julius caesar assassination essay

The Assassination of Julius Caesar

Introduction.

Rome is one of the most important and ancient historical landmarks in European history. The contemporary cultural, political, and philosophic tradition was built on the basis of old Roman practice and theory. Nowadays, it is still held in high regard, although few people concern themselves with the full history of the Roman civilization. Among its many political figures and thought leaders, none are as renowned as Julius Caesar. Being a military general during the time of the Roman Republic, the man has amassed great power and made a long-lasting impression in history. The assassination of general Julius Caesar is one of the most notable and well-known events in the history of the Roman Republic. Familiar even to people uninterested in ancient history, the murder has had a significant impact on the course of Roman development and the subsequent rule of violence on leadership in the country. There are a number of complex reasons as to why the event occurred, stemming from the economic, political, and social state of the time. It is generally believed that a group of senators were unhappy with the policies the man proposed and the power he was quickly garnering in a republican country. The conspirators saw the murder as the only available and effective solution to prevent leadership stagnation and accomplish their respective goals. This essay aims to examine Caesar’s rise to power, his political influence and efforts while in the position, and the overall reasons for his assassination. The paper works under the assumption that his murder was an inevitable part of Roman history and the senators had valid reasons for plotting against him.

Why Caesar was Killed

Caesar’s rise to power.

Julius Caesar was a Roman General and a political figure that played a large role in the development and growth of the Roman republic. Emerging as a prominent leader during the Gallic Wars, he has amassed considerable power and influence in Rome (Gill). Along with two other political figures, Pompey and Marcus Licinius Crassus, he was a part of the First Triumvirate, an alliance formed between the three to amass more political power and influence (Gill). Caesar was extremely popular among people and the middle class, soon garnering a large support base that his vision on the reformation of the country. His political power, however, led to the beginning of a Civil War, from which he emerged victoriously. Building political power and influence, Caesar has become a prominent figure in Roman leadership. Becoming a dictator, he has had the opportunity to enact his personal vision upon Rome with the assistance of the senate. Being a controversial figure, he amassed both the love of his supporters and the vitriol of his enemies. Having forgiven many of his enemies and political opponents, he has gathered an unstable support base among the other influential elites of Rome (Gill). While some were undoubtedly grateful to the man, many still hold onto the grudges of their defeat and saw Caesar’s rule as a threat or a hindrance (Suet. Div. Jul. 67). The common folk, on the other hand, were largely supportive of his position and saw him as a good leader. By introducing legislation favorable to the lower classes, Caesar garnered further support. There are a number of accounts stating that the people wanted to profess him their kind, but Caesar always refused, being content in his role as a dictator.

Caesar’s Position

Serving as a Roman dictator, Julius Caesar has had an immense political and economic influence on the course of Rome’s development. After the end of the Civil War, many poor people were in large debt, suffering from extortionate interest rates. As a means of countermeasure, Caesar found a balance between the needs of the public and the borrowers, managing to alleviate debt by at least a fourth. His domestic policy also tackled unemployment by offering poor people to work in Rome’s colonies overseas. Although possessing a number of virtuous qualities and being adored by common folk, the man was flawed in many other aspects. As noted by Suetonius, a historian of the period, Caesar used his position to obtain excessive honors, named himself a dictator for life without the need for an election, and used censorship to silence the opposition (Suet. Div. Jul. 76). He was revered as a supreme leader of Rome, despite never officially being one, having statues and works of architecture dedicated to him. Caesar also abused his power by appointing people in high-ranking positions at his personal discretion (Suet. Div. Jul. 76). He chose magistrates for multiple years, disregarding the established rules and procedures. Many of his close associates were given high-ranking or important government positions on the basis of association. Suetonius also recounts how the man speaks about the political status of the Roman Republic (Suet. Div. Jul. 77). Caesar considered himself to be a figure of absolute authority, being able to layout laws and govern the country. Voicing his approval of Sulla’s previous dictatorship, he positions himself above the long-standing democratic tradition of the Roman Republic.

Conspirator’s Perspective

Senate, as a governing institution of the Roman Republic, is a long-established and well-respected tradition. Being salvaged even after the fall of the Roman monarchy, the Senate was able to secure its position as the most powerful apparatus of democratic rule. The institution was chiefly responsible for passing advisory decrees to the magistrate, which were then followed similarly to actual laws. With Caesar’s Growth in prominence, the role of the senate became less significant, as the man himself proclaimed legislation. Many individual senators saw Caesar’s position in Rome as a threat to democracy. The man’s attitude towards the traditions of democracy and the practice of appointing people to important positions was unacceptable for many. The main motivations of the conspirators were wildly different, but they have agreed that Caesar’s upcoming departure for a campaign against Parthians, would greatly undermine their efforts and agreed to assassinate Caesar three days before it. A handful of people were involved in the first few stages of the conspiracy. Decimus Brutus, Gaius Cassius, and Marcus Brutus played the role of main instigators. Nicolaus of Damascus notes that all of the conspirators were on Pompey’s side during the preceding Civil War, but were subsequently pardoned by Caesar and welcomed to the senate (Nicolaus Dam. 59). Some of the men sought revenge for the civil war or the position of the dictator themselves, others were unhappy with the idea of autocratic rule (Nicolaus Dam. 60). A number of specific events also served to turn the conspirators onto Caesar. His general disrespect towards the Senate and its members turned many of his allies away and motivated his detractors. One of the prime and most egregious examples of this occurred during the meeting before the temple of Venus Genitrix. The whole senate body was gathered to present him with a number of decrees, however, Caesar did not rise up to greet them, instead of remaining in a sitting position (Suet. Div. Jul. 78). By disrespecting the officials of the senate, Caesar has openly shown his disposition towards them. While accounts of the event vary, the fact of him remaining seated is a constant.

