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Essay / Use of Rhetorical Appeals in Julius Caesar: Brutus versus...
In Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, Brutus and Antony attempt to persuade the audience of their position on Caesar's death. While Brutus explains that his death was necessary, Antony asserts that Caesar did not deserve his death. However, although Brutus has great credibility and exploits the emotional connection with his audience to some extent, he does not convey as powerful an argument as Antony, because he fails to provide enough factual evidence. Antony, on the other hand, uses logical argumentation with solid evidence, creates an emotional connection with his audience, and maintains credibility in order to support his own argument. Through this, it can be seen that Antony's use of appeals and rhetorical devices is superior to that of Brutus in his ability to persuade the Roman audience. Brutus effectively supports his argument by increasing and emphasizing its credibility. Because of the trust he already has with his audience, he is able to proclaim, “Believe me for my honor and respect my honor.” Being a well-respected man in Rome, the public has little, if any, reason to criticize Brutus's sincerity. Furthermore, he emphasizes his respect for Caesar by saying: “I mourn him; as he was lucky, I rejoice; as he was valiant, I honor him. By showing the audience their respect for the deceased man, it makes them believe in his opinion. Perhaps Brutus's most effective persuasive argument is his proclamation that he is prepared to die for Rome if need be. He announces it by saying: “I have the same dagger for me when it pleases my county to need my death. » This powerfully shows the public that everything he does, he does to please his country, and that he is in the middle of the paper where men are the beneficiaries. The physical evidence is very powerful because it is undeniable, but this will is particularly influential in supporting his argument because the public is aroused by zealous feelings for their fallen leader. Because Antony ingeniously uses a plethora of logical, emotional, and credible arguments, he overshadows Brutus' Speech, which lacks verifiable evidence. Antony also grasps the power of rhetorical devices more effectively than Brutus in conveying his message. This battle between their speeches is reflected in the outcome of their war, showing the superiority of Antony's ability to persuade. Although Brutus may have been an “honorable man,” it was Antony who proved most effective. Works Cited Shakespeare, William. “The Tragedy of Julius Caesar.” Elements of Literature: Kylene Beers. Austin: Holt, 2009. 842-963. Print.