Introduction to The Tragedy of Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare

OVERVIEW

This is a brief (one period) intro to Julius Caesar. It concentrates mainly on historical information on Caesar and his times and career. A second emphasis is on the nature of the play as a tragedy (not a history) and Shakespeare's effort to stay within the bounds of well-known legend and history.

AUDIENCE AND PREREQUISITE SKILLS

This is intended for high school students preparatory to reading Julius Caesar (usually in 10th grade lit. books). Some knowledge of ancient Rome is useful, especially an appreciation of its importance in world history. Students should also be somewhat familiar with Shakespeare, having read at least one play prior to this one.

MATERIALS

Copies of the play (to be read in class or assigned to students).

PROCEDURE

• 1. Review 3 types of plays by Shakespeare, and discuss the nature of tragedy in the Elizabethan era.
• 2. Briefly discuss Roman Empire, and its importance to western culture, and the importance of Julius Caesar to the Romans.
• 3. Summarize Caesar's career, and his importance at the end of the Republic, and the founding of the Empire after his death.
• 4. Emphasize Shakespeare's need to include historical and legendary material, but to also create original dramatic material.
• 5. Suggest that despite the title, Caesar is not the tragic hero of the play. Students should consider who the main character and tragic hero of the play is as they read it.

EVALUATION

After reading the play, students will write a brief essay on which character they consider to be the tragic hero of the play, and why. They will be able to pass a short quiz on the historical Caesar and his times.

RESOURCES

Imperium Romanorum

Roman history

Classsics and Mediterranean Archaeology

text of Julius Caesar