BRUTUS. He is not doubted.—A word, Lucillius.

Question

How he received you let me be resolved.

LUCILLIUS. With courtesy and with respect enough,

But not with such familiar instances,

Nor with such free and friendly conference,

As he hath used of old.

BRUTUS. Thou hast described

A hot friend cooling. Ever note, Lucillius:

When love begins to sicken and decay

It useth an enforcèd ceremony.

There are no tricks in plain and simple faith;

But hollow men, like horses hot at hand,

Make gallant show and promise of their mettle;

But when they should endure the bloody spur,

They fall their crests and, like deceitful jades,

Sink in the trial. Comes his army on?

–The Tragedy of Julius Caesar,
William Shakespeare

How does Lucillius, a minor character in the play, help advance the plot in this passage?

Lucillius is protective of Cassius so he diminishes the seriousness of the conflict.
Lucillius tells Brutus that Cassius intends to attack Brutus, increasing the tension and conflict.
Lucillius does not tell Brutus much about Cassius, which causes Brutus to question the loyalty of Lucillius.
Lucillius explains that Cassius is far less frlendly than he once was, and Brutus uses the information to confirm his judgement that Cassius is turning against him.

Answer 1

In this passage, Lucillius helps advance the plot by explaining that Cassius is far less friendly than he once was, which allows Brutus to confirm his judgment that Cassius is turning against him. By highlighting the changes in Cassius's demeanor—specifically, that he is treating Brutus with less familiarity and warmth—Lucillius provides crucial information that contributes to Brutus's growing suspicion and concern about his relationship with Cassius. This sets the stage for further conflict and tension within the ranks of the conspirators, ultimately impacting the dynamics of their alliance and the unfolding events in the play. Therefore, the correct answer is:

Lucillius explains that Cassius is far less friendly than he once was, and Brutus uses the information to confirm his judgment that Cassius is turning against him.