Which statement best shows Brutus’s message that Caesar’s death was best for Rome? Julius Caesar
by William Shakespeare
(excerpt from Act 3, Scene II)

In the prior acts of Julius Caesar, noble Romans have conspired against their leader, Caesar, and assassinated him. In this scene, Brutus, a well-respected man and longtime friend of Caesar, addresses the people of Rome to explain his participation in the act.

BRUTUS: If there be any in this assembly, any dear friend of
Caesar’s, to him I say that Brutus' love to Caesar
was no less than his. If then that friend demand
why Brutus rose against Caesar, this is my
--Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved
Rome more.

Had you rather Caesar were living and
die all slaves, than that Caesar were dead, to live
all free men? As Caesar loved me, I weep for him;
as he was fortunate, I rejoice at it; as he was
valiant, I honor him: but, as he was ambitious, I
slew him. There is tears for his love, joy for his
fortune, honor for his valor, and death for his
ambition.

Who is here so base that would be a
bondman? If any, speak—for him have I offended.
Who is here so rude that would not be a Roman? If
any, speak—for him have I offended. Who is here so
vile that will not love his country? If any, speak—
for him have I offended. I pause for a reply.