Important to mention is another act of contempt performed by the dictator. Suetonius describes an occurrence when a laurel with a white band was placed upon the head of Caesar’s statue. Two senators have ordered to remove the laurel and send the man responsible to prison. Caesar, however, was displeased with the actions of two men, reprimanding them very harshly. Contended reasoning behind his actions is largely speculated upon, and there are two proposed theories. The first one is that the dictator suspected senators of placing the laurel on the statue themselves as an act of defamation. The over one is that their actions did not allow Caesar to address the issue himself and remove the laurel. Overall, the relationship between Julius Caesar and some of the senators was strained, leading them to be persuaded into assassinating him.

In conclusion, the assassination of Julius Caesar was a culmination of a number of events and the result of long-building tension. Gaining his renowned status after the Civil War, the man had a combination of political and military prowess to assist in the endeavor. Managing to gather a support base of old allies and former enemies, Caesar has become the permanent Roman dictator. With his unprecedented rise to power, Caesar has gained the ability to influence the domestic policy of the Roman Republic while limiting the input of democratic tools of government. Finding support among common people, he has solidified his position as a dictator and appointed individuals close to him in high-ranking positions of power. The conspirators against his rule saw Caesar’s influence as a threat to democracy as well as a personal obstacle to political development. Many of the participants held grudges against the man, finding his prior actions during the time of the Civil War to be personally humiliating. The escalation of the conflict was inevitable, as Caesar failed to see the issue in appointing former enemies in positions of close proximity, and dismissed the concerns of his support base.

Works Cited

Gill, N.S. The Rise and Fall of Julius Caesar’s Political Life . 2019, Web.

Nicolaus of Damascus, Life of Augustus.  Suetonius, Life of Caesar , 76-79

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Julius Caesar

By: History.com Editors

Updated: September 22, 2023 | Original: October 27, 2009

Julius Caesar was a renowned general, politician and scholar in  ancient Rome who conquered the vast region of Gaul and helped initiate the end of the Roman Republic when he became dictator of the Roman Empire. Despite his brilliant military prowess, his political skills and his popularity with Rome’s lower- and middle-class, his rule was cut short when opponents—threatened by his rising power—brutally assassinated him.

Early Life of Gaius Julius Caesar

Gaius Julius Caesar was born on or around July 13, 100 B.C., to his father, also named Gaius Julius Caesar, and his mother Aurelia Cotta. He was also the nephew of the famous Roman general Gaius Marius.

Caesar traced his bloodline to the origins of Rome and claimed to be a descendant of the goddess Venus through the Trojan prince Aeneas and his son Iulus. Despite his allegedly noble heritage, however, Caesar’s family was not wealthy or particularly influential in Roman politics.

Did you know? Unlike in the Shakespeare play, Caesar's last words were not "Et tu, Brute?" ("And you, Brutus?"). Instead they were reported as "You, too, my child?"

After his father died suddenly in 85 B.C., Caesar became head of his family at age 16—right in the middle of a civil war between his uncle Marius and the Roman ruler Lucius Cornelius Sulla. In 84 B.C., he married Cornelia, the daughter of an ally of Marius. Caesar and Cornelia had one child, a daughter named Julia.

In 82 B.C., Sulla won the civil war and ordered Caesar to divorce Cornelia. Caesar refused and went into hiding. His family intervened and convinced Sulla to spare Caesar’s life; however, Sulla stripped Caesar of his inheritance.

Despite the reprieve, Caesar left Rome, joined the army and earned the prestigious Civic Crown for his courage at the Siege of Mytilene in 80 B.C. After Sulla’s death in 78 B.C., Caesar returned to Rome and became a successful prosecutor widely known for his oratory skills.

Pirates Capture Caesar

In 75 B.C., as he crossed the Aegean Sea in route to Rhodes to study philosophy and oratory, murderous pirates captured Caesar. Reportedly, Caesar acted more like a domineering leader with the pirates than their captive.

After his ransom was paid, the pirates let him go. But Caesar hired a private fleet to hunt them down and had the pirates crucified for their crimes .

Ancient Empires

Watch the three-episode documentary event, Ancient Empires . Available to stream now.

Political Rise

Caesar soon began his political career in earnest. He became military tribune and then quaestor of a Roman province in 69 B.C., the same year his wife Cornelia died. In 67 B.C., he married Pompeia, a granddaughter of Sulla and relative of Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus (Pompey the Great), with whom he formed an important alliance.

In 65 B.C., Caesar became aedile—an important Roman magistrate—and produced lavish games in the Circus Maximus which endeared him to the public but threw him heavily into debt. Two years later, he was elected Pontifex Maximus.

Caesar divorced Pompeia in 62 B.C. after a politician incited a major scandal by disguising himself as a woman and making his way into a sacred women’s festival hosted by Pompeia.

The First Triumvirate

One year later, Caesar became governor of Spain. A series of successful military and political maneuvers, along with the support of Pompey and Marcus Licinius Crassus (known as the richest man in Rome), helped Caesar get elected as senior Roman consul in 59 B.C.

Caesar, Crassus and Pompey soon formed an informal alliance (strengthened by the marriage of Caesar’s daughter Julia to Pompey) known as the First Triumvirate. The union terrified the Roman Senate who knew that a partnership between three such powerful men would prove unstoppable. They were right, and the triumvirate soon controlled Rome.

