What does Brutus say in this excerpt from Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar in his attempt to show the actions of the conspirators were patriotic?
BRUTUS
If then that friend demand why
Brutus rose against Caesar, this is my answer: not that
I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more. Had you
rather Caesar were living and die all slaves, than that
Caesar were dead, to live all free men? As Caesar loved
me, I weep for him. As he was fortunate, I rejoice at
1 As he was valiant, I honor him. But, as he was
ambitious, I slew him. There is tears for his love, joy
for his fortune, honor for his valor, and death for his
ambition. Who is here so base that would be a bondman?
If any, speak—for him have I offended. Who is here so
rude that would not be a Roman? If any, speak—for him
have I offended. Who is here so vile that will not love
his country? If any, speak—for him have I offended. I
pause for a reply. (3.2.20-34)
Group of answer choices
People should be thankful to the conspirators that Caesar's death was quick.
Caesar was not ambitious enough to lead Rome against its enemies.
Rome is better off without Caesar, who wanted to turn all of Rome into his private city.
Caesar had to die because all Romans would be enslaved under him.