1. Rivalry Between Caesar and Pompey: The play opens with a conversation between two Roman citizens discussing the upcoming triumphal parade of Julius Caesar, victorious from his conquest in Gaul. This conversation hints at the growing rivalry and tension between Caesar and Pompey, with the latter feeling overshadowed and jealous of Caesar's success and popularity.
2. Political Divisions and Loyalty: Throughout Act 1, we see the division among the Roman citizens regarding their loyalties. Some citizens, like Flavius and Marullus, are staunch supporters of Pompey and the Senate, while others are enthusiastic about Caesar's return and potential rise to power. This political divide sets the stage for future conflicts and alliances.
3. Commoners' Discontent and Superstitions: The inclusion of the commoners' scenes in Act 1 reveals their dissatisfaction with the current political climate. They feel disregarded and manipulated by the powerful elites, leading to unrest and superstitious beliefs. The soothsayer's warnings and the prophecy about the Ides of March foreshadow impending doom.
4. Brutus' Internal Conflict: One of the central conflicts in the play is Brutus' internal struggle. Brutus is torn between his love for Caesar and his duty to Rome. His soliloquy in Act 1, Scene 2, reveals his complex emotions and moral dilemma as he grapples with the decision to join the conspiracy against Caesar.
5. Cassius' Manipulation: Cassius plays a crucial role in inciting the conspiracy against Caesar. He manipulates Brutus by appealing to his sense of honor and loyalty to Rome. Cassius' scheming and calculated efforts further intensify the conflict and build momentum towards the assassination plot.
Overall, Act 1 of Julius Caesar establishes a clear divide between the supporters of Caesar and those loyal to the Senate, setting the stage for a clash between personal loyalties and political ambitions. The conflict is amplified by Brutus' internal struggle, the commoners' unrest, and Cassius' machinations, creating a volatile political landscape that will shape the course of the play.