Caesar in Gaul

Caesar was appointed governor of the vast region of Gaul (north-central Europe) in 58 B.C., where he commanded a large army. During the subsequent Gallic Wars, Caesar conducted a series of brilliant campaigns to conquer and stabilize the region, earning a reputation as a formidable and ruthless military leader. 

Caesar built a bridge across the Rhine River into Germanic territories and crossed the English Channel into Britain. But his great successes in the region caused Pompey to resent him and complicated the already-strained relationship between Pompey and Crassus.

As Caesar conquered Gaul, the political situation in Rome became increasingly volatile, with Pompey its lone consul. After the deaths of Pompey’s wife (and Caesar’s daughter) Julia in 54 B.C. and Crassus in 53 B.C., Pompey aligned with Caesar’s opponents and ordered him to give up his army and return to Rome. 

Caesar refused and, in a bold and decisive maneuver, directed his army to cross the Rubicon River into Italy, triggering a civil war between his supporters and those of Pompey. Caesar and his armies pursued Pompey to Spain, Greece and, finally, Egypt.

Julius Caesar and Cleopatra

Hoping to prevent Caesar from invading Egypt, the child pharaoh Ptolemy VIII had Pompey killed on September 28, 48 B.C. When Caesar entered Egypt, Ptolemy gifted him Pompey’s severed head.

Caesar soon found himself in the middle of a civil war between Ptolemy and his Egyptian co-regent  Cleopatra . Caesar became her lover and partnered with her to overthrow Ptolemy and make her ruler of Egypt. The pair never married but their long-term affair produced a son, Ptolemy XV Caesar, known as Caesarion.

Dictatorship

Caesar spent the next few years wiping out his enemies and what remained of Pompey’s supporters in the Middle East, Africa and Spain. 

In 46 B.C. he was made dictator of Rome for ten years, outraging his political opponents and setting the stage for the eventual end of the Roman Republic. Caesar began making several drastic reforms to benefit Rome’s lower- and middle class, including:

• regulating the distribution of subsidized grain
• increasing the size of the Senate to represent more people
• reducing government debt
• supporting military veterans
• granting Roman citizenship to people in Rome's far-flung territories
• reforming the Roman tax codes
• creating the Julian calendar

Julius Caesar Quotes

Many people still consider Caesar a great leader with keen insights into human nature. Over the centuries, many of his words have become famous quotes, such as:

• “I came, I saw, I conquered.”
• “Caesar’s wife must be above suspicion.”
• “The die has been cast.”
• “If I fail, it is only because I have too much pride and ambition.”
• “In the end, it is impossible to become what others believe you are.”
• “As a rule, men worry more about what they can’t see than about what they can.”
• “No one is so brave that he is not disturbed by something unexpected.”
• “The evil that men do lives after them; the good is oft interred with their bones.”
• “There are no tricks in plain and simple faith.”
• “Which death is preferable to every other? The unexpected.”

Assassination

Caesar declared himself dictator for life in 44 B.C. However, his crusade for absolute power didn’t go over well with many Roman politicians. Fearing he would become king, a group of senators conspired to end his life.

On the Ides of March (March 15, 44 B.C.), the senators, led by Gaius Cassius Longinus,  Decimus Junius Brutus Albinus  and Marcus Junius Brutus , stabbed Caesar 23 times, ending both his reign and his life as he fell bleeding onto the Senate floor at the feet of a statue of Pompey .

Caesar’s assassination  at age 55 made him a martyr and incited a cycle of civil wars resulting in the downfall of the Roman Republic and the rise to power of his grandnephew and heir Gaius Octavius (Octavian)—later known as Augustus Caesar —to emperor of the Roman Empire. 

Play: 'The Tragedy of Julius Caesar'

In 1599, William Shakespeare wrote The Tragedy of Julius Caesar , a play based on Caesar’s life. Set in 44 B.C., it tells the story of a Roman politician named Brutus who plots with others to assassinate Caesar. It also portrays Caesar’s brutal murder and the aftermath.

The play is thought to have made its debut in 1599 at the Globe Theater in London and continues to mesmerize audiences to this day, inspiring songs, novels, films, television shows and even comedy acts. It has also provided many well-known quotes—attributed to Shakespeare, not Caesar— including:

• “Et tu, Brute?”
• “Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears.”
• “The fault dear Brutus, is not in our stars but in ourselves.”
• “Beware the Ides of March.”
• “Death, a necessary end, will come when it will come.”

A Timeline of the Life of Julius Caesar. San Joseʹ State University. Julius Caesar. Ancient History Encyclopedia. The Reader’s Companion to Military History. Edited by Robert Cowley and Geoffrey Parker. Houghton Mifflin Books . 

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William Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” Essay

Introduction, plot development, works cited.

Julius Caesar is probably one of the most referenced works by Shakespeare; it depicts actualities drawn upon the events in the Roman Empire. According to Wyke (4), the play explores the dramatic structure of Julius Caesar’s ambition to take to the throne of the Roman Empire. The drama introduces Julius Caesar as a man with unyielding ambition to the throne, having fought for the good of the nation. Although regarded by many pundits as a hero, Julius Caesar is equally facing opposition to ascend to Roman leadership, and there is a hatched conspiracy to assassinate him (Taylor 301). Tragic events permeate the plot and literary scholars refer to Julius Caesar as a tragedy itself.

