Why Cassius is The Greatest Manipulator

Therehave been many skilled manipulators who have shaped the course of events. One such individual is Cassius, a character in William Shakespeare's play "Julius Caesar." Cassius's ability to manipulate those around him, particularly his close ally Brutus, is unparalleled. By analyzing the text, it becomes evident how Cassius employs various tactics to sway Brutus to his side and ultimately manipulate him into participating in the conspiracy against Caesar. This essay will delve into the ways in which Cassius manipulates Brutus, highlighting the key instances in the text that showcase his exceptional skill in this regard.

One of the primary ways Cassius manipulates Brutus is through the power of persuasion. Cassius recognizes that Brutus is highly regarded and respected by the people of Rome. In Act I, Scene II, Cassius approaches Brutus and subtly appeals to his sense of honor and duty, stating, "Brutus, I do observe you now of late: I have not from your eyes that gentleness and show of love as I was wont to have." By implying that Brutus has changed and is no longer the honorable man he once was, Cassius plants a seed of doubt in Brutus's mind, making him question his own character.

Moreover, Cassius further manipulates Brutus by exploiting his love for Rome. In Act I, Scene II, Cassius says, "Well, Brutus, thou art noble; yet, I see, thy honorable metal may be wrought from that it is disposed." Here, Cassius suggests that Brutus's noble nature may be corrupted by outside influences if he does not take action against Caesar. By appealing to Brutus's patriotism, Cassius effectively manipulates him into considering the conspiracy.

Another tactic Cassius employs to manipulate Brutus is to play on his insecurities. Cassius understands that Brutus is a man of great integrity and constantly seeks to do what is right. In Act I, Scene II, Cassius states, "I have heard where many of the best respect in Rome, except immortal Caesar, speaking of Brutus and groaning underneath this age's yoke, have wished that noble Brutus had his eyes." By suggesting that the people of Rome hold Brutus in high esteem and wish for him to take action against Caesar, Cassius feeds into Brutus's desire to be seen as honorable and just.

Furthermore, Cassius manipulates Brutus by questioning his loyalty to his own ideals. In Act IV, Scene III, Cassius confronts Brutus, saying, "Thou hast described a hot friend cooling: ever note, Lucilius, when love begins to sicken and decay, it useth an enforced ceremony." Cassius implies that Brutus's friendship with Caesar has cooled, and he must take action before his loyalty fades completely. By preying on Brutus's fear of being seen as disloyal, Cassius masterfully manipulates him into joining the conspiracy.

Lastly, Cassius manipulates Brutus by exploiting his strong sense of duty. In Act I, Scene II, Cassius tries to convince Brutus that Caesar is unfit to rule by recounting a story of how Caesar struggled to swim alongside him during a swimming race. Cassius says, "And this man is now become a god, and Cassius is a wretched creature and must bend his body if Caesar carelessly but nod on him." By portraying Caesar as weak and unworthy of being a leader, Cassius appeals to Brutus's sense of duty to protect Rome from a potentially disastrous ruler.

Additionally, Cassius manipulates Brutus by making him believe that joining the conspiracy is the honorable and dutiful course of action. In Act I, Scene III, Cassius states, "Let noble Brutus be my scapegoat, then, for that which Brutus, as you know, was Caesar's angel." Cassius suggests that by assassinating Caesar, Brutus will be saving Rome from tyranny and fulfilling his duty as a noble Roman. This appeal to duty successfully manipulates Brutus into aligning with Cassius's cause.

In conclusion, Cassius's exceptional manipulation skills are evident throughout the play "Julius Caesar." By employing various tactics such as persuasion, playing on Brutus's insecurities, and exploiting his sense of duty, Cassius successfully manipulates Brutus into joining the conspiracy against Caesar. Cassius's ability to understand and manipulate human nature is unmatched, making him the greatest manipulator in the play. The instances discussed in this essay serve as a testament to Cassius's skill in manipulating Brutus and highlight the significant role he plays in shaping the events of the play. Studying Cassius's manipulation techniques can provide valuable insights into the power of persuasion and manipulation in human interactions.