Topic > The Power of Words in Julius Caesar

Throughout history it has been noted that when men seek power they use their words and actions to advance themselves. Whether this is through speeches, acts of courage or self-promotion through the media. The words and actions they use can make or break their leadership. In the play Julius Caesar, William Shakespeare shows the reader the effects of those words. Julius Caesar is the story of a leader betrayed by his close friend Brutus, manipulating their friend Cassius. When Caesar was killed, Brutus's only task was to convince his peers that the murder was for the better and benefited the people of Rome. Although the speeches of Mark Antony and Brutus had similarities with their use of rhetorical and persuasive devices, Brutus's were far above those of Brutus due to his use of Logos, Ethos, Pathos, and anaphora. The speech of Brutus and Mark Antony has many similarities. One thing they both believe is that Caesar's death was for the greater good and benefited the people of Rome. In Brutus' speech he says: "If then that friend asks me why Brutus rebelled against Caesar, this is my answer: not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more." (JC 3,2 20,22). Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get Original EssayBrutus is saying in this quote that he loves Caesar but he loves Rome and that is why he went against him. Brutus' use of rhetorical questions helps to make the crowd think, it also helps him connect his speech to the crowd. Brutus uses the Logos which is logical often throughout his speech, he says “Censor me in your wisdom and awaken your senses that you may be the best judge” (JC 3.2.16.17). Use this tactic to persuade the people of Rome. Brutus also uses a lot of anaphoric phrases, which is very helpful in getting your point across. Brutus says, “Believe me for my honor and have respect for my honor that you may believe.” (JC 3.2.14-15). He repeats this so many times to make sure the crowd knows how honorable he is. Honor is a very important thing to talk about because it is one of the main things that the people of Rome care about. Some people believe that Mark Antony's speech is better because of his use of rhetorical questions. He says: “I presented him three times with a royal crown, which he refused three times. Was this the ambition?”. (JC 3.2.95-96). This question really made the crowd think about how humble Caesar was. Mark Antony's use of rhetorical questions is very important during his speech because once he convinces the audience, he gets them on his side. Another question he asks is, “What reason then keeps you from crying over him?” (JC 3.2 101-102). This question causes the crowd to be moved by Caesar's death. In conclusion, the differences and similarities of the speeches had everything to do with the fact that Brutus' speech was far superior to Mark Antony's. His use of logos, pathos, ethos, and anophoric phrases help him gain the upper hand in his speech. This proves that words can make or break your leadership and create the crowd with or against you.