After a successful war that saw the killing of Pompey, Caesar returns to Rome to proclaim his Kingship. There is pure irony as a community projects itself to have more regard for an individual than a nation. The culminating events are tense; the nation is appalled, and something has to be done to neutralize the situation. Caesar is a national figure although there is clear polarization in the senate to stop his ascendancy. Overall, Caesar seems to have greater opportunities of ascending to Kinship (Wyke 5).

Despite great opportunity that Caesar wields, Cassius is championing forces to halt Caesar’s ascendancy. Cassius aligns his team and convinces Brutus to be part of this plot. The opposition clout against Caesar thinks he will dominate Rome and subsequently institute tyranny under his watch. Brutus is fronted as the best candidate to face off with Caesar in a duel. Brutus is probably aware of the personal sacrifices and the patriotic commitments that Caesar has made to Rome. Brutus ignores calls to challenge Caesar, and affirms that the nation is greater that all individuals (Taylor 303). The conspirators plot to assassinate Caesar was taken aback by Brutus refusal to challenge Caesar. In the end, Caesar is killed thrashing the nation into panic.

Antony steals an opportunity to make a strong statement in a keynote speech during Caesar’s burial. He, particularly, registers his disgust to the traitors for the wrongs they have done both to Caesar and to the nation. His speech, according to Taylor (305), arouses the nation, making the citizens come out to the streets to protest Caesar’s killing. Antony’s remarks further point a finger at Brutus and Cassius who are jointly suspected to have a hand in the King’s assassination (Taylor 304).

Antony, nonetheless, betrays Brutus and Cassius who confide in him to keep their plot secret. Consequently, Brutus and Cassius flee the city while Antony gets the support of Octavius and Lepidus. Brutus and Cassius decide not to go back to Rome for there lays the wrath of the citizens in their actions. However, despite the title of the play, Brutus and Cassius suffice as the tragic characters due to their conspiracy for personal gains that plunge the country into abject civil war and utter desperation.

Julius Caesar is a replica of what happened in the Roman Empire. It is a confirmation of Shakespeare’s tendency to revise history through drama. In addition, it shows how conspiracy plays out in politics, and how death is the reward of all human ills. Brutus and Cassius commit suicide when they are aware that they can no longer subdue Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus whose firm grip on power is unwavering. Antony seems to have a brighter future in the yet to be established Rome. Despite its historic overtones, Julius Caesar is a tragedy of grand proportions.

Taylor, Myron. “Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar and the Irony of History.” Shakespeare Quarterly 24.3 (1973): 301–308. Print.

Wyke, Maria. Julius Caesar in western culture . Oxford, England: Blackwell, 2006. Print.

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Bibliography

IvyPanda . "William Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar"." October 31, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/william-shakespeares-julius-caesar/.

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Julius Caesar - Essay Examples And Topic Ideas For Free

Julius Caesar was a Roman general, statesman, and notable author of Latin prose who played a critical role in the events leading to the demise of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire. Essays on Julius Caesar might explore his military campaigns, political strategies, or contributions to Roman literature. Other discussions might delve into his controversial actions, his relationships with other significant figures of his time, or the events leading to his assassination and its aftermath. An exploration of his legacy and portrayal in subsequent Roman, medieval, and modern histories or a comparison with other historical or contemporary political leaders might also provide insight into his lasting influence. We’ve gathered an extensive assortment of free essay samples on the topic of Julius Caesar you can find at PapersOwl Website. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

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Book Review “Cleopatra: a Life”

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Julius Caesar was born on July 13, 100 BC. He was a controversial figure of ancient Rome. A military general and a Roman politician, he changed the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire. Julius Caesar greatly changed Rome's economy and significantly enlarged Rome's territories, which made the Roman Empire one of the largest in history. Julius Caesar was a very talented individual who had mastered different areas of knowledge, along with being very popular with the common people of Rome. […]

Cleopatra the Seventh Queen of the Nile

Arguably one of the most famous Egyptian queens, Cleopatra was a femme-fatale and a powerful women. The Egyptian queen was a very influential political leader, she used her wit and ambition to achieve many goals for her country. Although lacking in external beauty, Cleopatra's mind was gorgeously fascinating and she became a woman known for her intelligence and appeal. She was a very influential woman, a great leader for Egypt and held a much stronger monarch than any of the […]

Julius Caesar Personality Biography

As a person who was cherished but also resented by many, Julius Caesar left a valuable impression on those during his lifetime, and even to this day. Although Caesar was a skillful leader who helped extend the Roman Republic, in reality, he was a greedy, immoral man who used the factors of manipulation in order to bring himself to success. Born on July 12, 100 BC, Julius Caesar’s birth was said to have “marked the start of a new era” […]

The Journey of Julius Caesar Written by Suetonius

Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus, Lives of the Caesars is an important account of the journey of Julius Caesar written by Suetonius. In this selection, it is shown how Caesar came to power and the problems he encountered along the way. The reader can also see the distaste that the citizens and the Senate had for him, eventually leading to his assassination. Suetonius explains how the actions of Caesar led to changes in the governing of Rome and gives insight on his […]

Two Julius Caesar Speaches

Losing a loved one no matter the relation is always rough on a person. Whether be a grandparent, or a close friend, their absence affects us in some way. Death is no new concept and has been something philosophers have pondered since the beginning of time and many have created their own theories about what happens after death to coupe with trauma. But in the end its how we coupe with this sudden loss that truly tests our morals. All […]

