1. Brutus:
- Moral Conflict: Brutus is torn between his love and respect for Caesar and his concern for the republic's well-being. He grapples with the moral implications of assassinating Caesar.
- Conspiracy: Brutus joins a group of conspirators, including Cassius, to plan Caesar's assassination. He believes that removing Caesar is necessary to preserve Roman freedom and prevent a dictatorship.
- Justification: Brutus tries to justify the act by arguing that it is for the greater good of Rome and that Caesar's ambition threatens the republic.
2. Cassius:
- Political Manipulation: Cassius is the driving force behind the conspiracy. He manipulates Brutus's noble nature by playing on his fears and sense of duty to the republic.
- Rhetorical Influence: Cassius uses his eloquence and persuasive abilities to convince Brutus and other conspirators to join the plot against Caesar.
3. Mark Antony:
- Eulogy and Appeal: After Caesar's assassination, Mark Antony delivers a powerful speech at Caesar's funeral, swaying public opinion in favor of the conspirators.
- Mobilization: Antony manipulates the crowd by emphasizing Caesar's generosity, evoking sympathy and anger towards the conspirators.
4. Octavius Caesar (Augustus):
- Political Strategy: Octavius Caesar, Caesar's adopted son and heir, initially seems conciliatory towards the conspirators. He feigns support for Brutus and Cassius but secretly plans to avenge his father's death.
- Alliance and Betrayal: Octavius forms a political alliance with Mark Antony, revealing his true intentions and setting the stage for the conflict with Brutus and Cassius.
- Military Action: Octavius joins forces with Antony to face Brutus and Cassius in battle, ultimately defeating them at Philippi.
5. Conspirators (Casca, Cimber, Ligarius, Decius Brutus, Metellus Cimber):
- Assassination Attempt: The conspirators play various roles in executing the assassination plan. They surround Caesar in the Senate and stab him to death.
- Miscalculation: They believe that Caesar's death will solve the issue of his tyranny, but they underestimate the consequences and the ensuing power struggles.