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Julius Caesar Essay: How Does Politics Affect Relationships?

775 Words4 Pages

How do politics affect relationships?
A quote from Thomas Jefferson states, “I never considered a difference of opinion in politics, in religion, in philosophy, as cause for withdrawing from a friend” (Jefferson). Thomas Jefferson asserts that differences in opinions, in this case politics, should not affect personal relationships. However, this may prove true in some cases, politics can have both negative and positive effects on relationships. In The Tragedy of Julius Caesar, written by William Shakespeare, the conflicts that develop from the difference of opinions, about political situations, both positively and negatively affect the people involved. The relationships exemplified throughout the play develop differently due to the varying …show more content…

Cassius and Brutus’ relationship varies throughout the play. Especially because of the significance of their personal relationship, due the the fact they are brother-in-laws. This closeness between the two strengthens their original relationship, before the influence of politics. During a meeting between the conspirators, Cassius suggests that the conspirators swear to killing Caesar. Brutus responds, “No, not an oath” (II. i. 125). Although they had a strong relationship at one time, Brutus and Cassius’ relationship starts to deteriorate because of their growing roles in politics, as shown in the example above. The recurrence of conflict continually weakens Brutus’ and Cassius’ relationship also. After Caesar’s assassination, a civil war breaks out between Brutus, Cassius and Antony, Lepidus, and Octavius. Brutus and Cassius assimilate in order to win the war, which strengthens their relationship. However, they continue to disagree, in particular when Cassius states, “Most noble brother, you have done me wrong” (IV. ii. 41). In this one statement, Cassius both notes his deep connection to Brutus, along with their recurring disagreements. The intimacy between Brutus and Cassius strengthens their personal relationship, yet the high influence of politics in their lives continues to break their relationship. Therefore, even though a relationship may be strong

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