Human Nature Revealed In Shakespeare's Julius Caesar

Lessons About Human Nature Revealed In Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar The world of Julius Caesar shares many similarities with the world today, minus the differences in the time and some of the culture. The play demonstrates the idea that honor, power, and the values of society at the time were extremely important to humans and the world as they knew it. Although many aspects in society have changed drastically since the play took place, many of the lessons about human nature that are revealed are still relevant to this day. One of the most major differences between the world of Julius Caesar and the world today is the way honor is perceived. In Julius Caesar, honor is something that people greatly value and strive to have, and it is earned by showing traits like bravery and loyalty. For example, Brutus talks about Caesar, saying, “Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more” (3.2.21-22). These lines show how Brutus puts his honor of Rome over how he may feel for Caesar. To compare, today’s society puts less emphasis on honor and more on succeeding as an individual and being recognized for that.

It shows a society where people are willing to do almost anything they can to obtain power, the main thing shown being acts of violence and betrayal. For instance, when Cassius convinces Brutus to join the conspiracy against Caesar, he says, “Men at some time are masters of their fates: The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, But in ourselves, that we are underlings” (1.2.140-142). This highlights the desire for power and control and willingness to do whatever it takes to acquire it that exists in society. Today, power struggles still play a major role in things like politics and business, with people willing to do whatever it takes to achieve their