Question

caesar. he reads much, he is a great observer, and he looks quite through the deeds of men. he loves no plays, ... he hears no music. seldom he smiles, and smiles in such a sort as if he mocked himself and scorned his spirit that could be moved to smile at anything. such men as he be never at heart’s ease whiles they behold a greater than themselves, and therefore are they very dangerous. –the tragedy of julius caesar, william shakespeare read the passage. why does caesar think that cassius is dangerous? ○ cassius never smiles. × cassius never pays attention. ○ cassius has a kind heart. ○ cassius is very close to caesar.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze the passage and each option:

• Option "Cassius never pays attention" is incorrect as the passage says he is a "great observer" who "looks quite through the deeds of men".
• Option "Cassius has a kind heart" is incorrect as the passage implies he is not at ease when seeing someone greater, suggesting envy, not kindness.
• Option "Cassius is very close to Caesar" is not supported by the passage's reasoning for danger.
• Option "Cassius never smiles" aligns with the passage: "Seldom he smiles, and smiles in such a sort... Such men as he... are very dangerous" as it shows he is not at heart's ease and may be envious, making him dangerous.

Answer:

A. Cassius never smiles.