How to Move the Crowd: The Persuasive, Powerful Rhetoric of Mark Antony

This lesson pertains to Act III of Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, specifically Mark Antony's funeral speech to the Romans following the death of Caesar.  Students complete a close reading of the scene, focusing on the use of rhetorical appeals and diction to convey meaning.  Students work in cooperative learning groups to dissect the speech and explore alternative ways in which Antony might have delivered the speech. Mark Antony's funeral oration in Caesar creates a platform for teachers to combine multiple standards (rhetoric/logic, critical listening, and writing). Analysis questions are included, and the suggested time allotment for analyzing the speech is two class periods.

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Understanding

Helpful Hints

Materials:

  • Folger edition of Romeo and Juliet
  • Handout: 15 Minute Romeo and Juliet
  • Romeo and Juliet prologue
  • Romeo and Juliet prologue cards

References

Contributors: