From Mourning to Mutiny: Successful Communication Strategy Used by Antony in Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar

Abstract

In the heart of ancient Rome, amidst the chaos and grief following Julius Caesar’s assassination, Marc Antony delivered a speech that would forever alter the course of history. This paper examines the effectiveness of Marc Antonius’s funeral oration in William Shakespeare’s play Julius Caesar through the lens of modern communication theory. By analysing Antony’s strategic approach, the paper highlights key elements of successful communication, including defining clear objectives, understanding the target audience, crafting a compelling message, and utilising appropriate communication channels and feedback mechanisms. Antony’s speech exemplifies in establishing a feedback mechanism, observing reactions, strategic pauses and rhetorical questions. The paper further explores Antony’s excellent use of Aristotle’s rhetorical appeals, ethos, pathos, and logos, to sway public opinion and incite action. Through a detailed examination of the speech’s impact on the Roman populace, the paper demonstrates the enduring relevance of rhetorical principles and communication strategies, emphasising the power of language to shape perceptions, influence beliefs, and inspire action, even centuries after its initial delivery.