Julius Caesar Act II

Does Artemidorus plan to do?

Artemidorus waits in the street until Caesar passes by to hand him a letter that warns Caesar of the conspirators.

How does she prove her strength to Brutus?

She mentions that she is Cato's daughter and his wife. She also wounds herself in the thigh to show that she can bear the pain.

What does the soothsayer tell Portia?

The fortuneteller isn't sure of any danger, but he senses that some may occur.

Why does Metellus think it would be a good idea to ask Cicero to join the conspiracy?

Cicero is an elderly man and because of his age, the people will be easier to persuade. The conspirators' youth will be nothing compared to his seniority.

Why is Portia so nervous?

Portia hears sounds, and she knows about the conspiracy.

What does Portia want Lucius to do?

Portia wants Lucius to run to the Capitol and see how Brutus is doing and to see who stands next to Caesar.

Describe Calpurnia's dream.

Calpurnia dreams that Caesar's statue has 1oo spouts with blood pouring out of it while Romans smiled and washed their hands in his blood.

Why does Calpurnia want Caesar to stay home?

Calpurnia mentions all the bad signs that have happened, and she feels as if Caesar is in danger.

What does Brutus say about killing Marc Antony?

Brutus feels as if killing Marc Antony will make the plan too bloody and that they should be sacrificers, not butchers. He also says that there is no harm in Marc Antony; he is nothing without Caesar.

Why does Brutus disagree about taking an oath?

Brutus feels as if taking an oath is for cowards and for people who welcome injustice.

What is Brutus's internal conflict?

Brutus feels like he's going through a civil car. He's unsure of whether or not to join the conspiracy. Brutus has no personal cause to kill Caesar.

Why is Portia, Brutus's wife, worried about Brutus?

Brutus has not eaten, spoken, or slept. Brutus is not his usual self and does not confide in Portia; she wants to know his cause of grief.

Why does Brutus say they should not ask Cicero to join the conspiracy?

Brutus says that Cicero will not follow anything that other men start.

What reason does Cassius give for why Caesar might not come out of his house today?

Caesar has grown superstitious of late; the strange events may prevent Caesar from coming to the Capitol.

According to Brutus, why is it necessary that Caesar be killed?

Caesar must be killed for the general good of the citizens. Brutus thinks that all of the power will go to Caesar's mind and make him a tyrant.

How does Decius interpret Calpurnia's dream?

Decius believes the dream signifies that the people love Caesar.

What arguments does Decius use to change Caesar's mind about going to the Capitol?

Decius says the Senate will think that Caesar is afraid and the Senate will sarcastically comment that they gather again when Calpurnia has better dreams. Decius also says that the Senate may change their mind about crowning him if he does not show up.

By what method does Decius say he will use to get Caesar out of the house?

Decius will flatter Caesar and influence him to go to the Capitol.

What actions does Lucius perform that help the plot unfold?

Lucius brings Brutus the letter and opens the door to let the conspirators and Caius Ligarius in.