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In Shakespeare's play Julius Caesar, the question of who the tragic hero is—Caesar or Brutus— is a subject of much debate among scholars and readers. Both characters possess qualities of a tragic hero, such as nobility, flaws, and a downfall. However, Brutus is the true tragic hero of the play because exudes greatness and tragic flaws. Get homework help from fmnn86[at]gm ail. c om. Guaranteed help to score maximum points any time.
A tragic hero is a character of high stature who possesses admirable qualities. However, a he or she may also harbor a tragic flaw, or hamartia, which ultimately leads to their downfall. Caesar, the ambitious and powerful leader, exhibits qualities of greatness. He is revered by the masses, holds immense power, and is the driving force behind the conspiracy that ultimately leads to his assassination. However, Caesar lacks a personal flaw that directly contributes to his downfall. While his ambition and arrogance may be perceived as flaws, they are not substantial or tragic enough to evoke a sense of sympathy or catharsis in the audience.
On the other hand, Brutus, a noble and honorable man, perfectly fits the mold of a tragic hero. His tragic flaw lies in his idealism and naivety. He is easily swayed by the manipulative Cassius into believing that Caesar's ambition threatens the Roman Republic. Brutus genuinely believes that killing Caesar is a noble act of self-sacrifice for the greater good of Rome. This internal conflict between his loyalty to Rome and his loyalty to Caesar forms the basis of his tragic flaw.
Furthermore, Brutus's downfall is deeply rooted in his own actions and decisions. He underestimates the repercussions of the assassination and fails to anticipate the chaos that ensues. This becomes evident when he addresses the plebeians after the assassination. He assumes that they will understand his intentions and support his cause. However, his misguided belief in the righteousness of his actions leads to public unrest and paves the way for the rise of Mark Antony and Octavius.
Additionally, Brutus displays a sense of tragic pathos and self-awareness that further strengthens his position as the tragic hero. He is tormented by guilt and internal conflict, realizing the magnitude of his actions and the consequences they have wrought. In Act V, Scene V, just before taking his own life, Brutus poignantly acknowledges, "Caesar, now be still. I killed not thee with half so good a will." This remorseful and reflective tone showcases Brutus's tragic realization and his ultimate acceptance of his fate.
In conclusion, Caesar possesses qualities of greatness but Brutus is the true tragic hero of Julius Caesar. His idealism, naivety, and ultimate downfall caused by his own actions make him a character that elicits both sympathy and catharsis from the audience. Brutus's tragic flaw and self-awareness contribute to the emotional impact of the play. They highlight his status as the central figure around whom the tragedy unfolds.
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