Bryan is a freelance writer who specializes in literature. Portia is Brutus's wife in Julius Caesar. She is worried about him and his intentions, and when Brutus . Portia In Julius Caesar Quotes Portia In Julius Caesar Quotes & Sayings Happy to read and share the best inspirational Portia In Julius Caesar quotes, sayings and quotations on Wise Famous Quotes. She prioritizes her husband over all other concerns. That I have, lady: if it will please Caesar He was my friend, faithful and just to me: Whose ransoms did the general coffers fill: He would embrace the means to come by it. Is Brutus sick? Richard Stearns I have a man's mind, but a woman's might. He tells her that he loves her and that she should go to bed. I am not well in health, and that is all. What do you think the relationship between Brutus and Portia is like? By signing up you agree to our terms and privacy policy. To dare the vile contagion of the night Dear my lord, It is not for your health thus to commit Portia and Brutus in the 2004 production of Julius Caesar. A woman that Lord Brutus took to wife: Which did incorporate and make us one, Why, know'st thou any harm's intended towards him? In 60 BC, Caesar, Crassus, and Pompey formed a political alliance that was to dominate Roman politics for several years. She immediately notices that something is troubling him and demands to know what is wrong. . on 2-49 accounts, Save 30% And could it work so much upon your shape A suicide prevention hotline can be found at the following link: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/. Teach your students to analyze literature like LitCharts does. He played a critical role in the events that led to the demise of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire. Please either update your browser to the newest version, or choose an alternative browser visit, And could it work so much upon your shape. "Cowards die many times before their deaths; The valiant never taste of death but once. Tell me your counsels, I will not disclose'em. How you told me that you loved me, and when we were married, you vowed that we'd be united so completely that we'd be the same person. I shall beseech him to befriend himself. My students love how organized the handouts are and enjoy tracking the themes as a class., Every teacher of literature should use these translations. I grant I am a woman; but withal Portia. PDF downloads of all 1747 LitCharts literature guides, and of every new one we publish. While this is probably her most interesting motive, she also challenges gender stereotypes as well. 233 Copy quote The greatest enemy will hide in the last place you would ever look. Portia. She is not simply playing the role of doting submissive wife. to start your free trial of SparkNotes Plus. Ay me, how weak a thing However, as a woman and a wife, she is expected to remain in the domestic sphere and not question her husband. SparkNotes Plus subscription is $4.99/month or $24.99/year as selected above. Loyalty Romans, countrymen, and lovers! Madam, not yet: I go to take my stand, What effect does this have? Brutus. Complete your free account to access notes and highlights. Creating notes and highlights requires a free LitCharts account. Synopsis: A soothsayer advises Caesar that the fifteenth of March will be a dangerous day for him. Believe me for mine honor. Why do you think she mentions them to Brutus? Get unlimited access to over 88,000 lessons. Stole from my bed: and yesternight, at supper, Don't forget to confirm subscription in your email. The free trial period is the first 7 days of your subscription. Our goal is to help you by delivering amazing quotes to bring inspiration, personal growth, love and happiness to your everyday life. At the festival, another senator named Cassius approaches Brutus and talks to him about Caesar's popularity and consolidation of power. Portia and Brutus in the 2017 production of Julius Caesar. About OSS, OPTIONS: Hide cue speeches Show full speeches (no cues) Show truncated speeches (no cues). Julius Caesar Please see the bottom of the page for full explanatory notes and helpful resources. She is extremely loyal to her husband and supports him in everything he does. I have made a strong proof of my constancy, giving myself a voluntary wound here, in the thigh: can I bear that with patience, and not my husband's secrets? Experience is the teacher of all things. Cowards die many times before their actual deaths. Please wait while we process your payment. In other words, when Portia asked Brutus what was wrong, he gave her dirty looks and waved her away with his hand. Where Calpurnia appeals to Caesar with dreams and omens, Portia argues her case with logic, recognizing this as the tactic most likely to convince Brutus to confide in her. One of the first times we hear from Portia, she begs Brutus to tell her what's bothering him. Come hither, fellow: which way hast thou been? I would have had thee there, and here again, Portia stabs herself in Act 2, Scene 1. Brutus admires her honour and integrity and says that he will share his secrets with her soon. (one code per order). Unfortunately, payments are no longer supported by Mastercard in your web browser