Julius Caesar in Shakespeare’s Play

William Shakespeare's Julius Caesar as a world-renowned play gains tremendous analysis at various perspectives, such as characters of Caesar, plot of this play, etc.; however, the fake democracy in this play and Shakespeare's satire of it seem to be a vacancy of demonstration. Julius Caesar is a key figure in the transition from Roman Republic to the imperial period of Roma, and in this transition the form of democracy transfers from by lot and election to totally by election. In […]

Cleopatra and her Position in Society

Cleopatra's actions during her lifetime were influenced by her position as a royal woman ruler as well as her position in the Egyptian society. She accepted her position as "the Other" in ancient society to further embrace the role of the exotic Greco-Roman pharaoh using her beauty and seduction methods as a tool in order to stay in control of the throne. Cleopatra and the story of her early life mainly comes from the stories and poems of Greco-Roman scholars, […]

The Role of Julius Caesar in the History

Gaius Julius Caesar was a politically adept and popular military leader of the Roman Republic. (North 23) Best known as Julius Caesar, he critically participated in transforming the Roman republic to what became known as the Roman Empire by expanding its geographic reach and establishing its imperial leadership system . North (25) narrates that Caesar led Army troops across the river Rubicon and through successful battles. At the same time Pompey, a former Roman Kingdom military and political leader was […]

William Shakespeare about the Overthrow of Julius Caesar

Speeches are made for many reasons, the main is to persuade an audience. The Tragedy of Julius Caesar, written by William Shakespeare, is a play about the overthrow of Julius Caesar by his conspirators. Following the death of Caesar, Mark Antonius, Caesars prodigee, delivers a very persuasive speech in the most indirect way. Antony's tone, his use of credibility, and rhetorical questions during his speech helped build his reliability with the Romans. Antony follows an ironic tone throughout his speech. […]

The Death of Julius Caesar

Recently seeing Julius Caesar, directed by Lance Marsh, many strong moments stood out to me. One particular moment stayed with me, it made me saddened for the character at hand and made me curious as to what he would do with this pivotal moment. Julius Caesar (played by Austin Wyatt) is reigning over this land, and some being to conspire against him. His right hand man, Brutus (played by Blayne Childers), is one main conspirator against Caesar. Caesar is eventually […]

Brutus’s Speech Analysis in Julius Caesar: Persuasion and Argumentation

Introduction: The Power of Persuasive Speeches Persuasive speeches are quite a tool in order to sway the opinion of an uneducated individual. These speeches must have the power to reform a certain community’s opinion on such a topic that the giver of the speech presents. This form of essay writing follows a strict guideline that must be effective yet, at the same time, subtle in design and composition. They are formed using three such parts of any fundamental argument: the […]

Final: Cleopatra

In Act IV of William Shakespeare's tragedy Antony and Cleopatra, Cleopatra remarks, "All strange and terrible events are welcome, but comforts we despise" ("Cleopatra VII"). Herein lies the life of Cleopatra one fraught with tremendous challenges and marred by tragedy. Born in 69 B.C., Cleopatra VII was the daughter of King Ptolemy XII (Jones). At the age of eighteen, Cleopatra assumed the Egyptian throne (Jones). She would be the last Ptolemy and the last pharaoh to ever rule over Egypt. […]

One of Rome’s Greatest Leaders

Julius Caesar was born on the July 12, 100 BC. His Father was too named Julius Caesar. His father was a Praetor who governed the province of Asia. His mother was named Aurelia Cotta was of noble family. Both his father and his mother help a Popular ideology of Rome. This favored democratization of government and also more rights for the lower class. Julius Caesar was a politically adept and popular leader of the Roman Republic who significantly transformed what […]

Why did Brutus Betray Julius: Analyzing the Motives

Introduction Brutus and Mark had unalike motives during their lecture to the town. Brutus made the people accept being helped by the crazy plotters for killing Julius. Mark is a comrade to Julius by telling Brutus and the plotters what they actually are: ruthless assassins who execute Julius from distress and insecurity and never for Rome. Mark wants to stir up people to act out and end the swindlers. Brutus' words are gibberish and pathetic from start to end. Brutus's […]

Examples of Power Corrupting Leaders: from Caesar to Modern Times

Julius Caesar: A Brilliant Strategist with Unchecked Ambitions Julius Caesar defeated many to earn more power. He killed thousands without care and was physically strong and musically inclined. He was a brilliant man who was great at propaganda. His people did not like Caesar because of his overuse of power. Cesar wrote about his many war experiences. These writings were impersonal and purely factual. The areas he covered were exceedingly specific and puzzled historians about why he chose these events […]

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How To Write An Essay On Julius Caesar

Introduction to julius caesar as a historical and literary figure.

When writing an essay on Julius Caesar, it is essential to clarify whether you are focusing on the historical figure of Julius Caesar or the titular character in William Shakespeare’s play. If your essay is about the historical Roman general and statesman, begin by outlining his significance in Roman history, his political and military achievements, and his impact on the course of the Roman Empire. Alternatively, if your essay centers on Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar," introduce the play as a pivotal work of literature that explores themes of power, betrayal, and political intrigue. Your introduction should provide a brief overview of the key aspects of Julius Caesar's life or the main themes of the play, setting the stage for deeper analysis.

Analyzing Julius Caesar’s Influence and Leadership

In the body of your essay, delve into the details of Julius Caesar’s influence and leadership. If focusing on the historical figure, discuss his military campaigns, such as the conquest of Gaul, his role in the Roman Civil War, and his central part in the transformation of the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire. Explore his political strategies, reforms, and the reasons behind his assassination. For an essay on Shakespeare's play, analyze Caesar’s character, the perception of his ambition and power by other characters, and the play’s depiction of his assassination. Discuss how Caesar's character and his assassination contribute to the themes and messages of the play.

