"Cleopatra, Antony, and Caesar"

What we have learned from the play about the conspirators' motives for assassinating Caesar is only part of the story. The other part deals with Caesar's relationship with the young queen, Cleopatra. Read the information on "Cleopatra, Antony, and Caesar," and answer the following questions:

Explain how Cleopatra seduced Caesar- and later, Antony. How did Caesar's involvement with her also cause his death? Why do you believe the conspirators were (or were not) justified in killing him? Explain.


Due: Thursday, Dec. 2

"Ay, me! How weak a thing the heart of a woman is!"

Evaluate the way Shakespeare treats women in the play? How much of a role do they serve in the play? How do they behave onstage? Is this a biased portrayal, or did he treat them objectively? Explain! 

"Help, ho! They murder Caesar!"

For bonus points, complete the Exit Slip for Act II, Sc. ii by Sunday at 9 p.m.

• Find at least 3examples of Caesar’s hubris–or excessive pride-- in Sc. 2.
• Explain how Caesar’s hubris affects his judgment in Sc. 2. [minimum 4 sentences]

Submit your response to me via email [gmail: mshoffler].

Homework, Nov. 23

Choose one of the following options, and respond in complete sentences:

- React to Portia's "act of courage" in Act II, Sc. 1. Were her actions melodramatic, or were they necessary? Why?

- Explain why you think Shakespeare did not include the conversation in which Brutus confesses his role in the conspiracy with Portia? Should he have included it in the play? Why?

****
If you received less than 70 % (23/34) on your Act I test, you must get your test signed by a parent/guardian (2 pts.), and correct each item marked wrong on a separate sheet of paper. For each question number, explain in a complete sentence why the answer choice is correct. You will receive half credit toward your test grade for each response you accurately correct. Due tomorrow, Nov. 24!

Welcome!

Thanks for visiting our web home! Come back often! We will begin using this site for assignments and deadlines, and later to do more collaborative work using the internet.

Forget to write down your homework? Make a mistake and want to double-check? Need help? Come here for the answer, and if it's not posted here, you can always send me an email!

Best,

Ms. H