSWhen Caesar lived he durst not thus have moved me.

BRUTUSYou durst not so have tempted him.

CASSIUSDo not presume too much upon my love. I may do that I shall be sorry for.

BRUTUSYou have done that you should be sorry for. There is no terror, Cassius, in your threat, for my honesty is such that threats get in my way as the idle wind, which I respect not. You denied me when I asked for funds, since I can raise no money by vile means. I would rather my heart be tasked to coin drachmas than to wring from the hands of peasants their money earned from their lands. When I asked for help, Cassius, you turned me down. Was that you, Cassius? Would I have come to such action? If ever Brutus be so callous as to keep a few coins from his friends, be ready, gods, with all your fits, storms and thunderbolts to dash him to bits.

CASSIUSI denied you not.

BRUTUSYou did.

CASSIUSI did not. He was but a fool that brought my answer back.

BRUTUSI do not like your faults.

CASSIUSA friendly eye could never see such faults.

BRUTUSA flatterer’s would not, though they do appear as huge as high Olympus.

CASSIUSCome, Antony, and young Octavius, come! Revenge yourselves alone on Cassius, for Cassius is aweary of the world. O, I could weep my spirit from mine eyes! There is my dagger.

Cassius offers his dagger to Brutus.

CASSIUSIf that thou be’st a Roman, take it forth. I that denied thee gold will give my heart. Strike as thou didst at Caesar.

BRUTUSSheathe your dagger. O Cassius, you are yoked with a lamb that carriers anger as the flint bears fire.

CASSIUSHath Cassius loved to be but mirth and laughter to his Brutus when grief and blood ill-tempered vexeth him?

BRUTUSWhen I spoke that, I was ill-tempered too.

CASSIUSDo you confess so much? Give me your hand.

They clasp hands. A poet enters, followed by Lucius.

CASSIUSHow now, what’s the matter?

POETFor shame, you generals, what do you mean? Love and be friends as two such men should be, for I have seen more years, I’m sure, than ye.

CASSIUSHa, ha, how vilely doth this cynic rhyme!

BRUTUSGet you hence, sirrah! Saucy fellow, hence!

The Poet exits.

BRUTUSLucius, a bowl of wine.

Lucius exits.

CASSIUSI did not think you could have been so angry.

BRUTUSO Cassius, I am sick of many griefs. No man bears sorrow better. Portia is dead.

CASSIUSHow ‘scaped I killing when I crossed you so? O insupportable and touching loss! Upon what sickness?

BRUTUSImpatient of my absence, and grief that young Octavius with Mark Antony have made themselves so strong.

Lucius enters with the wine and candles.

BRUTUSSpeak no more of her. Give me a bowl of wine. In this I bury all unkindness, Cassius.

CASSIUSMy heart is thirsty for that noble pledge. Fill, Lucius, till the wine o’erswell the cup; I cannot drink too much of Brutus’ love.

They drink. Lucius exits. Titinius and Messala enter.

BRUTUSMessala, I have here received letters that young Octavius and Mark Antony come down upon us with a mighty power, bending their expedition toward Philippi.

MESSALAMyself have letters of the selfsame tenor.

BRUTUSWith what addition?

MESSALAOctavius, Antony and Lepidus have put to death an hundred senators.

BRUTUSWhat do you think of marching to Philippi presently?

CASSIUSI do not think it good.

BRUTUSYour reason?

CASSIUS‘Tis better that the enemy seek us; so shall he waste his means, weary his soldiers, doing himself offense, whilst we, lying still, are full of rest, defense, and nimbleness.

BRUTUSGood reasons must of force give way to better. The people ‘twixt Philippi and this ground do support us grudgingly, but it’s found a forced affection. Marching along by them, the enemy will add men they lack who are refreshed with their emotions high, where we’ll have then these people at our back if we meet him at Philippi. The tide in the affairs of men taken when wide leads on to fortune; omitted, men see their life voyages shattered and they tote life in the shallows, bound in misery. On such a full sea we are now afloat, and act we must as this fortune occurs and the current serves, or lose our ventures.

CASSIUSThen, with your will, go on; we’ll along ourselves and meet them at Philippi.

BRUTUSThe deep of night is crept upon our talk, and nature must obey necessity.

CASSIUSEarly tomorrow will we rise and hence.

All but Brutus and Lucius exit. Lucius falls asleep.

BRUTUSLet me see, where I left reading? Here it is, I think. How ill this taper burns.

The Ghost of Caesar enters.

BRUTUSHa, who comes here? I think it is the weakness of mine eyes that shapes this monstrous apparition. Speak to me what thou art.

GHOSTThy evil spirit, Brutus.

BRUTUSWhy com’st thou?

