ipl-logo

Rhetorical Devices In Julius Caesar

1185 Words5 Pages
One of the fundamental aspects of literature that still exists presently conveys the ability to illustrate a metaphorical boundary line between what constitutes as good or evil. In the world of Shakespeare, a plethora of rhetorical devices woven into the numerous sonnets and dramas presents a blurring of these oh-so-sacred lines. Within Julius Caesar, there lies abounding cases of oxymoronic situations in which the balance of good and evil results in alteration. For example, within Brutus’ speech addressing the public following the assassination of Julius Caesar, the proper application of rhetorics expounds on Brutus’ ability to commit something purely evil while maintaining innocent intentions. Though he associates himself with the murder of the leader of Rome, Brutus bases his honesty on the genuine truth that it solely benefits his beloved country. The truly puzzling significance of corrupting the boundaries pertains to the ability of Brutus to use his power in any way he sees fit to justify murder and manipulate the multitudes. Brutus, “the noblest of Roman of all,” arguably epitomizes a man devoting anything to the success of his homeland whether it be his life or that of another’s (Shakespeare 3.2.76). Furthermore, it can be inferred that passion and commitment overwhelms moral codes and principles. However, before Brutus can settle his case, the interest of the crowd must favor him. Brutus wisely addresses the congregation as “Romans, countrymen, and lovers,” to
Open Document