How does Cassius persuade Brutus?

• A. a personal threat
• B. forged letters from citizens
• C. a public speech
• D. a dream about Brutus

Answer: (B)

Cassius uses social proof and Brutus’s sense of public duty to pull him into the plot. He arranges forged letters that appear to come from Roman citizens, voicing worry about Caesar’s rise and urging Brutus to act to preserve the republic. These letters give Brutus a believable, personalized justification for joining the conspiracy: it looks like the people themselves want him to intervene, not that he’s acting out of private motive. Brutus cares deeply about honor and the welfare of Rome, so the idea that he’s responding to widespread concern—presented as genuine citizen sentiment—fits his character and moves him to take action.

This approach works better than a threat, a public speech, or a dream because it speaks directly to Brutus’s values with what seems like authentic public backing. A threat would push him toward loyalty to Caesar or fear; a public speech might persuade others but not tie Brutus’s decisions to his own reputation as Rome’s guardian; a dream is unreliable and would not supply the clear, socially validated rationale that the forged letters provide.