How Does Antony Use Ethos In Julius Caesar

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“Live, Brutus! Live! Live!” chants the mob after Brutus, murderer of Caesar, convinces them that killing their leader was best for Rome. In the play Julius Caesar, by William Shakespeare, Marc Antony, dearly beloved of Caesar, follows Brutus’ passionate appeal with his own speech. Antony is a genius when it comes to rhetorical ability and uses this to turn the tables against Brutus. He knows the mob is already on the side of the conspirators and must establish a strong connection in the form of ethos for them to listen to anything he says. He begins, “Friends, Romans, countrymen.” These three famous words are meant to make the crowd feel special because he is their friend, make them want to listen to him because he is a fellow Roman. Next, Antony assures them he comes “to bury Caesar, not to praise him.” With the crowd on Brutus’ side, they can only be glad to know that Antony has the same point of view as them. Marc Antony’s use of ethos builds a strong connection to prepare the audience for the rest of his address. …show more content…

Again, meant to make the people question Brutus, these questions are strategically placed throughout the second half of his speech. Previously, Brutus told the crowd that he killed Caesar because he was too ambitious, therefore attempting to justify the murder of Rome’s leader. Antony then goes to mention all the wonderful accomlishments Caeasr had that helped better Rome. Caesar gained lots of money for Rome, loved the poor, and was humble because he refused a crown and the title of king. After each point, Antony asks if these things were Caesar’s ambition. This is the use of rhetorical questions. The people and Antony know that Caesar was not what Brutus had said him to be and the crowd is ready to kill Brutus. Antony begins talking to a crowd who love Brutus and he quickly turns the tables to help him. His use devices show the rhetorical genius and ability of Marc

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