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Julius Caesar Tragic Hero Essay

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The idea of a tragic hero is a common trope used in many ancient pieces of literature. In Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, Brutus, who is the main protagonist, is a clear example of one. Some common traits of a tragic hero are reversal of fortune, suffering, and a fatal flaw. These traits contribute to Brutus’ downfall throughout the story. Brutus’ fatal flaw is his idealism and self-confidence. Due to these flaws and events, Brutus as a character changes astonishingly throughout the play. In Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar," Brutus exemplifies the tragic hero archetype, experiencing a reversal of fortune due to his fatal flaws of idealism and self-confidence, leading to his downfall. Three common traits of a tragic hero are reversal of fortune, suffering, …show more content…

Brutus’ place in society was a complete inversion. Thinking he was doing the right thing, Brutus decided to kill Caesar, which turned his life in the wrong direction. (Core 16) Brutus had to suffer through seeing his wife and friends die, while also living with the guilt of killing a friend. Brutus’ fatal flaw also contributed heavily to his downfall. The idea of a fatal flaw is a common one among all tragic heroes. Brutus’ fatal flaw is his idealism and self-confidence. No matter what, Brutus would trust the people with unwavering faith, beyond their flaws, and in full trust of them. (Core 19) For example, in Act 3, Scene 2 Brutus says, "Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more." When Cassius tells Brutus that killing Caesar would benefit the people, Brutus immediately agrees. This backfires and shows that sometimes you have to think more logically before going with the people. Brutus is also very self-confident and has a big ego in the book. He takes charge once he joins the conspirators and should take most of the blame for killing Caesar. During Julius Caesar, Brutus’ character goes through a rollercoaster of

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