You could start off your essay by making a strong thesis statement about Caesar's belief that he is immovable after a number of the senators requested that he consider the repeal of Metellus Cimber's brother's banishment. Caesar was quite obstinate in this regard and refused to give an inch.
The second paragraph can discuss the importance of Caesar's allusion to Mount Olympus and how he wishes to emphasise the strength of his will by using this particular reference.
In your next paragraph, you may refer to the actual purpose of the conspirators in lodging this request. References can be made to the fact that they sought to approach him in order to commit whatever deed they had planned. Discuss the nature of that deed. This can lead into another one or two paragraphs which provide some background on the plot to assassinate Caesar and Cassius' role in this regard.
Discuss Cassius' criticism of Caesar and his frailties. Mention the contrast he draws between the general, himself and Brutus. Contrast this opinion with Caesar's vision of himself, especially with regard to what he tells Metellus Cimber in scene 1, Act 3 (lines 35-48).
In your penultimate paragraph, you can refer to the irony of Caesar's perception of himself in the light of what happens immediately after he pronounces the words stated in your quote and especially his remark to Brutus about his kneeling.
The concluding paragraph may sum up the point that Caesar's perception and reality are an antithesis and how this perception is emphasised by his unfortunate and inopportune remark about Mount Olympus.
Briefly, then, the focus of your essay should be the dramatic, verbal and situational irony depicted in this scene.
No comments:
Post a Comment