1.
Why do Flavius and Marullus demand that the decorations be removed from the statues in the opening scene?
Correct Answer
B. They did not want the people to celebrate Caesar.
Explanation
Flavius and Marullus demand that the decorations be removed from the statues in the opening scene because they did not want the people to celebrate Caesar. This suggests that they were opposed to Caesar's rise to power and were trying to prevent any form of adulation or support for him. By removing the decorations, they wanted to discourage the people from showing their loyalty and devotion to Caesar, possibly because they saw him as a threat to the Roman Republic or because they believed he was undeserving of such praise.
2.
What message does the Soothsayer give to Julius Caesar?
Correct Answer
A. Beware the Ides of March.
Explanation
The Soothsayer warns Julius Caesar to be cautious of the Ides of March. This is significant because the Ides of March is the day on which Caesar is assassinated. The warning foreshadows the impending danger and emphasizes the Soothsayer's prophetic abilities.
3.
After Caesar refuses to accept the crown offered by Antony, what physical weakness of Caesar is revealed to both the crowd and the readers?
Correct Answer
C. Epilepsy
Explanation
Caesar is revealed to the readers and the crowd as suffering from the physical weakness of epilepsy. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, and there are historical accounts Caesar's epileptic episodes were both real and troublesome. This may have influenced his decision to decline Antony's offer of the crown, as the discovery of his epilepsy could have potentially undermined Caesar's authority and revealed a vulnerability.
4.
Which of the following unusual scenes was NOT witnessed by Casca in scene III of Act I?
Correct Answer
D. A serpent breathing fire in the marketplace.
Explanation
Casca witnessed several unusual scenes in scene III of Act I, as described in the options. However, the scene where a serpent is breathing fire in the marketplace was not witnessed by Casca. This suggests that while Casca did witness other strange occurrences, a serpent breathing fire in the marketplace was not one of them.
5.
What is the purpose of the notes Cassius sent with Cinna at the end of Act I?
Correct Answer
C. To convince Brutus that the Roman people needed him to join the conspiracy.
Explanation
The purpose of the notes Cassius sent with Cinna at the end of Act I was to convince Brutus that the Roman people needed him to join the conspiracy. This suggests that Cassius believed that convincing Brutus of the people's support would be crucial in persuading him to join the plot against Caesar.
6.
Which character describes Caesar as "a serpent's egg," which should be "killed in the shell"?
Correct Answer
A. Brutus
Explanation
In Shakespeare's play "Julius Caesar," the character who describes Caesar as "a serpent's egg" that should be "killed in the shell" is Brutus. This statement reflects Brutus' belief that Caesar's rise to power poses a threat to the Roman Republic, and that it is better to eliminate him before he becomes even more powerful. Brutus sees Caesar as a potential danger and believes that taking action against him early on is necessary to protect the freedom and stability of Rome.
7.
Choose the letter beside the words that correctly fill in the blanks.
"__________ die many times before their deaths; the __________ never taste of death but once."
Correct Answer
D. Cowards, valiant
Explanation
The quote goes: "Cowards die many times before their deaths; the valiant never taste of death but once." This implies that cowards experience fear and anxiety throughout their lives, while "the valiant never taste of death but once" suggests that brave individuals face death only once, showing their courage and fearlessness.
8.
In Act II, Scene II, what happens in Calphurnia's terrible nightmare?
Correct Answer
B. Caesar's statue spouts blood, and Romans smile as they bathe their hands in it.
Explanation
In Calphurnia's nightmare, she enters the Capitol and sees Caesar's statue spouting blood, while Romans around her smile and bathe their hands in it. This vivid and disturbing image suggests that Calphurnia is fearful of Caesar's impending assassination and the violent aftermath that will follow. The spouting blood symbolizes the loss of life and the chaos that will ensue, while the smiling Romans represent a sense of enjoyment or satisfaction in the violence. This nightmare serves as a foreshadowing of the tragic events that will unfold in the play.
9.
Who convinces Caesar to go to the Capitol?
Correct Answer
C. Decius
Explanation
Decius convinces Caesar to go to the Capitol. This is evident from historical accounts and Shakespeare's play "Julius Caesar." In the play, Decius uses flattery and manipulation to persuade Caesar that the Senate has decided to crown him as the king. Decius interprets Calphurnia's dream, which warned Caesar of his impending death, as a positive sign and convinces him that it would be unwise to ignore the Senate's decision. Caesar ultimately succumbs to Decius' persuasion and decides to go to the Capitol, leading to his assassination.
10.
What does Artemidorus write in his letter to Caesar?
