Julius Caesar: (Annotated Edition)

Ambition is one of the central themes of Julius Caesar, as well as the reason Brutus cites for Caesar's assassination. In their jealousy of Caesar, however, the Roman conspirators reveal themselves to be among the most ambitious characters in the play. Questions of military might and political authority feature prominently as the Roman tribunes debate what gives one the right to rule--or to overthrow a ruler. Ultimately, the conspirators decide that Caesar's popularity and ambition pose a threat to the Roman Republic.