The discussion about where to fight Antony and Octavius reveals that Cassius is more cautious and practical than Brutus. Cassius prefers to remain in a defensive position, allowing the enemy to tire themselves out by marching to them, which reflects a more conservative and pragmatic approach to warfare. In contrast, Brutus advocates for taking immediate action and seizing the opportunity by marching to Philippi, demonstrating a tendency toward boldness and a desire for decisive engagement. This difference in strategy highlights the contrasting characteristics and approaches of the two leaders.
Read the excerpt from Act IV
of Julius Caesar.
Announcer 1: Now they must decide where to fight Antony and Octavius - at Philippi, four hundred miles away, or here at Sardis.
Brutus: (To them all) What do you think of marching to Philippi presently?
Cassius: (Sharply) I do not think it good.
Brutus: Your reason?
Announcer 2: Cassius wants the enemy to make the long march here to Sardis, so they will become tired.
Cassius: (Sensibly) Tis better that the enemy seek us. So shall he weary his soldiers, whilst we are of rest, defense , and nimbleness.
Announcer 1: But Brutus wants to make the long march to Philippi. He feels the time is right for them to move, like ships which sail on a high tide to success, not staying trapped in shallow water.
Question
What does this discussion about where to fight Antony and Octavious reveal about Brutus and Cassius?
Responses
Brutus is willing to take the advice of others, but Cassius is inflexible.
Brutus is willing to take the advice of others, but Cassius is inflexible.
Cassius is more cautious and practical than Brutus.
Cassius is more cautious and practical than Brutus.
Cassius acts without thinking, but Brutus takes the time to consider all options.
Cassius acts without thinking, but Brutus takes the time to consider all options.
Brutus is a more strategic thinker than Cassius.
Brutus is a more strategic thinker than Cassius.
1 answer