Correct Answer
D. A warning about the conspiracy.
Explanation
Artemidorus writes a letter to Caesar in order to warn him about the conspiracy that is taking place. This suggests that he is aware of the plot against Caesar's life and wants to inform him about it. The other options, such as praise for his success, a request for help, or an update on a personal matter, do not align with the context of the question, which specifically asks about what Artemidorus writes in his letter. Therefore, the correct answer is that Artemidorus writes a warning about the conspiracy.
11.
Which character has "a man's mind, but a woman's might"?
Correct Answer
A. Portia
Explanation
Portia is the correct answer because she is known for her intelligence and strength of character. Despite being a woman in a patriarchal society, she possesses a sharp mind and displays great courage and determination. This is evident in her famous speech about the quality of mercy and her willingness to go to extreme lengths to prove her loyalty and love for her husband, Brutus. Portia's combination of intelligence and strength make her a character with "a man's mind, but a woman's might."
12.
Which man is assigned the task of stabbing Caesar first?
Correct Answer
A. Casca
Explanation
Casca is the correct answer because in William Shakespeare's play "Julius Caesar," Casca is assigned the task of stabbing Caesar first. Casca is one of the conspirators against Caesar and plays a significant role in the assassination. He is known for delivering the first blow to Caesar during the attack, which ultimately leads to Caesar's death.
13.
In Caesar's final speech before the assassination, he compares himself to which of the following?
Correct Answer
C. The northern star.
Explanation
In Caesar's final speech before the assassination, he compares himself to the northern star. This comparison suggests that like the fixed and constant position of the northern star in the sky, Caesar's influence and power are unwavering and unchanging. It implies that he is a guiding force for Rome and its people, just as the northern star serves as a navigational guide. This comparison also highlights Caesar's belief in his own importance and his desire for eternal glory and recognition.
14.
Which words were used to alert the conspirators that the time had come to strike?
Correct Answer
B. "Speak hands for me!"
Explanation
The phrase "Speak hands for me!" was used to alert the conspirators that the time had come to strike. This phrase implies that they should use their hands (daggers) to take action and carry out the plan. It serves as a signal for them to begin the act of assassination and overthrow the tyrannical rule in Rome.
15.
What is the name of Brutus' young servant boy?
Correct Answer
C. Lucius
Explanation
Lucius is the correct answer because he is the young servant boy of Brutus. Lucius is introduced in the play "Julius Caesar" as a loyal servant who is trusted by Brutus. He is depicted as a helpful and obedient character, always ready to assist his master. Lucius plays a minor role in the play but serves as a symbol of loyalty and devotion to Brutus.
16.
Which of the following scenarios is used by Cassius to convince Brutus that Caesar is not as great as everyone seems to think he is.
Correct Answer
D. Caesar's power and ambition unchecked would lead to a dishonourable death.
Explanation
Cassius appeals to Brutus' sense of honor and pride, arguing that Caesar's tyranny poses a threat. He suggests that allowing Caesar's unchecked power and ambition would ultimately result in a dishonorable demise. This persuasion aims to convince Brutus to join the conspiracy against Caesar.
17.
At the Feast of Lupercal, Caesar says, "Forget not in your speed, Antonius, To touch Calphurnia." Why does he say this?
Correct Answer
C. It is believed that a barren woman touched in the race will become fertile, and CalpHurnia has not yet given birth to an heir.
Explanation
Caesar says this because it is believed that a barren woman touched in the race will become fertile, and Calphurnia has not yet given birth to an heir. Caesar wants Antony to touch Calphurnia in the hope that it will bring fertility and increase the chances of her conceiving a child.
18.
Brutus loves ____________ more than he fears death.
Correct Answer
D. Honor
Explanation
Brutus loves honor more than he fears death. This suggests that Brutus values his reputation, integrity, and principles above all else. He is willing to risk his life in order to uphold his beliefs and maintain his sense of honor. This highlights Brutus' strong moral character and his commitment to doing what he believes is right, even in the face of danger and potential death.
19.
How many times was the crown offered to Caesar by Antony?
Correct Answer
B. 3 times
Explanation
Antony offered the crown to Caesar three times. This suggests that Antony was attempting to persuade Caesar to accept the crown and become a king. The repetition of the offer emphasizes Antony's persistence and desire for Caesar to take on a more powerful role.
20.
Who convinces Brutus to join the conspiracy?
Correct Answer
A. Cassius
Explanation
Cassius convinces Brutus to join the conspiracy because he recognizes Brutus as a respected and influential figure among the Roman people. Cassius appeals to Brutus' sense of honor and patriotism, arguing that Caesar's ambition poses a threat to the Roman Republic. He manipulates Brutus' fears and concerns, ultimately persuading him that killing Caesar is necessary for the greater good of Rome. Cassius plays a crucial role in convincing Brutus to join the conspiracy and become one of its key leaders.