Themes, symbols, and motifs are valuable aspects of any literary work, and they add richness to stories. Part of the Common Core ELA standards is to introduce and explain these complex concepts. However, abstract ideas are often difficult for students to analyze without assistance. Using a storyboard, students can visually demonstrate their understanding of these concepts, and master analysis of literary elements. For best practices, see our supplementary article with specific lesson plan steps on setting up your classroom and activities to teach themes, symbols, and motifs.
In the classroom, students can track the rich themes and symbols that William Shakespeare uses throughout The Tragedy of Julius Caesar. They will analyze the instances of themes, symbols, and motifs as they appear in the play either while they read or after they've finished.
Throughout the play, characters try to persuade themselves and others of many things. Cassius convinces Brutus to join the conspiracy, and when Antony uses his eulogy to persuade the citizens of Rome that Caesar was cruelly assassinated.
At several points in the play, characters try to defy or adhere to traditional notions about their gender. Portia stabs herself to prove she is strong, despite being a woman, and that Brutus should include her in his plans. When Caesar faints, he lies to the crowd so that he doesn't look weak in the eyes of the public.
Caesar’s funeral is very interesting and concludes some foreshadowed events. One noticeable symbol is Caesar being killed at the base of Pompey’s statue. This is ironic; Pompey was the general Caesar defeated to win the crown. Other elements to note are the uses of verbal and situational irony, including the reading of his will. Caesar left land, money, and other items to the citizens of Rome which disprove the conspirators reasoning for killing him in the first place.
In Roman times, suicide was seen as a sign of strength and honor. At the end of the play, knowing that they are finished, the conspirators kill themselves to symbolically fulfill their promise to Rome. During Brutus’ oration, he told the citizens that if they did not agree with his actions, he would kill himself.
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Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that identifies recurring themes in Julius Caesar. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
Pick an illustration that clearly connects the unfamiliar with the abstract idea. One way to understand "theme" is to compare it to the central moral or lesson of a beloved film. Themes in literature let authors express more complex ideas in their stories, just way a superhero film may educate us about bravery and sacrifice.
Explain the idea in layman's terms that don't assume any prior understanding. Describe "imagery" as the use of words to conjure up clear pictures in the reader's head. similar to how hearing about a warm fire and crackling logs may make you feel comfortable and at ease.
Teachers can organize interesting and engaging activities that can acquire the attention of students and make learning easier for them. Activities such as role- playing, writing and drawing competitions, word games, etc.
Make the idea relevant by connecting it to feelings or experiences. When describing "suspense," be sure to clarify that it's similar to the strong anticipation of receiving a surprise gift; it's both thrilling and unsettling at the same time.
While discussing complex topics, teachers can give examples from real life or connect the concept to any event in a student’s life. Teachers can also give respectful examples from different cultures so that all the students feel included and comfortable during the discussion.
A major subject in the novel is betrayal, as seen in the assassinations of Caesar by individuals like Brutus and Cassius. The main character in the play “Julius Caesar” was a victim of betrayal and was deceived by Brutus whom he considered his friend. When Brutus learns that the conspirators' motivations weren't fully honorable, he too feels deceived.
Through the friendship between Brutus and Caesar, the theme of friendship is examined. Brutus and Caesar have a close connection, yet Brutus feels compelled to go against Caesar for the greater good, highlighting the tension between devotion to one's friends and one's country.
Characters like Cassius and Antony are portrayed to be manipulative. A superb display of manipulation, Antony's funeral address persuaded the Roman populace to turn against the conspirators. Cassius also manipulated Brutus to go against his own friend for the sake of the country.