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June 30, 2023, SNPLUSROCKS20 The strange manner in which news of her death is delivered has been much debated. He played a critical role in the events that led to the demise of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire. Gave sign for me to leave you: so I did; Portia tries to force Brutus to confide his troubles, but he refuses to admit that something is wrong. She only speaks sixteen times in the play, but she makes good use of her lines and really adds an interesting dynamic. How close do you think Brutus is to telling Portia everything in this moment? Think you I am no stronger than my. Gaius Julius Caesar was a Roman statesman, general and notable author of Latin prose. Caesar: The ides of March are come. Fearing to strengthen that impatience Explore some images from past versions of Julius Caesar at the RSC. She then kneels and entreats Brutus to tell her what is wrong. She doesn't get a whole lot of stage time but we think she's an interesting figure, especially when it comes to the play's concern with gender dynamics. Cassius urges Brutus to oppose Caesar for fear that Caesar may become king. The heart of woman is! To walk unbraced and suck up the humours About OSS, OPTIONS: Show cue speeches Show full speeches. She has noticed a change in his behaviour and wants to know what is worrying him as it is stopping him from eating, talking or sleeping. Which seem'd too much enkindled, and withal What we wish, we readily believe, and what we ourselves think, we imagine others think also. She insists on sharing all that she can of his life. In these lines, Portia calls Brutus out on his lies. Brutus disregards the sick offense Portia identifies within him, however, and the events that follow ultimately lead to her suicide. After the other conspirators leave Brutus's home, his wife Portia comes looking for him. Think you I am no stronger than my sex, being so father'd, and so husbanded? Act 1, scene 3 Julius Caesar: Act 2, scene 1 Summary & Analysis New! Using the following steps, remember to look at it line by line and if youre looking at the scene for the first time dont worry if you dont understand everything at once. What are Flavius and Murellus angry about at the beginning of the play? Was assassinating Caesar the right decision? Which, by the right and virtue of my place, Sometimes it can end up there. The first part of the play leads to his death; the second portrays the consequences. If you must break the law, do it to seize power: in all other cases observe it. Why does Antony shake hands with the conspirators? For he went sickly forth: and take good note Prithee, listen well; What, is Brutus sick, Privacy policy. Enter PORTIA and LUCIUS. Dont have an account? Discount, Discount Code Set a huge mountain 'tween my heart and tongue! 129 lessons Portia and Brutus in the 2012 production of Julius Caesar. Refresh and try again. In 60 BC, Caesar, Crassus, and Pompey formed a political alliance that was to dominate Roman politics for several years. Portia and Brutus in the 1972 production of Julius Caesar. Their attempts to amass power through populist tactics were opposed by the conservative ruling class within the Roman Senate, among them Cato the Younger with the frequent support of Cicero. Like Caesars wife Calpurnia, Portias character reflects the disparity between public and private life. Create your account. Art thou here yet? Portia is relentless, and asks 'Think you I am no stronger than my sex, Being so father'd and so husbanded?' Soothsayer. She sends a messenger to the Senate to observe Brutus and Caesar and report back to her; she then speaks to the Soothsayer and asks whether he knows of any harm that is likely to come to Caesar. Struggling with distance learning? I feel like its a lifeline. With his officers, however, he epitomizes the Stoicism for which he is well known: "With meditating that she must die once, / I have the patience to endure it now." Regardless, the death of Portia is a grim reflection of Brutus's renunciation of his private life, and illustrates the consequences thereof. As the conversation continues, Brutus still tries to shield Portia from his plot against Caesar. His multiple attempts to lie to Portia compel her to accuse him of not loving her or . How hard it is for women to keep counsel! But, as it were, in sort or limitation, "Why, man, he doth bestride the narrow world Like a Colossus; and we petty men Walk under his huge legs, and peep about To find ourselves dishonourable graves." William Shakespeare, Julius Caesar tags: caesar , colossus , dishonor , giant , grave , influence , julius-caesar , persona , petty , poetry 531 likes Like I urged