Question

read the excerpt from act 4, scene 3, of the tragedy of julius caesar.
brutus. bear with me, good boy, i am much forgetful. canst thou hold up thy heavy eyes a while, and touch thy instrument a strain or two?
lucius. ay, my lord, ant please you.
brutus. it does, my boy. i trouble thee too much, but thou art willing.
lucius. it is my duty, sir.
brutus. i should not urge thy duty past thy might. i know young bloods look for a time of rest.
lucius. i have slept, my lord, already.
brutus. it was well done, and thou shalt sleep again. i will not hold thee long. if i do live, i will be good to thee.
what does this interaction reveal about brutuss character? select two options.

• he uses music to help him relax.
• he is cruel and selfish.
• he cares about those who serve him.
• he takes advantage of his servants.
• he puts his own needs before the needs of rome.

Explanation:

1. Analyze "He uses music to help him relax": Brutus asks Lucius to play music ("touch thy instrument a strain or two"), suggesting he wants to relax with music. This is supported by his request for a musical strain.
2. Analyze "He is cruel and selfish": The interaction shows Brutus being considerate (apologizing for troubling Lucius, acknowledging his need for rest), so this is incorrect.
3. Analyze "He cares about those who serve him": Brutus says "I trouble thee too much, but thou art willing", "I should not urge thy duty past thy might", and "I will be good to thee", showing concern for Lucius's well - being and limits. This is correct.
4. Analyze "He takes advantage of his servants": Brutus is apologetic and considerate, not taking advantage. So this is incorrect.
5. Analyze "He puts his own needs before the needs of Rome": The interaction is about his relationship with Lucius, not his relationship with Rome. So this is not supported.

Answer:

A. He uses music to help him relax.
C. He cares about those who serve him.