Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will gain a deeper understanding of Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar," explore the themes of politics and oratory, and appreciate Marlon Brando's portrayal of Marc Antony. Additionally, the student will create a watercolor portrait inspired by the themes of subterfuge and rhetoric in the play.

Materials and Prep

• Watercolor paints and brushes
• Watercolor paper or thick drawing paper
• Pencil and eraser
• Access to a copy of "Julius Caesar" (text or online)
• Video clips of Marlon Brando’s performance as Marc Antony
• Notebook for jotting down thoughts and reflections

Before starting the lesson, ensure that the student has a basic understanding of the plot of "Julius Caesar" and is familiar with the character of Marc Antony. It may be helpful to watch a short summary or read a brief overview of the play.

Activities

• Character Analysis:

  Have the student choose a character from "Julius Caesar" and write a short character analysis. They should focus on the character's motivations, key quotes, and how they contribute to the theme of politics and betrayal in the play.

• Watch and Discuss:

  Watch clips of Marlon Brando's performance as Marc Antony. After watching, discuss how Brando's method acting brings depth to the character. What techniques does he use to convey emotion and persuasion?

• Watercolor Portrait:

  Using the themes of subterfuge and rhetoric, the student will create a watercolor portrait inspired by the character of Marc Antony. Encourage them to think about colors and imagery that represent the character's complex nature.

• Oratory Exercise:

  Have the student select a famous speech from "Julius Caesar," such as Marc Antony's funeral oration. They will practice delivering the speech, focusing on tone, pacing, and emotion. Discuss the rhetorical devices used in the speech.

Talking Points

• "Shakespeare's 'Julius Caesar' explores themes of power, betrayal, and the consequences of political ambition."
• "Marc Antony's character is a master of rhetoric; his ability to sway public opinion is a central theme of the play."
• "Marlon Brando’s portrayal of Marc Antony is iconic and showcases the power of method acting in capturing complex emotions."
• "Subterfuge is a key element in the play, as characters often hide their true intentions to achieve their goals."
• "Oratory is not just about speaking; it’s about persuasion and understanding the audience's emotions."