It is rather hard to estimate which of the essential characters in Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare such as Caesar, Brutus, and Antony is best for being the ruler of Rome. Each of them is appealing to the public and is interesting in a specific way. The struggle for the establishment of the public good and prevalence of the interests of common people instead of the ruler’s one is the primary criteria for making a right choice.Brutus is known for being loyal to the Romans and the state. He has a concern for the public, but these are not enough to make him a good leader. He is easily manipulated and influenced. If at first he speaks about Caesar in act I scene II “I love him well” (Shakespeare, 2005, p. 13), in act II scene I after being influenced by Cassius he decides to “think him as a serpent’s egg … and kill him in the shell” (Shakespeare, 2005, p. 32). Antony is an effective leader, but personal interests guide his actions. He inspired riot against Brutus and Cassius after Caesar’s murder, declaring in act III scene II: “Mischief, thou art afoot” (Shakespeare, 2005, p. 84). His interest is within the personal gain and feelings rather than in concern for the people. Caesar can be regarded as the best option for the leader because he cares for the people and he is popular among them. He lives his gardens and orchards to be used as public parks after his death. His only flaw is arrogance. In act I scene II he tells Cassius: “I rather tell thee what is to be fear’d than what I fear, for always I am Caesar” (Shakespeare, 2005, p. 18). But that arrogance served bad only for him, not the people.
In conclusion, judging from the characteristics presented by Shakespeare in the play, Caesar can be reviewed as the best option for the Rome. He puts people ahead of his interests. Besides, he is respected, popular, and serves the public good. Caesar cannot be manipulated and is loyal to Rome and its people.
- Shakespeare, W. (2005). Julius Caesar (Webster’s Thesaurus Edition for PSAT®, SAT®, GRE®, LSAT®, GMAT®, and AP® English Test Preparation). San Diego, CA: ICON Classics.
