The Tragedy of Julius Caesar, Part 6: Word Choice and Motif — Quiz
Question 7 • English Language Arts 10
Read the excerpt from act 5, scene 1, of Julius Caesar . [CASSIUS:] Two mighty eagles fell, and there they perched, Gorging and feeding from our soldiers’ hands; Who to Philippi here consorted us. This morning are they fled away and gone, And in their steads do ravens, crows, and kites Fly o’er our heads and downward look on us, As we were sickly prey. Their shadows seem A canopy most fatal, under which Our army lies ready to give up the ghost. MESSALA: Believe not so. CASSIUS: I but believe it partly; For I am fresh of spirit, and resolved To meet all perils very constantly. How does the use of the word fresh affect the meaning of the passage?
Answer
A
It reveals Cassius’s humble dedication to Caesar’s memory and the people of Rome.
B
It shows Cassius’s renewed respect for the armies of Lepidus.
C
It exposes Cassius’s feelings of regret for murdering Caesar.
D
It reveals Cassius’s sense of optimism in spite of the dark omens.
Explanation
Cassius says he is “fresh of spirit” and resolved to face danger steadily. Here, “fresh” suggests that his courage and determination remain strong, even after he describes the ominous birds as a sign of death. This reveals his optimism in spite of the dark omens, making D the correct choice.
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