[BRUTUS.] And for Mark Antony, think not of him,

Question

For he can do no more than Caesar’s arm
When Caesar’s head is off.

How does this example of dramatic irony affect the audience?

It makes Brutus seem honorable.
It heightens suspense because Mark Antony is dangerous.
It makes Cassius look weak and indecisive.
It heightens suspense because Brutus is dangerous.

Answer 1

The example of dramatic irony you provided, where Brutus underestimates Mark Antony, affects the audience primarily by heightening suspense because Mark Antony is dangerous. The audience knows that Antony is a cunning and strategic character who poses a significant threat to the conspirators after Caesar's assassination, while Brutus believes that Antony is harmless without Caesar. This creates tension as the audience anticipates the consequences of Brutus's misjudgment and its impact on the unfolding events. Therefore, the correct answer is:

It heightens suspense because Mark Antony is dangerous.