Julius Caesar - Before You Read Quiz

Caesar, Pompey, and Crassus formed the First Triumvirate. This was a political alliance formed in ancient Rome between these three powerful individuals. The purpose of the alliance was to consolidate their power and influence in the Roman Republic. They agreed to support each other's political ambitions and work together to achieve their goals. The First Triumvirate played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Rome during this period.

Caesar's assassination made March 15 famous. This date is known as the Ides of March, which marks the day when Julius Caesar, the Roman dictator, was assassinated in 44 BC. The assassination was a significant event in Roman history and had far-reaching consequences, leading to political and social upheaval in the Roman Republic. The phrase "Beware the Ides of March" has since become famous, thanks to Shakespeare's play "Julius Caesar," further cementing the association of March 15 with the assassination.

Caesar clashed with Pompey. Pompey was a prominent Roman general and politician who initially formed a political alliance with Caesar. However, their relationship deteriorated over time, leading to a civil war between the two. This conflict, known as the Roman Civil War, lasted from 49 to 45 BCE and ultimately resulted in Caesar's victory and Pompey's death.

After Caesar marched on Rome, he pursued Pompey to Egypt. This suggests that Pompey was fleeing from Caesar and sought refuge in Egypt. Caesar's pursuit of Pompey shows the power struggle and conflict between the two leaders during this time.

Shakespeare used the source "The Parallel Lives" to write the play. This suggests that he drew inspiration and material from this particular work, possibly using it as a reference or guide for his own play. It indicates that Shakespeare relied on existing literature and historical accounts to create his work, rather than solely relying on his personal experiences or oral tradition.

Julius Caesar's role in Rome was both a General and a Dictator. As a General, he led the Roman army to numerous victories and expanded the Roman Empire. He was known for his military prowess and strategic skills. Later, Caesar became a Dictator, holding absolute power and authority over Rome. He implemented various reforms and made significant changes to the political and social structure of Rome during his dictatorship.

After Caesar became dictator, the common people declared him "dictator for life." This means that they gave him the title of dictator indefinitely, without any time limit or term restrictions. This shows that Caesar's power and authority were solidified, and he was able to rule with complete control and dominance over Rome for the rest of his life.

The play begins one month before the assassination. This suggests that the events of the play lead up to the assassination, providing context and background information. Starting the play one month prior allows for a buildup of tension and anticipation, as the audience knows what is to come but doesn't know exactly how it will unfold. This timeline also allows for the development of characters and plot leading up to the pivotal event.

Pompey and the Senate were suspicious of Caesar's ambition. This suggests that both Pompey, a prominent military and political figure, and the Senate, the governing body of Rome, had concerns about Caesar's intentions and potential thirst for power. Their suspicions likely stemmed from Caesar's growing influence and popularity, as well as his military successes, which could have threatened their own positions of authority.

Roman generals did not answer to anyone. Unlike in the United States, where the President is the commander-in-chief of the military and generals report to him, Roman generals had autonomy and did not have to answer to any specific authority. This allowed them to have significant power and influence in the Roman Republic and Empire.