you further; then you scratch'd your head, 299 Copy quote If you must break the law, do it to seize power: in all other cases observe it. Ere I can tell thee what thou shouldst do there. Portia is Brutus' harlot, not his wife. Soothsayer. Thou hast some suit to Caesar, hast thou not? Help us by taking a short survey it will only take a few minutes and will help us make the Shakespeare Learning Zone even better for everyone. Portia. Julius Caesar 13 Likes Which death is preferably to every other? I heard a bustling rumour, like a fray, Come hither, fellow: which way hast thou been? Brutus, Caesar's friend and ally, fears that Caesar will become king, destroying the republic. Why does Caesars will have such a powerful impact on the plebeians? You are my true and honourable wife, If then that friend demand why Brutus rose against Caesar, this is my answer: not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more. The Romans held Britain from the invasion of Julius Caesar till their voluntary withdrawal from the island, A.D. 420,- that is, about five hundred years. She stabs herself in the leg to prove her own strength and constancy to Brutus. Program code and database 2003-2023 George Mason University. Caesar's victories in the Gallic Wars, completed by 51BC, extended Rome's territory to the English Channel and the Rhine. Detailed quotes explanations with page numbers for every important quote on the site. In her role as Brutus's wife, she exemplifies the conflict between Brutus's domestic and political life. Are they using prose or verse? All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners. No one is so brave that he is not disturbed by something unexpected. All texts are in the public domain and be used freely for any purpose. Of all the wonders that I yet have heard, It seems to me most strange that men should fear; Seeing that death, a . Portia is not necessarily "against" Caesar in the sense of directly participating in the assassination plot. As dear to me as are the ruddy drops Speeches (Lines) for Portia. Portia reminds Brutus of her loyalty. And so return to you, and nothing else? Julius Caesar Military, Bad Ass, Law 194 Copy quote I came, I saw, I conquered. Even a small match lit in a place of total darkness gives off a blinding light. Tell me your counsels, I will not disclose 'em: In 60 BC, Caesar, Crassus, and Pompey formed a political alliance that was to dominate Roman politics for several years. To add unto his sickness? She asks if he thinks it is proper that, "I should know no secrets/That appertain to you," and says he is treating her as "Brutus' harlot, not his wife.". Quotes By William Shakespeare. "The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars But in ourselves.". Even in death, Portia shows strength. To see him pass on to the Capitol. You are as important and precious to me as the blood that runs through my sad heart. She implies that Brutus does not think she is trustworthy and, therefore, does not value her as a wife. (Antony, Act 3, Scene 2) This was the most unkindest cut of all. O constancy, be strong upon my side, and is it physical for a group? what noise is that? Why does Brutus allow Antony to speak at Caesars funeral? "My students can't get enough of your charts and their results have gone through the roof." Stole from my bed: and yesternight, at supper, Brutus is wise, and, were he not in health, With his officers, however, he epitomizes the Stoicism for which he is well known: With meditating that she must die once, / I have the patience to endure it now. Regardless, the death of Portia is a grim reflection of Brutuss renunciation of his private life, and illustrates the consequences thereof. She says 'when I ask'd you what the matter was, / You stared upon me with ungentle looks.' Soothsayer: Aye, Caesar, but not gone. For the next 7 days, you'll have access to awesome PLUS stuff like AP English test prep, No Fear Shakespeare translations and audio, a note-taking tool, personalized dashboard, & much more! We'd love your help. That visit my sad heart. Cassius raises the possibility of assassinating Caesar. Characters in Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, Psychological Research & Experimental Design, All Teacher Certification Test Prep Courses, Calpurnia in Shakespeare's Julius Caesar: Character Traits & Analysis, Mark Antony in Julius Caesar: Character Analysis, Overview, Character of Brutus in Julius Caesar: Traits & Analysis, Character of Cassius in Julius Caesar: Traits & Analysis, Portia in Julius Caesar: Character Analysis & Quotes, Conspirators in Julius Caesar by Shakespeare, Julius Caesar Character List & Flashcards, CLEP Western Civilization I - Ancient Near East to 1648 Prep, ILTS English Language Arts (207): Test Practice and Study Guide, FTCE Middle Grades English 5-9 (014) Prep, SAT Subject Test World History: Practice and Study Guide, College English Literature: Help and Review, 9th Grade English: Homework