From reading the play, we can see fear's power as a weapon. Characters use it as a means to persuade others, and internal fears often lead to characters' downfalls. In order to succeed, a person cannot dismiss or suppress fears, but cannot listen to fear too often lest it clouds his or her judgment. Julius Caesar shows us different extremes of handling fear in Brutus, Cassius, and Caesar, and the more moderate method of Mark Antony.
These strategies for handling fear can also be seen in real life. Take the example of four people who wish to learn how to ride a bike. One thinks too much of the risks that come with bike-riding, and never gets around to actually trying to ride a bike. Another is also afraid of the risks, and wears a helmet to reduce those risks, but is still fearful and wobbles on his bike, which leads to injury anyway. The third person dismisses the risks completely, and overconfidently rides helmetlesss, ending up seriously injured when a car runs him over when he unthinkingly gets in the way. The last person is aware of the risks, and takes precautions such as wearing a helmet. He is confident enough that he rides straight and true, without injury.
Main Characters
Brutus
Cassius
Julius Caesar
Mark Antony
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