Answer:
Brutus's Speech:
Purpose: Brutus, a senator and a conspirator in the assassination of Julius Caesar, speaks first. He addresses the crowd to explain the reasons behind Caesar's assassination and to justify the actions of the conspirators. His primary goal is to persuade the Roman citizens that Caesar's death was for the greater good of Rome and that it was a noble act.
Rhetorical Techniques: Brutus uses logic, reason, and appeals to the crowd's sense of honor and patriotism. He emphasizes that he loved Caesar but loved Rome more, and he paints Caesar as ambitious and a threat to the Roman Republic.
Tone: Brutus's speech is calm, composed, and respectful in tone.
Antony's Speech:
Purpose: Antony, Caesar's close friend and loyal supporter, delivers his speech as a response to Brutus. While seemingly agreeing with the conspirators, Antony's true purpose is to incite the crowd's anger and turn them against the conspirators.
Rhetorical Techniques: Antony uses irony, emotional appeals, and clever manipulation. He repeatedly calls Brutus and the conspirators "honorable" while subtly implying that they are anything but. He reads Caesar's will, revealing generous bequests to the Roman citizens, which stirs their emotions.
Tone: Antony's speech is emotionally charged and designed to provoke the crowd.
How Antony Reverses Sentiment:
He emphasizes Caesar's good qualities and the kindness he showed to the people, making the crowd sympathize with Caesar.
He uses dramatic pauses, body language, and tone to convey his genuine grief and anger.
Reading Caesar's will, which promises money and land to the citizens, provides a tangible reason for the crowd to turn against the conspirators.
Why Antony's Speech is More Convincing:
Emotional Appeal: Antony taps into the crowd's emotions, making them feel anger, sadness, and betrayal, which motivates them to seek revenge.
Use of Irony: Antony's clever use of irony and sarcasm undermines the credibility of Brutus and the conspirators while seeming to praise them.
Concrete Evidence: Reading Caesar's will and showing tangible benefits for the people's support provides a persuasive and practical reason for the crowd to rally behind Caesar's cause.