Examining the Impact and Legacy of Julius Caesar

The next part of your essay should examine the impact and legacy of Julius Caesar. In a historical context, discuss how Caesar’s actions and policies influenced the structure of the Roman Empire and its subsequent rulers. Comment on how his life and death marked a turning point in Roman history. In a literary context, reflect on how Shakespeare’s portrayal of Caesar has influenced perceptions of his character throughout history. Discuss the play's enduring relevance, its impact on literature, and how its themes resonate with contemporary issues of power and morality.

Concluding Thoughts on Julius Caesar

Conclude your essay by summarizing the main points of your analysis and offering a perspective on the significance of Julius Caesar in history or literature. Reflect on the lessons that can be learned from his life and leadership, or the themes and questions raised by Shakespeare’s play. Your conclusion should not only encapsulate your findings but also invite further contemplation on the enduring influence of Julius Caesar, whether as a historical figure who shaped the course of Western history or as a character in one of Shakespeare’s most studied plays.

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Who Assassinated Julius Caesar?

J ulius Caesar, one of the most famous historical figures, was assassinated by a group of senators on the Ides of March (15th March) of 44 BC. The senators, led by Marcus Junius Brutus and Gaius Cassius Longinus, feared Caesar’s absolute power and the return of the monarchy. Believing they were saving the Roman Republic , the conspirators attacked Caesar with their daggers, with Brutus dealing the first blow. Instead, Caesar’s murder plunged Rome into two bloody civil wars, toppling down the Republic and ushering in the Roman Empire .

Julius Caesar was Assassinated in the Senatorial Conspiracy

In early 44 BC, Julius Caesar was the most powerful man in Rome. Fresh of his victory at Munda , where he eliminated the last military opposition, Caesar declared himself a dictator for life. Such a move, however, caused alarm in the Senate of Rome. For centuries, Rome prided itself on being a Republic, and now Caesar threatened to topple down traditional values by bringing back the hated monarchy. The Senate feared losing power and influence, with one man taking complete control over the Roman world . The conspirators believed that by eliminating Caesar, they could save the Roman Republic from tyranny.

Thus, on March 15th, 44 BC – the infamous “Ides of March”, the senators assassinated Julius Caesar , stabbing him repeatedly – 32 times – with their daggers. The brutal and symbolic act removed the tyrant, saving the Republic. Or so the assailants believed.

Brutus Made a First Blow

One of the conspiracy leaders was Marcus Junius Brutus, who, despite being an ally of Pompey during the Civil War, was pardoned by Caesar and became his staunch ally and protégé. Brutus, himself a descendant of an illustrious founder of the Roman Republic (also named Brutus), feared Caesar’s growing power. Thus, when Caesar’s enemies approached the young man, Brutus joined the senatorial conspiracy. According to the sources, Brutus was the first to attack Caesar during the Senate meeting. 

This act of betrayal was later immortalized in a famous phrase, “Et tu, Brute?” by William Shakespeare in his play “Julius Caesar.” However, Caesar probably expressed his disbelief in Greek: “ And you, my son?”

Longinus Was Also Caesar’s Former Ally

The second leader of the conspiracy was also Caesar’s former ally. Gaius Cassius Longinus was a senator with a storied military career who joined Crassus’ ill-fated expedition against Parthia. Longinus not only managed to bring the remnants of the legions to the Roman territory. He also repelled the Parthia ’s attacks on Syria, saving the eastern province. When civil war erupted in 49 BC, Cassius Longinus sided with Pompey the Great , attacking and defeating Caesar’s navy. However, like in Brutus’ case, Julius Caesar pardoned Longinus after the Battle of Pharsalus, making his enemy a close ally. 

Longinus, too, feared Caesar’s accumulation of power, and as a defender of traditional values, he was willing to sacrifice friendship to save the Republic. He became “the moving spirit” in the plot against Caesar and the principal advocate of tyrannicide. On the Ides of March , Cassius was one of the leading assassins, striking Caesar in the chest.

The Assassins Met a Violent End

With Caesar’s body lying cold on the Senate floor, the assassins – who styled themselves “Liberators” – celebrated, believing that they saved the Republic. The famed “EID MAR” denarius proudly proclaims a tyrant’s assassination and praises the saviors of the Republic. The reality, however, was different. The “EID MAR” coin was minted to pay the troops, the Liberators badly needed. Caesar’s assassination deeply divided the Roman people. In addition, Mark Antony , whom the conspirators spared, allied with Lepidus and Octavian. Brutus and Longinus left for the eastern provinces, where they amassed the army.

Caesar’s assassination, intended to save the Republic, sparked another civil war, which ended with defeat at the Battle of Phillipi . Brutus’ and Longinus’ suicide brought an end to the Liberator’s cause. And the fall of the Roman Republic.

Julius Caesar’s Assassination Led to the Roman Empire

The defeat of the Liberators avenged Caesar’s murder, but it did not save the Republic. Soon, another conflict broke out between former Caesar’s general and friend, Mark Antony and Caesar’s nephew and adopted son, Octavian. The bloody Civil War ended after Octavian’s navy, led by his friend Agrippa , defeated the combined Roman-Egyptian fleet at Actium in 31 BC. The subsequent suicide of Antony and Cleopatra removed all opposition, leaving Octavian the sole master of the Roman world.