GHOSTTo tell thee thou shalt see me at Philippi.

BRUTUSWhy, I will see thee at Philippi, then.

The Ghost exits.

BRUTUSBoy, Lucius! Awake. Claudius!

LUCIUSMy lord?

BRUTUSDidst thou dream, Lucius, that thou so criedst out?

LUCIUSMy lord, I do not know that I did cry.

BRUTUSYes, that thou didst. Didst thou see anything?

LUCIUSNothing, my lord.

BRUTUSSleep again, Lucius. Sirrah Claudius! Varro!

CLAUDIUSMy lord?

VARROMy lord?

BRUTUSWhy did you so cry out in your sleep?

BOTHDid we, my lord?

BRUTUSAy. Saw you anything?

VARRONo, my lord, I saw nothing.

CLAUDIUSNor I, my lord.

BRUTUSGo and commend me to my brother Cassius. Bid him set on his powers betimes before. And we will follow.

They exit.

ACT V

Scene 1

Octavius, Antony and their army are on stage.

OCTAVIUSNow, Antony, our hopes are answered. They mean to warn us at Philippi here, answering before we do demand of them.

A messenger enters.

MESSENGERPrepare you, generals. The enemy comes on in gallant show.

Brutus, Cassius and their army enters. Octavius and Antony step forward.

BRUTUSWords before blows; is it so, countrymen?

ANTONYBrutus, you give good words. Witness the hole you made in Caesar’s heart. You bowed like bondmen, kissing Caesar’s feet, whilst Casca, like a cur, behind struck Caesar on the neck. O you flatterers!

CASSIUSFlatterers?

OCTAVIUSCome, come, the cause. If arguing make us sweat, the proof of it will turn to redder drops. Look, I draw a sword against Conspirators.

BRUTUSCaesar, thou canst not die by traitors’ hands unless thou bring’st them with thee.

OCTAVIUSSo I hope. I was not born to die on Brutus’ sword.

BRUTUSO, young man, thou couldst not die more honorable.

CASSIUSA peevish schoolboy, worthless of such honor, joined with a masker and a reveler!

ANTONYOld Cassius still.

OCTAVIUSCome, Antony, away! If you dare fight today, come to the field; if not, when you have stomachs.

Octavius, Antony and their army exit. Brutus steps aside.

CASSIUSMessala.

MESSALAWhat says my general?

CASSIUSThis is my birthday, as this very day was Cassius born. This morning do ravens, crows, and kites fly o’er our heads and downward look on us as we were sickly prey. Their shadows seem a canopy most fatal, under which our army lies, ready to give up the ghost.

MESSALABelieve it not.

CASSIUSI but believe it partly, for I am fresh of spirit and resolved to meet all perils very constantly.

Brutus returns.

CASSIUSNow, most noble Brutus, the gods today stand friendly that we may, lovers in peace, lead on our days to age. Since the affairs of men vest uncertain, let’s pause, for if we lose this battle, then this is the last time we two speak. What do you now plan, Brutus? Through providence I find it vile to fear what might fall and to prevent the time of life; rather led by some high powers that govern us below. If we lose, are you willing to be so led through Rome as a prisoner in tow? This same day must end that work to defeat what we began. If we not to be, so our forever farewells take. If we meet again, we shall smile; if not, we’ll have bade our final farewells, this parting well made.

BRUTUSWhy then, lead on. Sufficeth that the day will end, and then the end is known. Come on, away!

They exit.

ACT V

Scene 2

Brutus sends his legions into battle.

BRUTUSLet them set on at once. Ride, ride, Messala! Let them all come down.

They exit.

ACT V

Scene 3

A trumpet calls to arms. Cassius and Titinius are on stage.

CASSIUSO, look, Titinius, look, the villains fly!

TITINIUSO Cassius, Brutus gave the word too early, who, having some advantage on Octavius. His soldiers fell to looting, whilst we by Antony are all enclosed.

Pindarus enters.

PINDARUSMy lord, fly further off! Mark Antony is in your tents, my lord.

CASSIUSLook, look, Titinius, are those my tents where I perceive the fire?

TITINIUSThey are, my lord.

CASSIUSTitinius, mount thou my horse and hide thy spurs in him till he have brought thee up to yonder troops and here again, that I may rest assured whether yond troops are friend or enemy.

Titinius exits.

CASSIUSGo, Pindarus, get higher on that hill. Regard Titinius and tell me what thou not’st about the field.

Pindarus goes up the hill.

PINDARUSTitinius is enclosed round about with horsemen that make to him on the spur, yet he spurs on. Now they are almost on him. He’s ta’en.

Pindarus comes down from the hill.

