Brutus’ Inability to Assume Political Leadership of the Conspiracy Against Julius Caesar In Julius Caesar, Shakespeare presents a broad range of historical personalities as complicated human beings in agonizing conflict with one another and with themselves. Literary authors A.L. Rowse once wrote, “No issue hinders a man’s leadership capabilities more than his confusing perception of honor, noble idealism, and inner self-conflict” (15). In his drama about power, nobility, assassination, and revenge, Shakespeare examines this particular issue best in his simple yet complex characterization of Brutus. Guided by conflicting emotions, Brutus, an idealistic man, is unable to assume political leadership of the conspiracy against Julius Caesar. However, although he ultimately participates in Caesar’s murder, he is neither a clear-cut hero or villain. On the contrary, it is the corruption and instability of human nature that eventually leads to his downfall. Brutus lacks several important ingredients in regard to assuming political leadership: confidence and ambition. He is also indecisive. His inner conflict is first revealed in a conversation with Cassius in which he responds to Cassius’ fear that his friend Brutus disapproves of him. Brutus assures Cassius that he is not angry with him, but with himself: Cassius, Be not deceived. If I have veiled my look, I turn the trouble of my countenance Merely upon myself. Vexed I am Of late with passions of some differenc...
