The Tragedy of Julius Caesar Question
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According to the following passage and text aids from Act I, scene ii, what is the significance of saying that Caesar is “like a Colossus”?
[135] CASSIUS. Why, man, he doth bestride the narrow world
Like a Colossus(45), and we petty men
Walk under his huge legs and peep about
To find ourselves dishonorable(46) graves.
45.Colossus: gigantic statue of Apollo, a god of Greek and Roman mythology, which was set at the entrance to the harbor of Rhodes and was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
46.dishonorable: shameful (because they will not be of free men)
[135] CASSIUS. Why, man, he doth bestride the narrow world
Like a Colossus(45), and we petty men
Walk under his huge legs and peep about
To find ourselves dishonorable(46) graves.
45.Colossus: gigantic statue of Apollo, a god of Greek and Roman mythology, which was set at the entrance to the harbor of Rhodes and was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
46.dishonorable: shameful (because they will not be of free men)
- Cassius is suggesting that a statue of Caesar be made with huge features.
- Cassius is recognizing that Caesar may become a mythical figure, like Apollo.
- Cassius is comparing Caesar’s power and importance to that of the god Apollo.
- Cassius is suggesting that Caesar has the pettiness of most men.