Julius Caesar, Act 4, Scene 3 summary
Act 4, Scene 3 of 18 · 12 min to read the scene
In Act 4, Scene 3, Brutus and Cassius quarrel over corruption and money, reconcile, and agree to march toward Philippi despite Cassius's objections. Brutus reveals Portia's death, receives reports of executions and enemy movements, and encounters Caesar's ghost while his servants sleep, bringing private grief and supernatural fear into the military preparations.
What happens
- Cassius protests Lucius Pella's punishment, while Brutus condemns corruption and accuses Cassius of withholding money for his soldiers.
- Cassius offers Brutus his dagger and bare chest, but their anger subsides and they renew their friendship.
- After dismissing an intrusive poet, Brutus tells Cassius that Portia dies by swallowing burning coals.
- Messala confirms enemy movements and executions, then reports Portia's death; Brutus presents himself as prepared to bear the loss.
- Brutus argues for marching to Philippi, and Cassius yields despite preferring to wait for the enemy.
- Caesar's ghost appears to Brutus alone; after it vanishes, Brutus sends orders for Cassius's troops to march ahead early.
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In this scene
What to notice
Brutus treats their present strength as a brief opportunity that demands action. This argument helps him secure Cassius's agreement to march.
Quick check
Why does Cassius initially prefer to remain where they are?
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