A few years later, in 27 BC, Octavian became Augustus, the first emperor of Rome . The Roman Republic ceased to exist, replaced by the very thing the Liberators tried to prevent – a monarchy. Caesar’s assassination backfired, only delaying the inevitable – the birth of the Roman Empire and the first imperial dynasty.

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Essays on Julius Caesar

Prompt examples for julius caesar essays, the character of julius caesar.

Examine the character of Julius Caesar in Shakespeare's play. Analyze his ambitions, strengths, and weaknesses. Discuss how his actions and decisions contribute to the play's central conflicts and themes.

The Tragic Hero in Julius Caesar

Explore the concept of the tragic hero as it applies to a character in the play. Identify the tragic hero and discuss the traits that make them fit this archetype. Analyze their downfall and its significance in the story.

The Role of Brutus

Discuss the character of Brutus and his role in the conspiracy against Caesar. Analyze his motivations, moral dilemmas, and his ultimate decision to join the conspiracy. Explore how Brutus's actions impact the unfolding of events.

The Power Struggle in Julius Caesar

Examine the theme of power and political ambition in the play. Discuss how characters like Caesar, Brutus, Cassius, and Mark Antony vie for power. Analyze the consequences of their actions and the political turmoil that ensues.

The Role of Fate in Julius Caesar

Explore the theme of fate and prophecy in the play. Discuss how omens and prophecies shape the characters' decisions and the outcome of events. Analyze whether the characters' fates were predetermined or if they had free will.

The Use of Rhetoric in the Funeral Speeches

Analyze the famous funeral speeches delivered by Brutus and Mark Antony. Discuss their use of rhetoric to sway the crowd's opinion. Examine the persuasive techniques, appeals to emotion, and their overall effectiveness in achieving their goals.

The Theme of Betrayal in Julius Caesar

Discuss the theme of betrayal and loyalty in the play. Examine how characters betray one another, whether it's through conspiracy, manipulation, or deceit. Analyze the consequences of these betrayals.

The Gender Roles in Julius Caesar

Examine the portrayal of gender roles in the play. Discuss the limited roles and agency of female characters like Calpurnia and Portia. Analyze how masculinity and femininity are depicted and whether they influence the characters' actions.

The Historical Accuracy of Julius Caesar

Discuss the historical accuracy of Shakespeare's portrayal of Julius Caesar and the events surrounding his assassination. Analyze how Shakespeare adapted historical events for dramatic purposes and the potential impact on the audience's perception of history.

The Legacy of Julius Caesar

Explore the lasting impact of Julius Caesar on literature, politics, and culture. Discuss how the character and events of the play have influenced subsequent works and historical interpretations.

Hook Examples for "Julius Caesar" Essays

Anecdotal hook.

"As I delved into the political intrigue and tragic consequences of betrayal in 'Julius Caesar,' I couldn't help but reflect on the timeless themes of ambition, loyalty, and the perils of unchecked power."

Rhetorical Question Hook

"What drives individuals to conspire against a leader, and what are the consequences of their actions? William Shakespeare's 'Julius Caesar' prompts us to explore the complexities of power and ambition."

Startling Quote Hook

"'Beware the ides of March.' These words of warning in the play's opening act set the stage for a tale of betrayal and tragedy. 'Julius Caesar' serves as a cautionary tale for leaders and societies."

Historical Hook

"Set in ancient Rome during a time of political upheaval, 'Julius Caesar' offers insights into the dynamics of power and governance in the Roman Republic. Exploring this historical context adds depth to the narrative."

Narrative Hook

"Step into the world of conspiracy, ambition, and the struggle for control as you follow the tragic fates of Caesar, Brutus, and Cassius. This narrative captures the essence of Shakespearean drama."

Character Analysis Hook

"Delve into the complex characters of 'Julius Caesar,' from the charismatic Caesar himself to the conflicted Brutus. Analyzing their motivations and flaws adds depth to the narrative."

Moral Dilemma Hook

"What moral dilemmas do the characters face in 'Julius Caesar,' and how do these dilemmas resonate with contemporary ethical questions? Exploring the play's ethical dimensions prompts reflection on our own choices."

Political Intrigue Hook

"How does 'Julius Caesar' depict the complexities of political intrigue and manipulation? Delving into the play's political themes sheds light on the strategies and consequences of political actions."

Tragic Consequences Hook

"What are the tragic consequences of conspiring against a leader, and how do they ripple through society? Examining the play's impact on characters and the state offers valuable insights."

Shakespearean Legacy Hook

"How does 'Julius Caesar' contribute to William Shakespeare's enduring literary legacy? Exploring the play's place in Shakespearean drama reveals its significance in literature and theater."

Brutus and Mark Antony: Speech Analysis

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Brutus as a Tragic Hero Essay

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Julius Caesar's Rise to Power and Dictatorship

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12 July 100 BC

March 15, 44 BC

Julius Caesar, in full Gaius Julius Caesar, was a politician and general of the late Roman republic. Caesar led the Roman armies to conquer the vast region of Gaul (58–50 BC) and to won in the civil war of 49–45 BC. Caesar played a decisive role in the events that led to the demise of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire.

Caesar began his career in politics as a prosecuting advocate and started to study philosophy in Rhodes. In 74 BC, Mithradates VI Eupator, king of Pontus, had declared war on Rome and Caesar defeated him with a private army. Julius Caesar’s power and prestige started to grew.

