Within Julius Caesar Shakespeare uses manipulation in order to show how corrupt government can be, in stark contrast with the current government that Shakespeare is experiencing. A transition of power is in the future for Shakespeare and he wants the public to learn of how they cannot be manipulated into decisions, and must look at things without a tainted idea. Shakespeare uses the main political Figures in Julius Caesar, Brutus and Antony, to show this form of political manipulation of people with less power. The first example of deceit and manipulation come when Brutus betrays Caesar and kills him. Caesar says to Brutus on page 1130 line 127, “And we (like friends) will straightway go together.” Caesar has put his trust into Brutus and relies on him, however “every like is not the same” (pg1130 line 28). When Brutus is stabbed he turns and sees Brutus we see how much trust Caesar had in him and he questions him, “Even you, Brutus?”(page 137 line 77). Caesar is manipulated into thinking that he …show more content…
Lepidus is soft willed and doesn’t have what it takes to be in control of Rome. On page 1154 lines 20-21 Antony explains the role of Lepidus as,”To ease ourselves of divers sland’rous loads/He shall but bear them as the ass bears gold.” Lepidus is only their so when the triumviant makes the public angry Lepidus can take the scrutiny from the public eye. Lepidus has no true power, however with words and commands Antony has been able to lead him into thinking he is important, when in reality he is the scapegoat. Through the use of deceit and lies 2 political powers rose, taking supporters and underhandedly using them and manipulating their thoughts. Shakespeare effectively used cause and effect to advance the story: selfishness, and weakminded-ness caused turmoil pain, and betrayal. Julius Caesar truly represents how deceit and manipulation is used in politics, and shows that without an opinion people can be swayed