Analyzing How Nuance Affects Meaning
How would changing the word slaughter to death affect the meaning of this passage?
The belligerent tone would be softened somewhat.
Which word best contributes to this meaning?
flatterers
Which is the meaning of the word compelled in this passage?
forced
How would the passage change if admirers were used in place of flatterers?
It would be more positive.
ANTONY. Villains, you did not so, when your vile daggers Hacked one another in the sides of Caesar: You showed your teeth like apes, and fawned like hounds,And bowed like bondmen, kissing Caesar's feet,Whilst damnèd Casca, like a cur, behind, Struck Caesar on the neck. O you flatterers! What is the meaning of this passage?
Antony shows contempt for Cassius and Brutus.
How would the meaning be affected if the word compelled were changed to encouraged?
It would imply that Cassius had a choice.
How would the meaning of this passage be affected if fawned were changed to cowered?
It would imply that the conspirators flattered Caesar mostly out of fear.