The best interpretation of Caesar's attitude about his possible death in this passage is "His end will be decided by the gods." Caesar acknowledges the ominous signs and predictions surrounding him but maintains a sense of inevitability regarding his fate. He believes that if his end is predetermined by the mighty gods, then he cannot avoid it, suggesting a belief in fate and divine will. This reflects his confidence and disregard for the omens, as he feels that he will fulfill his destiny regardless of the warnings presented to him.
CALPURNIA. A lioness hath whelpèd in the streets,
And graves have yawned, and yielded up their dead.
Fierce fiery warriors fight upon the clouds,
In ranks and squadrons and right form of war,
Which drizzled blood upon the Capitol.
The noise of battle hurtled in the air,
Horses do neigh, and dying men did groan,
And ghosts did shriek and squeal about the streets.
O Caesar, these things are beyond all use,
And I do fear them.
CAESAR. What can be avoided
Whose end is purposed by the mighty gods?
Yet Caesar shall go forth, for these predictions
Are to the world in general as to Caesar.
CALPURNIA. When beggars die there are no comets seen;
The heavens themselves blaze forth the death of princes.
–The Tragedy of Julius Caesar,
William Shakespeare
Keeping in mind the symbolism in this passage, what is the best interpretation of Caesar’s attitude about his possible death?
His name will live on it glory when he dies.
These omens relate to other people, too.
He believes the predictions are false.
His end will be decided by the gods.
1 answer