Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Was Brutus a hero for assassinating Julius Caesar?

The nature of Brutus as either a hero or villain is open to differing opinions and this is based on the man’s character and his actions. Those who viewed Caesar as a hero would definitely view his killer as the villain, while on the other hand, those who recognized his outstanding character would consider him a hero. In my opinion, I consider Brutus a hero, not because he participated in the assassination of Caesar, but more so because of his reasons to take part in the murder.


Caesar was an ambitious leader and prior to his death he was making plans to establish himself as an emperor/ dictator. According to Brutus, his friend was turning against the republic and was soon going to become a tyrant who would restrict individual rights and freedoms. The other assassins were fueled by jealousy but Brutus was more concerned about the republic and the threat posed by his friend. In this regard, and for his actions to end Caesar’s life, Brutus would be considered a hero. Despite harboring intentions of becoming a dictator, Caesar had the overwhelming support of the people and according to Brutus, to save the republic his death was inevitable. Mark Antony recognized Brutus’s reasons and character as seen when he stated,



This was the noblest Roman of them all.


All the conspirators save only he


Did that they did in envy of great Caesar.


He only in a general honest thought


And common good to all made one of them.


His life was gentle, and the elements


So mixed in him that nature might stand up


And say to all the world "This was a man."


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