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Cassius: …I that denied thee gold will give my heart. Strike as thou didst at Caesar.
Brutus: (Suddenly melting, he says gently,) Sheathe your dagger. (He pushes the weapon back to Cassius.) Be angry when you will. Do what you will.
(He puts his hand to his head.) O Cassius, I am sick of many griefs. (He gives a great sigh.) Portia is dead.
Cassius: (Shocked) Portia? (With wonder) How escaped I killing when I crossed you so?
Brutus: (Bravely) Speak no more of her. (His servant Lucius brings in a tray with wine, two bowls, a book, and a lighted candle.) Give me a bowl of wine. (He and Cassius raise bowls and toast each other.) In this I bury all unkindness, Cassius.
Question
Based on the excerpt, what effect does Portia's death have on Brutus?
Responses
Brutus loses his temper more easily with Cassius.
Brutus loses his temper more easily with Cassius.
Brutus is no longer strong enough to stand up to Cassius.
Brutus is no longer strong enough to stand up to Cassius.
Brutus realizes that arguing with Cassius is unimportant.
Brutus realizes that arguing with Cassius is unimportant.
Brutus is more concerned with with how Cassius treats him.
Brutus is more concerned with with how Cassius treats him.
1 answer
Based on the excerpt from Julius Caesar, the most appropriate response is:
Brutus realizes that arguing with Cassius is unimportant.
This conclusion is supported by Brutus's reaction to Cassius's anger and his own admission of grief over Portia's death. Instead of continuing the conflict with Cassius, he chooses to let go of their unkindness and focus on more important matters, highlighting his emotional state and prioritizing their friendship.
