Dangers Of Civil Disobedience In Julius Caesar

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Recommended: The life and works of William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare, arguably the best playwright in history, lived during the Elizabethan Era and wrote Julius Caesar from 1599 to 1608. Many historians believe that it was Shakespeare’s worry for the future of England that caused him to write Julius Caesar. Queen Elizabeth I’s health was declining; however, she refused to name an heir, which caused many citizens to fear civil war. During these years of turmoil for Britain, Shakespeare wrote a play based on historical facts about political intrigue, succession, and civil war in ancient Rome that could be considered a warning to his own time (“About the Play: Julius Caesar”). Julius Caesar should serve as a warning to modern society as well. The lessons of the dangers of absolute power, the use of speech to manipulate society, and the dangers of civil disobedience are still relevant to today’s society. One of the major lessons of Julius Caesar is Shakespeare’s …show more content…

The conspirators justify committing murder by claiming that they did it out of “love for Rome” or because it was the “noble” thing to do. Caesar is assassinated by his most trusted companion, Brutus, because Brutus could not see another solution. He believed that the only way to save Rome was by killing Caesar. However, Brutus’ actions do not solve the problem or save Rome, which is thrown into riot, turmoil, and even civil war. In fact, his actions result in the death of many innocent people. Today, we see the dangers of civil disobedience through citizens’ disregard for authority. We seem to have forgotten this lesson. Society has a general lack of respect for anyone in a position of power or authority whether it be a teacher, police officer, or the president (“Why Julius Caesar Speaks to Politics Today. With or Without Trump”). Julius Caesar should be a warning to those who choose to try to take matters into their own

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