The Tragedy of Julius Caesar, Part 6: Word Choice and Motif
Question 9 • *CR English 3 S2 [E3060OX]
Read the excerpt from act 5, scene 1, of Julius Caesar.OCTAVIUS. Come, come, the cause. If arguing make us sweat, The proof of it will turn to redder drops. Look, I draw a sword against conspirators. When think you that the sword goes up again? Never, till Caesar’s three and thirty wounds Be well avenged, or till another Caesar Have added slaughter to the sword of traitors.
Answer
A
The blood motif suggests that revenge will lead to violence and death.
B
The letter motif reminds Octavius of what has happened in Rome since Caesar’s death.
C
The sword motif suggests that Ocatavius and Antony will both soon be assassinated.
D
The flattery motif suggests that the conspirators will eventually turn on one another.
Explanation
Octavius says the argument will turn to “redder drops,” meaning blood, and vows not to put away his sword until Caesar’s wounds are avenged. These images connect blood and violence with the revenge he plans, so the blood motif suggests revenge will lead to more violence and death. The excerpt does not mention letters, flattery, or Octavius and Antony being assassinated.
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