In 61 to 60 BC, Caesar served as governor of the Roman province of Spain. Soon, in 59 BC, Caesar got elected as senior Roman consul. The First Triumvirate was an informal alliance formed by Caesar, Crassus and Pompey, that soon controlled Rome. Caesar became a governor of the vast region of Gaul in 58 BC. During the subsequent Gallic Wars, Caesar earned a reputation as a formidable and ruthless military leader.

Caesar was master of Rome and made himself consul and dictator. He used his power to carry out drastic reforms to benefit Rome’s lower and middle class. Caesar also resurrected two city-states, Carthage and Corinth. Caesar declared himself dictator for life in 44 B.C.

His success and ambition alienated strongly republican senators. Soon, a group of senators, led by Cassius and Brutus, assassinated Caesar on the Ides of March 44 BC.

Caesar changed the course of the history of the Greco-Roman world decisively and irreversibly. He became the first Roman figure to be deified. The Senate gave him the title "The Divine Julius."

"Veni, vidi, vici. (I came, I saw, I conquered.)" "In the end, it is impossible not to become what others believe you are." "The greatest enemy will hide in the last place you would ever look."

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‘Brutal and genocidal’: Dissecting Julius Caesar to warn us about Trump and other strongmen

A bbc documentary about the roman dictator shows how his excessive ambition for power ultimately overthrew a republican system. the film also draws parallels between him and current forms of populism.

The BBC documentary Julius Caesar: The Making of a Dictator is centered around the man who liquidated the Roman Republic. Caesar has enjoyed historical prestige ever since the second century AD, when Plutarch put him at the level of Alexander the Great in Parallel Lives , his series of biographies. Centuries later, through Shakespeare and Hollywood, the Roman general and statesman became further universalized. Even in the Astérix comics, in which the Gauls resisted him , he was treated as a respectable figure and a worthy enemy.

This three-episode British miniseries pulls no punches: it shows Julius Caesar as a cunning, calculating, unscrupulous man — a prisoner of excessive ambition who didn’t give up his efforts until he became dictator for life. He is clearly defined as a figure who destroyed five centuries of republican tradition. A system that — if it cannot be called completely democratic — was at least participatory, had a Senate and used elective procedures for its consuls, who had limitations on their power. What followed was something entirely different: five centuries of despotic empire.

In the series, Julius Caesar is referred to as “brutal, ruthless [and] genocidal on a large-scale,” as well as “dishonorable, immoral, anti-religious and [tyrannical].” It’s noted that he massacred more than 400,000 people in his conquests of Gaul, in violation of Roman laws.

The production is a docudrama, a genre that’s experiencing a sudden boom. However, in this case, the historians and politicians who participate in it — including Thomas Holland, Rory Stewart and Shami Chakrabarti — take the lead, while the dramatized scenes are silent, offering an attractive background image for the narrative.

The entire documentary is firmly attached to Caesar’s political career. There aren’t many details about his private life: not even his relationship with Cleopatra is mentioned, which worked so well in the 1963 production. His daughter Julia is only talked about because he married her off to Pompey, and her death during childbirth broke the link between the two men. Nor is Caesar’s legendary aptitude for military strategy analyzed. The focus is more on how he came to power over the course of 16 years, as the lessons from that era are still considered to be valid. All of the secondary characters in the production are either his rivals or political allies, which are very fickle categories. They include the aforementioned Pompey, Crassus, Cato, Cicero, Mark Antony, Cassius and Decimus. And, of course, Brutus, who, while claiming to be a defender of the Republic, found no other way to overthrow tyranny than by killing the tyrant.

Caesar’s dirty tricks are thoroughly detailed, as are his ever-shifting alliances and the violence that he exercised without hesitation, either directly or through gangs of thugs that he sent to intimidate or assassinate his political enemies. He had a capacity to unleash chaos and present himself as the only salvation. The film also explains Caesar’s charisma: how he became a hero to his people thanks to his military triumphs, and how he convinced the masses that he was with them and against the elites. He created a motto around the notion of “freedom.” Some of his merits that are recognized include the promotion of infrastructure, improved food distribution and lavish shows, elements of the expression “bread and circuses,” which referred to how Rome’s rulers kept the population complacent.

The central thesis of the BBC documentary is that Julius Caesar was a “populist capable of corrupting an entire state.” This is what links him with the world of today, in which democracies showing signs of decadence are producing leaders with authoritarian traits who violate the spirit and rules of the system. Donald Trump is cited in the film several times, as is Jair Bolsonaro, because both men, in the 21st century, instigated assaults by their followers on the legislative branches of their respective countries, in the same way that the Roman Senate was attacked by Caesar’s faithful before it was converted into a veritable puppet theater. Italy’s Silvio Berlusconi and Russia’s Vladimir Putin are also mentioned in passing.

From Caesar came the term “Caesarism,” which, in political science, defines an authoritarian ideology. Clearly, many Caesars now abound in this hyper-connected world of ours poisoned by tension. A second Trump term would be much more dangerous than the first for the most powerful country on the planet: he no longer needs to deceive anyone, but can go about his business without a mask. He recently noted that, if he wins, there will be no violence, but, if he doesn’t win, “it depends.”

Trump isn’t the only contemporary leader with short-term prospects for victory. There are many people around the world who surrender to the pull of the strongman. The experts who have portrayed Caesar in the BBC documentary warn viewers that they shouldn’t take democracy for granted, nor should they lose sight of other, modern Caesars. Nothing is happening today that couldn’t have happened in the ancient world.

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