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Julius Caesar Fate Vs Free Will

1004 Words5 Pages

Caesar Essay Fate and free will are the two aspects that seem to rule one’s life. They weave their hands into the choices that are made. The way one acts are based on these two important ideologies. Shakespeare approaches these ideas in a way that creates a dual mindset. In Julius Caesar, William Shakespeare uses his characters to argue that fate and free will are equally important ideologies that need to be prevalent in society. Fate is an important concept in Julius Caesar. William Shakespeare argues that fate is a determining factor for life and that death is predetermined. Near the start of the play, the soothsayer tells Caesar, “Beware the ides of March” (1.2.28). This is the first instance in which death is foretold. The soothsayer …show more content…

When free will and fate coexist, life becomes worth living. Shakespeare points out many times that death is foreseeable. This knowledge could destroy a person and cause them to not be able to enjoy what they have left. Caesar is an example of this idea. He was confronted by many people telling him he was going to die. He told his wife, “Cowards die many times before their deaths, / but the valiant taste of death but once. / … /It seems to me most strange that men should fear/ Seeing that death…/ Will come when it will come,” (2.2.34-39). This statement by Caesar emphasizes his view on fate. Shakespeare shows that if death is predetermined, and death is nigh, why would someone live in fear. He tells the reader that fate is what shapes life. If a fate is known, let it guide the journey, not overcome it. Free will is what makes the journey to the fate exciting. If one is valiant and able to overcome the trivial emotion of fear, their life would be very enjoyable because of their free will. Their choices put them on a path to victory. Brutus also finds this same realization, but much later in the play. Near the end of the play, Brutus is conversing with Cassius about their fate in the world. They fear they have nothing left and should just leave now. Brutus says, “But it sufficeth that the day will end, /And then the end is known,” (5.1.135-136). Brutus realizes that the end of the day will come. It is as inevitable as their fates. What one does with their days shows their character. Knowing that death will come soon is no reason to hang back and miss out on living. The truly courageous ones are the ones who make a great and honorable life for themselves, while still having a deadly prophecy hanging over their head. Free will allows one to transcend the boundaries of fate, which will be forever hovering

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