Question

[CAESAR.] He reads much,
He is a great observer, and he looks
Quite through the deeds of men. He loves no
plays,
[. . .] he hears no music.
Seldom he smiles, and smiles in such a sort
As if he mocked himself and scorned his spirit
That could be moved to smile at anything.
Such men as he be never at heart’s ease
Whiles they behold a greater than themselves,
And therefore are they very dangerous.

–The Tragedy of Julius Caesar,
William Shakespeare

Read the passage. Why does Caesar think that Cassius is dangerous?

Cassius never smiles.
Cassius never pays attention.
Cassius has a kind heart.
Cassius is very close to Caesar.

Answer 1

Because Cassius is resentful/ambitious toward those greater than himself — Caesar notes Cassius “seldom he smiles” and is never at ease when he sees someone greater, so he’s dangerous. (Choose: "Cassius never smiles.")