CASSIUSCome hither, sirrah. In Parthia did I take thee prisoner, and then I swore thee, saving of thy life, that whatsoever I did bid thee do thou shouldst attempt it. Come now, keep thine oath. Now be a freeman, and with this good sword, that ran through Caesar’s bowels, search this bosom. Stand not to answer. And, when my face is covered, as ‘tis now, guide thou the sword.

Pindarus stabs him. Cassius dies.

PINDARUSSo I am free. O Cassius! Far from this country Pindarus shall run, where never Roman shall take note of him.

He exits. Titinius and Messala enter.

MESSASLAIt is but change, Titinius, for Octavius is overthrown by noble Brutus’ power, as Cassius’ legions are by Antony.

TITINIUSThese tidings will well comfort Cassius.

MESSALAIs not that he?

TITINIUSNo, this was he, Messala, but Cassius is no more. The sun of Rome is set. Our day is gone; clouds, dews, and dangers come. Our deeds are done. Mistrust of my success hath done this deed.

MESSALAMistrust of good success hath done this deed. O hateful error, melancholy’s child, why dost thou show to the apt thoughts of men the things that are not?

TITINIUSWhat, Pindarus! Where art thou, Pindarus?

MESSALASeek him, Titinius, whilst I go to meet the noble Brutus, thrusting this report into his ears.

TITINIUSHie you, Messala, and I will seek for Pindarus the while.

Messala exits.

TITINIUSAlas, thou hast misconstrued everything. But hold thee, take this garland on thy brow.

He lays the garland on Cassius’ brow.

TITINIUS

Brutus, come apace, and see how I regarded Caius Cassius. Come, Cassius’ sword, and find Titinius’ heart!

He dies on Cassius’ sword. Brutus, Messala, Cato and others enter.

BRUTUSO Julius Caesar, thou art mighty yet; thy spirit walks abroad and turns our swords in our own proper entrails.

CATOBrave Titinius! Look whe’er he have not crowned dead Cassius.

BRUTUSAre yet two Romans living such as these? The last of all the Romans, fare thee well. Friends, I owe more tears to this dead man than you shall see me pay. I shall find time, Cassius, I shall find time. Let us to the field. ‘Tis three o’clock, and, Romans, yet ere night we shall try fortune in a second fight.

They exit.

ACT V

Scene 4

Brutus, Messala, Lucilius and others are on stage.

BRUTUSYet, countrymen, O, yet hold up your heads!

Brutus, Messala, and Flavius exit. Antony’s legions enter.

LUCILIUSAnd I am Brutus, Marcus Brutus, I!

A soldier seizes Lucilius.

SOLDIERYield, or thou diest.

LUCILIUSOnly I yield to die. Kill Brutus and be honored in his death.

Antony enters.

SOLDIERHere come the General. Brutus is ta’en.

ANTONYWhere is he?

LUCILIUSSafe, Antony. I dare assure thee that no enemy shall ever take alive the noble Brutus.

ANTONYThis is not Brutus. Keep this man safe. I had rather have such men my friends than enemies.

They exit in different directions.

ACT V

Scene 5

Brutus and others are on stage. Dardanus and Clitus step aside.

CLITUSWhat ill request did Brutus make to thee?

DARDANUSTo kill him, Clitus. Look, he meditates.

CLITUSNow is that noble vessel full of grief, that it runs over even at his eyes.

BRUTUSCome hither, good Volumnius.

VOLUMNIUSWhat says my lord?

BRUTUSThe ghost of Caesar hath appeared to me two several times by night-----at Sardis once and this last night here in Philippi fields. Men, my hour has now come. Our enemy hath thrust us to the edge. ‘Tis more worthy to leap over ourselves than tarry till they push us. Countrymen, my heart doth joy that yet in all my life I find men still true to me. I have honor, as deploy they their vile conquest. Brutus’ tongue hath reached an end; mine eyes tired, seeing this wrath; my bones would rest, having worked to attain this hour. Strato, hold my sword. ‘Twill foretell a man of respect; allow you to gain more honor. Your hand, good Strato, farewell. Turn as I run to it. Caesar, be still. I killed not thee with half so good a will.

Brutus dies. Antony, Octavius, Messala, Lucilius and the army enter.

MESSALAStrato, where is thy master?

STRATOFree from the bondage you are in, Messala. Brutus only overcame himself and no man else hath honor by his death.

MESSALAHow died my master, Strato?

STRATOI held the sword, and he did run on it.

ANTONYThis was the noblest Roman of them all. All the conspirators save only he did that they did in envy of great Caesar. He only in a general honest thought and common good to all made one of them. His life was gentle and the elements so mixed in him that nature might stand up and say to all the world “This was a man.”