In Act 5 of "Julius Caesar," both Antony and Octavius reflect on Brutus after his death. They express respect for him, highlighting his noble nature and his honorable intentions. Antony, in particular, acknowledges that Brutus acted out of a commitment to what he believed was for the greater good of Rome, contrasting Brutus’s motives with the other conspirators.
After Brutus dies, Antony famously states:
"This was the noblest Roman of them all; All the conspirators, save only he, Did that they did in envy of great Caesar; He alone did it for the good of Rome."
This remark underscores the theme of honor and integrity. Antony recognizes that, unlike the other conspirators who were driven by jealousy or personal ambition, Brutus was genuinely motivated by his love for Rome. Antony's comments illustrate that despite their opposing sides, he sees Brutus as a figure of integrity, someone who acted with a sense of moral duty. Octavius agrees and promotes the idea of honoring Brutus, indicating the respect he held even among those who were adversaries.