William Shakespeare displayed many themes to demonstrate the actions of its characters in the play Julius Caesar. Antony and Cassius were known as people who took advantage of a situation, which made them classic examples of pragmatic opportunism. Misguided idealism was displayed in the play as Brutus costly flaw. Caesar had a precise method of ruling, which showed idealism based on pragmatic action. Caesar had worked to achieve a goal of making his leadership perfect; according to the conspirators it was fueled by ambition. William Shakespeare used distinctive examples in the play to illustrate pragmatic opportunism, misguided idealism and pragmatic action.
One of the themes used in the play of Julius Caesar is Pragmatic opportunism which was shown by Antony and Cassuis, which is taking advantage of a situation. Antony showed classic examples of pragmatic opportunism; first, when he persuaded the conspirators that he is on their side, gaining their clemency, and then to convince the plebeians of the conspirators discrimination against Caesar, to increase the plebeians support (III:ii: 75-109; 120-149; 167-194;). Cassuis is also a prime example of pragmatic opportunism, he mysteriously led Brutus to believe that Caesar has become too powerful and must die, and wins over Brutus, by sending him bogus letters claiming that the Roman people support the death of Caesar (I:ii:305).
Misguided idealism is another occurring theme, which was shown by Brutus. He believed that his decision was ethical, but in the future discovers that he was incorrect. Brutus misguided idealism was his worst virtue and his most deadly flaw. He ignores Cassiuss suggestion that the conspirators kill Antony as well as Caesar (II:i:60). Another example was when he ignored Cassiuss advice again and allowed Antony to speak at Caesars funeral (III: ii: 75-100). As a result, Brutus forfeits the ability of having the last word at the funeral and allows Antony to provoke the plebeians to get furious at Brutus and the other conspirators (III:ii: 195-205;227-255). Brutus later jeopardized his solid relationship with Cassius by accusing him saying that Cassius tactics are wrong (IV:iii: 1-5 ). In all of these occurrences, Brutus thought he was correct but his tragic flaw of misguided idealism caused him to make vital mistakes.
Another theme illustrated by Caesar is idealism based on pragmatic action; idealism is working to achieve goals of high standards or principle. Caesar always worked to make sure everything was perfect during his rule and always tried to improve his country. While leading the country, he did not take bribes and he insisted that flattery would not persuade him (III: i: 58-74). He also followed through with his belief, by crying with the poor (III s:ii: 93).
Throughout the play of Caesar, William Shakespeare used pragmatic opportunism, misguided idealism, and pragmatic action, to show his characters tragic flaws and poignant struggles. Brutus, Cassuis, Antony and Caesar all had costly characteristics that led them to an early death, or a life with struggles.
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