Answer:
In this speech, Cassius is trying to convince Brutus to join the conspiracy against Julius Caesar. He uses the idea that they were both born free and equal to Caesar to appeal to Brutus's sense of honor and pride. Cassius is suggesting that Caesar is no better than they are and that they should not bow down to him or allow him to become a dictator. He's essentially saying that they were born with the same rights and should not submit to Caesar's authority. This argument is meant to persuade Brutus to support their cause.
Step-by-step explanation:
The quote you're referring to is from William Shakespeare's play "Julius Caesar," and it is spoken by the character Cassius. In Act 1, Scene 2, Cassius says:
"I know that virtue to be in you, Brutus,
As well as I do know your outward favour.
Well, honour is the subject of my story.
I cannot tell what you and other men
Think of this life, but, for my single self,
I had as lief not be as live to be
In awe of such a thing as I myself.
I was born free as Caesar; so were you:
We both have fed as well, and we can both
Endure the winter's cold as well as he."