Act 1, Scene 3 Summary
Summary
The scene opens with a stormy night in Rome, full of strange events and signs. Cicero, a Roman statesman, meets Casca, one of the conspirators, who is disturbed by the unnatural events taking place. Casca describes the eerie things he has witnessed: a man with his hand on fire, yet not burning; a lion roaming the streets without attacking anyone; and an owl, a bird of the night, seen in the daytime.
Cicero sits there but does not seem bothered by these omens. He bids goodbye to Casca and then departs. Once Cicero is gone, Cassius enters. Casca admits that he is afraid of the storm and the signs, but Cassius, another member of the conspiracy, is not concerned either. He perceives the strange happenings as messages from the gods about the corruption in Rome and the dangerous rise of Julius Caesar to power.
Cassius uses this moment to manipulate Casca, saying that Caesar’s rise is against the will of the gods and that the signs warn us of an impending danger. He boldly tells Casca that he would rather die than be ruled by Caesar. Cassius reveals that he has already gathered a group of conspirators to overthrow Caesar and invites Casca to join them.
Casca, who now thinks something should be done agrees to go along with the plot. Cassius is elated and informs him that they will see the rest of the conspirators at Pompey's theatre. Before leaving, another one of the conspirators named Cinna arrives and is briefed on their plans. The two decide that Brutus, being a prominent man of Rome, would play a great role in making the plot plausible and also influence the public's perception of it.
At the end of the scene, the idea of killing Caesar comes to life. The conspirators think that action needs to be taken before Caesar becomes king.
Significance of this Scene
Act 1, Scene 3 of Julius Caesar is set for tension and a feeling of impending disaster. Unusual supernatural happenings demonstrate the troubling condition of Rome and point to more serious events that are about to unfold. This scene is crucial because it solidifies the conspiracy against Caesar and shows how manipulation, fear, and omens push people into action. Cassius’ ability to sway Casca and others highlights his leadership in the conspiracy. The scene also prepares the audience for the turmoil that will follow, setting the stage for the assassination of Julius Caesar.
Important Quotes
"Clean from the purpose of the things themselves." – Cicero
Cicero reflecting on how people interpret events based on their views.
"O, he sits high in all the people’s hearts; And that which would appear offence in us, His countenance, like richest alchemy, Will change to virtue and to worthiness." – Casca
Casca explaining why Brutus is important to the conspiracy.
"Cassius from bondage will deliver Cassius." – Cassius
Cassius expressing his determination to escape Caesar's rule.
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