Friday, January 31, 2014

Why does Cassius want Brutus to join the conspiracy?

Cassius feels that Brutus would be a useful member of the conspiracy, for more than one reason. First, he is close to Brutus, and feels he will be able to convince him of the value of the idea. He plays upon Brutus' love for Rome, and the ideals of Rome, to convince him that Caesar's behavior is wrong and must be stopped -- something he thinks Brutus already believes. Cassius reminds Brutus that Caesar is just a man, the same as they are, and they should not allow him to set himself up as a king.
Cassius's other reasons for choosing Brutus specifically revolve around Brutus's standing in Rome, with the senate, and with Caesar himself. Brutus is Caesar's "angel," beloved of him, whereas Caesar dislikes Cassius and would therefore be distrustful of any instruction Cassius might give him. Cassius needs Brutus on hand because Brutus will not only know Caesar's movements, but be able to persuade him one way or another to be at the senate on a certain day.


Cassius is portrayed as a shrewd politician who is willing to go to great lengths to enact his political agenda, and he attempts to convince Brutus to join the group of conspirators against Julius Caesar. Cassius wants Brutus to join the conspirators for several significant reasons. Cassius is aware that Brutus is an honorable man who is respected and revered by the Roman populace. Having a man of Brutus's caliber and rank on their side gives Cassius and the conspirators much-needed support from the Roman citizens. Cassius is aware that Brutus's honorable reputation will justify their actions to the Roman populace, and the citizens will be less likely to riot against the senators. Cassius also knows that Brutus is a close friend of Julius Caesar. If Brutus joins the conspirators, Cassius will now have an inside man who will be able to persuade and influence Caesar into walking into their trap. Brutus will also be able to relay valuable information to the conspirators that will assure that their assassination attempt is successful.

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