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Internal And External Conflicts In Shakespeare's Julius Caesar

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William Shakespeare’s tragic play, Julius Caesar, is built around the conflict among a group of conspirators and the person they are conspiring against. Julius Caesar tells the story of the assassination and downfall of an influential leader in Ancient Rome, named Julius Caesar, and the people who are responsible for his death. The story depicts the conflicts that arise between the conspirators prior to Ceasar’s death. Shakespeare develops plot through internal and external conflict to illustrate Brutus’ clash between responsibility and personal morals. When it comes to internal struggles, Brutus is torn. From a personal perspective, he loves Caesar. and values his friendship. Also, Caesar has always been forgiving and friendly to Brutus. …show more content…

There is conflict between Brutus and Cassius, based on their differences in relationship with Caesar. Brutus, is attempting to make decisions based on what he believes will be the best for his family reputation, and the Republic, whilst not hurting Caesar at the same time. While, Cassius is driven by his selfish desires for power. The conspirators convince Brutus that Caesar wants to be king, which calls into question the basics and morals of the Republic. To quote the play, Caesar is "a serpent 's egg" and so he must be killed “in the shell.” The same point can be made in view of the Republic itself. Brutus feels that he needs to defend the Republic, because there is no one else to do so. Brutus also finds himself having to defend his actions to the citizens of the Republic. Brutus states in his speech at the funeral procession in honor of his dear friend turned enemy, Julius Ceasar, “If there be any in this assembly, any dear friend of Caesar 's, to him I say that Brutus ' love to Caesar was no less than his. If then that friend demand why Brutus rose against Caesar, this is my answer: not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more.”

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