Caesar's relationship with his wife Calpurnia can be described as being superstitious, as they both have insights into prophecy that align with the supernatural elements presented in the play. Caesar's excessive self-confidence causes him to believe that the omens are specifically meant for him, but he dismisses this idea to maintain his reputation as unshakeable. However, this leaves Caesar in a predicament where he is compelled to disregard the omens, even if they foreshadow his own death, as displaying fear would only lead to his downfall, according to his own perception of himself (Shakespeare 1). Despite this inner conflict, Caesar still demonstrates some remnants of masculine bravado as he chooses not to act cowardly and ventures out.
In the text, it is mentioned that Caesar's wife pleads with him to stay at home, as described by Gaines
...(280). However, Caesar is convinced and compelled to break his earlier agreement in order to create an excuse, because if he were to lie to the Senate, it would imply that they have power over him. Decius employs all his persuasive abilities to ensure that Caesar leaves the house. Caesar also informs Decius about the dream that Calpurnia had.
Decius assures Caesar that the dream is a positive omen and plays to Caesar's ego. He uses flattering language to interpret the blood spouting from Caesar's statue as a symbol of Rome's vitality. Decius manipulatively suggests that the Senate should be postponed until Caesar's wife has better dreams. He provokes Caesar by insinuating that he is afraid. Through his persuasive rhetoric and interpretation of the dream, Decius convinces Caesar to go to the Senate despite his wife's warning against it. Unbeknowns
to Caesar, he enters a room full of conspirators who plan to assassinate him. Decius deceived Caesar about the dream's meaning in order to coax him out of his house.
The concept that it is dishonorable for Caesar to be under the control of his wife highlights the masculinity of Roman culture.
Work cited
- Delaney, Bill. "Shakespeare's JULIUS CAESAR." Explicator 60.4 (2002): 188
- Gaines, Barry. "The Tragedy Of Romeo And Juliet/The Tragedy Of Julius Caesar/The Merchant Of Venice…." Shakespeare Quarterly 62.2 (2011): 279-281
- Shakespeare, William. Tragedy of Julius Caesar. First Avenue Editions, 2014. Internet resource.
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