Question

Read the excerpt from act 1, scene 2, of Julius Caesar. CASSIUS. To every new protester; if you know That I do fawn on men and hug them hard And after scandal them: or if you know That I profess myself in banqueting To all the rout: then hold me dangerous. [Flourish, and shout] Which statement best explains why Shakespeare has Cassius use the word fawn rather than a synonym such as flatter to describe his actions? Fawn is more negative, suggesting manipulation of another for personal gain. Fawn suggests a physical connection to other men, such as hugging them. Fawn is animal imagery suggesting obedience, begging, and affection. Fawn is more positive, suggesting that Cassius wants to give Brutus sound advice.

Answer 1

Answer:

Option A, Fawn is more negative, suggesting manipulation of another for personal gain.

Explanation:

The options that do not make sense:  Options B, C, D

The option that makes sense:  Option A, Fawn is more negative, suggesting manipulation of another for personal gain.

Answer: Option A, Fawn is more negative, suggesting manipulation of another for personal gain.

Answer 2

The correct answer is: Fawn is more negative, suggesting manipulation of another for personal gain.

Indeed, the word fawn is both a noun and a verb. The noun describes a young deer that is still unweaned, in other words, that still drinks its mother’s milk. Therefore, the word fawn already suggests animality and immaturity. Then, the verb to fawn is usually used for dogs that seek their master’s love. It is also used for servile courtesans that seek the affection of their king in order to get privileges and favors from them.

Shakespeare is clearly showing that Cassius is trying to manipulate Brutus into regicide not to save democracy but to become an aristocratic or monarchic ruler of the Roman people.