Question

BRUTUS: . . . I say that Brutus’ love to Caesar was no less than his. 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. . . . As Caesar loved me, I weep for him. As he was fortunate, I rejoice at it. 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. Which statement summarizes the main idea of Brutus’ speech?

Answer 1

The main idea of Brutus' speech is that he killed Caesar for the good of Rome.

He states that he loved Caesar, but he loves Rome more. Because Caesar became too ambitious, he needed to be killed. He then challenges the crowd by saying if anyone thinks what he did was wrong then they do not love Rome.