Help Resource, Ambition Quotes in Julius Caesar: Meaning & Analysis, Working Scholars Bringing Tuition-Free College to the Community. Thank you! "Sooo much more helpful than SparkNotes. Caesar's victories in the Gallic Wars, completed by 51BC, extended Rome's territory to the English Channel and the Rhine. She is not content with Brutus excluding her from his political plans and is unhappy when she correctly believes that Brutus is keeping a secret from her. Create your account, 11 chapters | Brutus. In the handful of scenes in which she appears, Portia distances herself from womanhood, aligning herself with the gender conventions of the time and positioning herself as strong-willed in spite of what she and the other characters perceive as a weakness: Think you I am no stronger than my sex, / Being so fathered and so husbanded?. Advanced Search
She wants to play an active role in his life, rather than just quietly support him in his unknown quests. Her most daring move is when she stabs herself as a way of showing her husband that she would stay loyal to him no matter what. She also tells him that she knows he is bothered with something in his mind, and since she is his wife, she should know what it is. No, my Brutus; At the beginning of Act 2, Brutus agrees to participate in the assassination. She is proud of both of these, and is the definition of a stoic Roman woman. Are there any words or lines that really stand out? I don't believe you, my Brutus. Read the scene aloud. And when I ask'd you what the matter was, He played a critical role in the events that led to the demise of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire. If this were true, then should I know this secret. Chrome 114.0, so you may experience some difficulties using this website. English Courses / Julius Caesar: Help & Review Course / Characters in Shakespeare's Julius Caesar Chapter Portia in Julius Caesar: Character Analysis & Quotes - Quiz & Worksheet Video In other words, Portia wounded herself to show her physical strength and therefore, ability to handle mere information. She has a master's degree in education from UC Santa Barbara, as well as a multiple subject teaching credential. Portia. Am I yourself However, she questions his loyalty and his regard for her, because she knows he has a troubling secret he is not telling her. She knows something's up. You'll be billed after your free trial ends. Just as he agrees, they are interrupted by one of the assassins who wants to meet, and Brutus never gets the chance to tell his wife the truth. She is worried about him and his intentions, and when Brutus leaves for the Capitol intent on killing Caesar, she is a nervous wreck. Instant downloads of all 1747 LitChart PDFs Giving myself a voluntary wound In Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, Portia is Brutus's wife. Portia appeals to Brutus. She has noticed a change in his behaviour and wants to know what is worrying him as it is stopping him from eating, talking or sleeping. lessons in math, English, science, history, and more. Try refreshing the page, or contact customer support. He would embrace the means to come by it. Think you I am no stronger than my sex, Portia. Did you know you can highlight text to take a note? That you unfold to me, yourself, your half, Wed love to know what you think about the Shakespeare Learning Zone. By using this site you agree that we may store and access cookies on your device. Is Caesar yet gone to the Capitol? You'll be able to access your notes and highlights, make requests, and get updates on new titles. Someone you consider so close that you should both share your secrets? succeed. Members will be prompted to log in or create an account to redeem their group membership. Teacher Editions with classroom activities for all 1747 titles we cover. Central Idea Essay: Is a Republic Better Than a Monarchy? This does the trick, and Brutus agrees to tell her. Which sometime hath his hour with every man. In this play, the character Portia stabs herself in the thigh to show her husband, Brutus, that she could be trusted. Of your good pleasure? Want 100 or more? From the creators of SparkNotes, something better. Why, so I do. Messala also reports, Would not have made it through AP Literature without the printable PDFs. She also challenges stereotypes about women when she argues with Brutus that she should know his secrets. They're like having in-class notes for every discussion!, This is absolutely THE best teacher resource I have ever purchased. As a woman, she cannot participate in politics and, therefore, cannot directly support Brutus's political endeavors to the extent she would like. Being so father'd and so husbanded? $18.74/subscription + tax, Save 25% Stay not to answer me, but get thee gone: She serves as a symbol of correct intuition and morality, and her conversation with Brutus offers the audience a view of Brutuss lingering doubts about the plan to assassinate Caesar. Everything you need for every book you read. This lesson contains references to characters dying by suicide. Do you think she knows what is wrong with him? Privacy policy. Concordance
