Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will have a deeper understanding of Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar," the character of Mark Antony, the influence of Marlon Brando's portrayal, and how elements of rhetoric and subterfuge play a crucial role in politics and oratory. The student will also create a watercolor portrait inspired by the themes discussed.

Materials and Prep

• Watercolor paints and brushes
• Watercolor paper
• Pencil and eraser
• Printed excerpts from "Julius Caesar" (specifically Antony's speeches)
• Access to a video clip of Marlon Brando's performance (if available)
• A quiet space for reflection and creativity

Before the lesson, familiarize yourself with key scenes from "Julius Caesar," especially the funeral scene where Mark Antony delivers his famous speech. If possible, watch a clip of Marlon Brando's portrayal to see his method acting and use of gesture.

Activities

• Reading and Analyzing Antony's Speech:

  Read aloud Antony's speech from "Julius Caesar" and discuss its rhetorical strategies. Identify key phrases that evoke emotion and persuade the audience. Analyze how Antony uses subterfuge to turn the crowd against Brutus.

• Film Analysis:

  Watch a clip of Marlon Brando's performance as Mark Antony. Focus on his gestures, tone, and delivery. Discuss how these elements enhance the impact of the speech and the character's motivations.

• Watercolor Portrait Creation:

  Create a watercolor portrait inspired by the themes of power and betrayal in "Julius Caesar." Encourage the student to think about how to represent Antony’s character visually through colors and shapes.

• Rhetorical Device Practice:

  Have the student write their own short speech using at least three rhetorical devices (such as ethos, pathos, and logos). They can choose a topic they are passionate about and present it to an audience (family members or friends).

Talking Points

• "In Antony's speech, we see the power of rhetoric. He uses emotional appeals to sway the crowd. Can you identify any specific phrases that stand out?"
• "Marlon Brando brought a unique interpretation to Antony. Notice how his physical gestures convey meaning beyond words. How do you think this affects the audience?"
• "Subterfuge is a key theme in 'Julius Caesar.' How does Antony manipulate the truth to achieve his goals?"
• "Consider the political context of the play. What can we learn about leadership and persuasion from Antony's actions?"
• "Creating art can be a powerful way to express complex themes. How does your watercolor portrait reflect the emotions and conflicts in the story?"