Julius Caesar - Act IV - Foil

Question 1

main concept

Answer 1

• much of the power of Shakespeare’s dramas is his mastery of language. note his use of the dramatic device of a foil to reveal his character

Question 2

foil

Answer 2

• a character whose character traits provide contrast with another (often a secondary character whose traits contrast with those of a major character)

Question 3

characters and their foils in Julius Caesar

Answer 3

= Antony - Octavius
= Antony - Brutus
= Cassius - Brutus

Question 4

note

Answer 4

• Cassius’ tendency to “rash humor” contrasts with Brutus’ nature to see things more logically
• Cassius, with his emotional nature, acts as a foil for Brutus, who has a gentle nature
• Cassius responds emotionally to Brutus’
• Cassius’ hot temper, emotion, sets off Brutus’ logic
• Cassius’ rashness- “O ye immortal gods!” -contrasts with Brutus’ control - “speak no more of her”
• Cassius suspicious nature contrasts with Brutus’ straight-forward, trusting nature
• Cassius’ character of taking bribes contrasts with Brutus’ character of being honest
• Octavius positive, fair attitude towards Lepidus contrasts with Antony’s negative, scheming one