Portia is the daughter of Cato and the wife of Brutus. Portia. Have had to resort to you: for here have been (including. creating and saving your own notes as you read. As a rule, men worry more about what they can't see than about what they can. It can be very frustrating to be left in the dark, as the character Portia understands all too well in William Shakespeare's Julius Caesar. The way the content is organized and presented is seamlessly smooth, innovative, and comprehensive." Get LitCharts A + Julius Caesar Julius Caesar is a famous Roman general and husband to Calpurnia. Wed love to have you back! Portia defines herself in relation to her husband and father; shes the wife of Brutus, and the daughter of Cato, a Roman statesman. All rights reserved. You've ungently, Brutus, Stole from my bed: and yesternight, at supper, . on 50-99 accounts. Cry havoc and let slip the dogs of war. Detailed explanations, analysis, and citation info for every important quote on LitCharts. O Brutus, Website Terms and Conditions |
(Brutus, Act 3 Scene 2) Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears. She is saying that she is stronger than most women. (Act 2, Scene 1), "Within the bond of marriage, tell me, Brutus,/Is it excepted I should know no secrets/That appertain to you?" All Quotes She is proud of both of these, and is the definition of a stoic Roman woman. Julius Caesar Sports, Latin, Bad Ass Quoted in Suetonius, Lives of the Caesars. Here, in the thigh: can I bear that with patience. Brutus tries to convince Portia that he is simply feeling sick, but she knows better, and instead of just accepting his lie, she presses further. Renews July 7, 2023 Portia begs him to tell her when she says 'Make me acquainted with your cause of grief.' In 60 BC, Caesar, Crassus, and Pompey formed a political alliance that was to dominate Roman politics for several years. To unlock this lesson you must be a Study.com Member. Good Portia, go to bed. Portia. That Caesar will not grant. Next: Julius Caesar, Act 5, Scene 1 _____ Explanatory Notes for Act 4, Scene 3 From Julius Caesar. Take a look at the scene. Plays
Yes, bring me word, boy, if thy lord look well, Ace your assignments with our guide to Julius Caesar! Brutus is sensible and intelligent and if he was feeling ill he would accept help so he could be healthy again.
Complete your free account to request a guide. Run to the Capitol, and nothing else? Its like a teacher waved a magic wand and did the work for me. "Et tu, Brute?". Read our modern English translation of this scene. Shakespeare was a prolific playwright whose plays debuted in London in the 16th and 17th centuries and are still performed today. All texts are in the public domain and be used freely for any purpose. However, he insists that killing Caesar must be an honorable act, and therefore, they must not kill Mark Antony, Caesar's closest ally. I ought to know of: and, upon my knees, I should not need, if you were gentle Brutus. Advanced Search
They flatter him, by calling him strong, and they also point out that if Portia was good enough to be Brutus's wife, then she is good enough to know his secrets. William Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, a play published in 1599, portrays the assassination of Julius Caesar, and its aftermath. As the action begins, Rome prepares for Caesar's triumphal entrance. Brutus, my lord! Hear me for my cause, and be silent that you may hear. Portia is the daughter of Cato and the wife of Brutus. How many questions does Portia ask Brutus and why do you think she doesnt wait for a response, or answers them herself? Portia and Brutus in the 1968 production of Julius Caesar. Plays
Which production do you prefer and which best shows the relationship between the two characters in this scene? Portia plays an important role in Julius Caesar, because she is Brutus's strongest tether to the domestic sphere and represents his domestic life. I charm you, by my once commended beauty. 221 matching entries found. Dwell I but in the suburbs She does not let that stop her from behaving with determination and honor. He has worked as an English instructor, editor and writer for the past 10 years. Enrolling in a course lets you earn progress by passing quizzes and exams. Next Act 2, scene 2 Themes and Colors Key Summary Analysis Brutus, unable to sleep, paces in his orchard. This insistence reveals how determined Portia is. Why does Caesar refuse the crown when Antony offers it to him? Further, she explains, 'with an angry wafture of your hand, / Gave sign for me to leave you.' Fair speechless messages When bassanio chooses the right casket, what does portia say What is mine, to you is yours When portia reads shylocks 'bond' what does she point out This bond doth give no jot of blood When portia is disguised as Balthazar what does she ask bassanio I'll take this ring from you In Julius Caesar, Portia is Brutus's wife. For once upon a raw and gusty day, The troubled Tiber chafing with her shores, Caesar said to me, "Darest thou, Cassius, now Leap in with me into this angry flood And swim to yonder point?" Upon the word, Accoutred as I was, I plungd in And bade him follow. It will not let you eat nor talk nor sleep. Your subscription will continue automatically once the free trial period is over. Portia says 'No, my Brutus; / You have some sick offence within your mind, / Which, by the right and virtue of my place, / I ought to know of.'