Discussion Topic

Portia's demands of Brutus in "Julius Caesar."

Summary:

In "Julius Caesar," Portia demands that Brutus confide in her about his secretive actions. She insists on her right to know his troubles as his wife and shows her loyalty by wounding herself to prove her strength and trustworthiness.

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In Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar," what does Portia demand from Brutus in Act 2, Scene 1?

In act 2, scene 1, several of the conspirators arrive in the early hours of the morning on the Ides of March to persuade Brutus to join them and participate in assassinating Julius Caesar . After Brutus agrees to join the group of conspirators and instructs them to not kill Mark Antony, the senators leave and Portia enters the scene. Portia immediately addresses her husband's odd behavior and encourages him to explain what is on his mind. Portia is aware that something significant is disturbing her husband and begs to know what is bothering him. Brutus initially dismisses his wife's concerns and refuses to tell her what is on his mind. Portia responds by kneeling in front of Brutus and questioning him about the seven men who just visited their estate with their faces hidden. Portia then insists that her husband treat her with respect by confiding in her and...

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demonstrates her worthiness as a strong, resolute woman by mentioning that she is Cato’s daughter. She then proves her loyalty and promises to keep his secret by stabbing herself in the thigh. Although Brutus finally agrees to share what has been on his mind with Portia, Lucius knocks at the door with Ligarius and Brutus leaves before ever having a chance to confide in Portia.

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