Purpose: Persuade the crowd to rethink their opinion of Caesar and question Brutus's accusations.
Key Themes
Legacy: The idea that the evil men do lives on after them, while good is often forgotten.
Rhetoric and Persuasion: Antony uses rhetorical skills to sway public opinion without directly opposing Brutus initially.
Honor and Ambition: Challenges Brutus's claim about Caesar's ambition by providing counter-examples of Caesar's actions.
Key Points
Opening Line: Antony asks for the audience's attention, setting a respectful tone.
Aim: Claims to come to bury Caesar, not to praise him, suggesting neutrality.
Good vs. Evil: Points out that people's evil deeds are remembered more than their good deeds.
Brutus's Claim: Repeatedly states that Brutus is honorable, contrasting his statements about Caesar's ambition with evidence of Caesar's generosity and empathy.
Evidence Against Ambition:
Caesar wept for the poor.
Refused the crown three times.
Brought wealth to Rome.
Rhetorical Strategies
Irony: Uses irony to subtly undermine Brutus's statements while appearing to agree.
Repetition: The phrase "Brutus is an honourable man" repeated to highlight doubt.
Emotional Appeal: Connects with the audience's memories of loving Caesar.
Logical Questions: Questions Brutus's logic indirectly, inviting the audience to draw their own conclusions.
Emotional Conclusion
Personal Loss: Expresses personal grief stating his heart is with Caesar, evoking empathy from the listeners.
Analysis
Antony's speech cleverly manipulates public perception without direct confrontation.
Highlights the power of persuasive speech and its role in shaping historical events.