. She is very loyal to Brutus and holds him in the highest regard. Portia Quotes in Julius Caesar The Julius Caesar quotes below are all either spoken by Portia or refer to Portia. It is better to create than to learn! Even though she only gets 16 chances to speak, Portia adds a fascinating dynamic to Julius Caesar. Thou hast some suit to Caesar, hast thou not? However, she is loyal to Brutus and supports his actions, up to and including the assassination of Caesar. Remember how you found me beautiful when we met? Though she is portrayed as loving and fiercely loyal throughout the play, she is also portrayed as somewhat dissatisfied with the constraints and expectations she experiences in her role as a woman and as a wife. Throughout Act 1, Cassius tries to win Brutus over to his cause, with help from the other conspirators. Even from darkness. Say I am merry: come to me again, I should not need, if you were gentle Brutus. Portia is not necessarily "against" Caesar in the sense of directly participating in the assassination plot. Concordance
I beg you listen. Save over 50% with a SparkNotes PLUS Annual Plan! And since you know you cannot see yourself, There are no tricks in plain and simple faith., Bid me run, and I will strive with things impossible., La culpa, no est en nuestras estrellas, sino en nosotros mismos, que consentimos en ser inferiores., As I love the name of honour more than I fear death., As he was valiant, I honor him. Brutus decides to participate in the assassination of Caesar, and the other conspirators arrive to plan the assassination. You've ungently, Brutus, Sonnets
In the first, you could discuss Portia as a wife to Brutus; in the second, you could describe Portia as a Stoic, and in the . You have some sick offence within your mind, Poems
(Act 2, Scene 1). Soothsayer. Hark, boy! Welcome back. Error rating book. I must go in. They completely demystify Shakespeare. Why dost thou stay? (3.2.14-28) As a final attempt to show her husband that she would not tell anyone his secret, she proves herself by 'Giving myself a voluntary wound / Here, in the thigh: can I bear that with patience, / And not my husband's secrets?' Am I only on the edges of your life and not at the centre of it? Synopsis: Caesar's assassination is just the halfway point of Julius Caesar. Yes, bring me word, boy, if thy lord look well, Sonnets
To unlock this lesson you must be a Study.com Member. Take a look at an extract from this scene here. Refine any search. Portia and Brutus in the 1991 production of Julius Caesar. Ay me, how weak a thing When civil war breaks out and she realizes the strength of Brutuss enemy, she commits suicide. What Caesar doth, what suitors press to him. In the end, Portia dies by suicide after Brutus's long absence, because it seems likely that Brutus and his army will be defeated by Antony and Octavius. I beg you, by my once-praised beauty, by all your vows of love and by the legal vow of marriage, that made the two of us one person, tell me why you are troubled. Highly intelligent, she cannot be fobbed off by Brutus's excuses, as she knows him too well. The original text plus a side-by-side modern translation of. PDFs of modern translations of every Shakespeare play and poem. To walk unbraced and suck up the humours . She does not stab herself or cut her wrists, but swallows hot coals. As a member, you'll also get unlimited access to over 88,000 Instant PDF downloads. Purchasing Subscribe now. Men are nearly always willing to believe what they wish. Please consider making a small donation to help keep this site free. Have you ever had to convince someone to confide in you? Prithee, listen well; Portia. Brutus admits when hes alone with Cassius that the loss of his wife has left him full of sorrow. With lusty sinews, throwing it aside And stemming it with hearts of controversy. Our, "Sooo much more helpful thanSparkNotes. These lines have multiple effects on Brutus. In this scene, Portia is worried that her husband Brutus is out of bed and comes to find him. Thanks for creating a SparkNotes account! You can view our. Act 2, Scene 1 occurs at Brutus's house in the middle of the night. Hoping it was but an effect of humour, If it be no more, Portia presses him, saying, "If this were true, then I should know this secret."