Brutus Speech Essay

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Throughout the play ‘Julius Caesar,‘ written by William Shakespeare, the author demonstrates the power of language, specific techniques and features. An example of implementation can be found within Brutus’s speech where several techniques are used to sway the reader, the audience and the mob. Language within Brutus’s speech is also taken advantage of to portray certain themes and ideas. The use of pathos and ethos arguments, parallel structure and rhetorical questions are highly effective. Pathos and ethos arguments are included within Brutus’s speech. Pathos represents an appeal to a certain audience’s emotions. At the commencement of his speech, Brutus states: ‘Romans, countrymen and lovers! Hear me for my cause and be silent, that you may hear.’ (3, 2, 13) This passage exemplifies Brutus using words to begin his speech and ensure his audience is listening by naming them specifically as ‘Romans,’ ‘countrymen,’ and ‘lovers.’ This use of language also implies that whoever is not attentive to Brutus’s speech is in fact no Roman. Another observation can be made within this quotation. Brutus, being a noble Patrician, would naturally converse in Blank Verse, or the communication method of higher class citizens. However, within his speech, Brutus is conversing with the mob within Prose. Prose is the common form of communication used by Plebeians, or lower class citizens. The fact that Brutus is delivering his speech within Prose is suggesting that he is adapting his language to accommodate for, or gain the respect of the Plebeian demographic. Ethos represents one’s own ethical appeal. Brutus continues his speech stating: ‘Believe me for mine honour, and have respect to mine honour that you may believe.’ (3, 2, 14) Brutus is portrayed as a noble and honourable character throughout the play, and his reputation is widely recognized within the mob. The use of
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