An Analysis of Julius Caesar: The Idea of Private Self Versus Public Self

In Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare, one of the main themes is the idea of public self and private self. When it comes to that theme, Caesar himself has some of the most varied personality traits as they appear existentially between the two concepts of self. His public self was that of a symbol and a savior, while his private self was a humble and meek man. In public, he was ambitious, but in private, he was an honorable man.

As a symbol, Caesar is multifaceted. To some he is a coward “Ye gods, it doth amaze me, A man of such a feeble temper should so get the start of the majestic world, and bear the palm alone.” (1.2.129). To others, he is an ambitious rival “You blocks, you stones, you worse than senseless things! O you hard hearts, you cruel men of Rome, Knew you not Pompey?” (1.1.39). To a few, he is even a friend “He was my friend, faithful and just to me: But Brutus says he was ambitious; And Brutus is an honourable man.” (3.2.91). However, to all he is a god “Why, man, he doth bestride the narrow world Like a Colossus; and we petty men Walk under his huge legs, and peep about To find ourselves dishonourable graves. Men at some time are masters of their fates: The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, But in ourselves, that we are underlings.” (1.2.135). He is a larger than life figure who, as the people perceive it, must be treated with the three possible human reactions. He must either be fought, followed, or fled. Now, the one that is applicable in the beginning of his situation are fight and follow. Rome decided to follow him. That is admirable enough, following a great leader is normal for a society. However, at a certain point, he gains too many followers. It is at this moment in his life that some decide i...

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...ding at the time of the late Roman Republic, so Caesar would have needed many private physicians to keep up his façade of virility. On that note, there is evidence to suggest that Caesar or his wife were infertile and Caesar himself hypoglycemic. This would have severely limited their chances of continuing the line, as per kingly duties.

Julius Caesar was many things. Publically, he was a patriot to the people. He was a god to his men, a savior by which all could identify. However, in private, he was a meek and sickly man. With many health problems, he nevertheless persevered. Whether he was truly ambitious or noble is unknown, but it is clear that Caesar was an honorable man.

Works Cited

Shakespeare, William, William Rosen, and Barbara Rosen. The Tragedy of Julius Caesar: With New Dramatic Criticism and an Updated Bibliography. New York: Penguin, 1987. Print.