Who convinces Caesar to go to the Capitol on the ides of March?

• A. Brutus
• B. Cassius
• C. Decius
• D. Calpurnia

Answer: (C)

The moment tests how persuasive speech can steer a powerful figure by tapping into vanity and concern for public opinion. Decius recognizes Caesar’s pride and fear of appearing weak in the eyes of the people. He reframes Calpurnia’s ominous dream as a positive sign and flatters Caesar by telling him the Senate plans to crown him that very day. He argues that if Caesar stays away, the crowd will think he is reluctant to accept the honor, which would look like fear or ingratitude toward the people and their leaders. By presenting attendance at the Capitol as the smart, loyal move that will secure the honor and demonstrate strength, he manipulates Caesar’s desire for status and acceptance. That persuasive push is why Decius is the one who convinces him to go, setting the stage for the conspirators’ plan.