The Tragedy of Julius Caesar
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The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, But in ourselves, that we are underlings. |
Focus: Shakespeare and the Use of RhetoricRhetoric may be defined as the faculty of observing in any given case the available means of persuasion. - Aristotle |
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All modes of discourse have a purpose. To entertain, to inform, and to persuade are all valid purposes for speeches. Antony's funeral oration is intended to persuade his audience, and he uses various rhetorical strategies to achieve this purpose. As we read Julius Caesar we will follow the characters closely, especially Antony, to determine his ethos, so we may determine how he uses pathos and logos to affect.
Shakespeare, one of the most famous bards, wrote Julius Caesar based on the actual life and death of the Roman leader. In order to understand the motives of Caesar and the people around him we'll need to delve into the world of ancient Rome. We will also need to become familiar with the conventions of the Elizabethan playwright. Click on the title of the play (above) or the picture of Caesar (left) to access the PDF of Julius Caesar.
Shakespeare, one of the most famous bards, wrote Julius Caesar based on the actual life and death of the Roman leader. In order to understand the motives of Caesar and the people around him we'll need to delve into the world of ancient Rome. We will also need to become familiar with the conventions of the Elizabethan playwright. Click on the title of the play (above) or the picture of Caesar (left) to access the PDF of Julius Caesar.
Introduction to the Four Roman Virtues and Rhetorical Devices
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As you read the play, keep in mind the traditional Roman virtues to which Shakespeare attempted to adhere in the story of Julius Caesar's life and death. Analyze the character traits of the following leaders in the play by Tracing the Characters.
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Mark Antony's Eulogy for Julius Caesar: An Introduction to Rhetorical Strategies & Devices
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After you read Act 3, you will analyze Antony's eulogy for Caesar. What is his purpose in giving the speech? How does he use rhetorical devices to help him fulfill his purpose? To what degree is he successful?
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BBC: The Tragedy of Julius Caesar
We will watch the play first. Then, we will go back and read act three in preparation for a rhetorical analysis essay on one of the speeches.
Charlton Heston's Delivery of Mark Antony's Eulogy
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