Use of Rhetorical Appeals in Julius Caesar: Brutus vs Antony

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In Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, Brutus and Antony attempt to persuade the audience of their position on the death of Caesar. While Brutus explains that his death was necessary, Antony claims that Caesar was not deserving of his demise. However, though Brutus does have ample credibility and taps into the emotional link with his audience to some extent, he does not convey as powerful of an argument as Antony, as he fails to provide sufficient factual evidence. Antony, on the other hand, utilizes logical argumentation with solid evidence, creates an emotional connection with his audience, and maintains credibility in order to support his own argument. Through this, it can be seen that Antony’s use of rhetorical appeals and devices is superior to Brutus’s in its ability to persuade the Roman audience.

Brutus does back up his argument effectively by augmenting and emphasizing his credibility. With his already existing trust with his audience, he is able to proclaim, “Believe me for mine honor, and have respect to mine honor.” Being a well-respected man of Rome, the audience does not have much reason, if at all, to criticize the sincerity of Brutus. Furthermore, he stresses his respect for Caesar, saying, “I weep for him; as he was fortunate, I rejoice at it; as he was valiant, I honor him.” By showing the audience his respect for the deceased man, it influences them to believe in his voiced opinion. Arguably Brutus’s most effective persuasive argument is his proclamation that he is willing to die for Rome if need it be. He announces this by saying, “I have the same dagger for myself when it shall please my county to need my death.” This powerfully shows the audience that everything he does, he does to please his country, and that he h...

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...omans are beneficiaries of. Physical evidence is very powerful as it is undeniable, but this will is especially influential in supporting his argument because the audience is aroused with zealous feelings for their fallen ruler.

Because Antony ingeniously uses a plethora of logical, emotional, and credible arguments, he outshines Brutus’s speech, which lacks in verifiable evidence. Antony also seizes the power of rhetorical devices in a more effective way than Brutus to convey his message. This battle between their speeches reflects in the outcome of their war, showing the superiority of Antony’s persuasive ability. While Brutus may have been an “honorable man,” it was Antony that proved to be the more effective one.

Works Cited

Shakespeare, William. “The Tragedy of Julius Caesar.” Elements of Literature: Kylene Beers. Austin: Holt, 2009. 842-963. Print.

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