Brutus is a man who has both his feet planted firmly on the ground to stand guard. But when a man falsely says the ground is shaking, Brutus is quick to leave his guard and believe because he is too trusting. Brutus, a major character in Shakespeare’s play Julius Caesar, is a noble man, loving of his fellow Romans and is too easily persuaded. He is a friend and follower of Caesar but is convinced in Act 1 by Cassius that they must put an end to Caesar’s reign.
Brutus is a patriotic middle aged man, who truly cares about the well being of his fellow people. “I do fear, the people, Choose Caesar for their king,” says Brutus. (Act 1 scene 2, 80) Despite Brutus’ friendship with Caesar, he much rather prefers Rome to remain a republic. He puts the masses before his own friendship. Brutus in return, is seen as trustworthy and reliable by the people. Indeed, Brutus is a noble man. Brutus says, “For let the gods so speed me as I love, the name of honor more than I fear death.” (act 1 scene 2, 90) He values honesty, fairness and balance. He is willing to lay his own life for what he believes. He is passionate and will do as much as what is needed so that what he believes is right will shine through. Brutus is easily swayed by Cassius in Act 1 scene 2. “Brutus and Caesar—what should be in that “Caesar”?” says the sly Cassius. (Act 2 scene 2, 140) After Cassius’ speech, Brutus considers the proposition of plotting against Caesar and does not shun the idea at all. Brutus is so willing to believe in his worthiness and Cassius’ call for action. He fails to truly listen to the Romans because he is too engrossed in doing what he believes is best for them.
The forever noble Brutus would do anything for the Roman people, leading to his being gullible. Cassius tricked the good intentioned Brutus, but it is not he who is at fault. Cassius merely set the trap for Brutus to fall into, but Brutus himself should have checked with the Roman people. In the end it is not the crier of the false earthquake that is to blame, but the gullible guard that left his post.
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