Righteous Liberators or Murderous Assassins?

Panel Debate

Introduction

This is a criminal case brought by the Republic of Rome charging the defendant, Brutus, with murder in the first degree. The Republic claims that Brutus, with a premeditated intent to cause the death of Julius Caesar, caused his death on March 15, 44 B.C. Were the Senators who killed Julius Caesar on the floor of the Senate righteous saviors of the Republic and its traditional liberties, or Murderous Assassins who must be brought to justice?

Assigned Reading

⦿ Click Here to read an article about Julius Caesar's work as Dictator of Rome

⦿ Click Here to read sworn testimonies by the various key witnesses

⦿ Click Here to read the Days That Changed the World chapter

CHARGES: The Defendants, Marcus Junius Brutus and Gaius Cassius Longinus, is charged with murder in the first degree of Julius Caesar and conspiracy to destroy the government of Rome.

Primary Trial Roles

PROSECUTION

• Prosecution Attorneys (2)

• Julius Caesar’s Ghost

• Marc Antony

• Calpurnia, Wife of Julius Caesar

DEFENSE

• Defense Attorneys (2)

• Marcus Junius Brutus

• Gaius Cassius Longinus

• Senator Casca

• Protia, Wife of Brutus

• Soothsayer

Secondary Trial Roles

JURY

Written Assignment

Primary Trial Roles - Witnesses and Attorneys must type a 1-2 paragraph testimony that summarizes your role’s perspective on the charges using the evidence provided or from your research. This must be completed BEFORE the trial begins.

Secondary Trial Roles - Type 1-2 paragraphs that summarizes your perspective on the charges using the evidence provided or from your research. This must be completed BEFORE the trial begins. You will then add a list of your notes from the trial.

JURY - Type 1-2 paragraphs using witness testimony from the sworn testimonies by the various key witnesses that summarizes BOTH the Prosecution case and the Defense case. You must complete this background research BEFORE THE TRIAL, but you should have a neutral mindset during the trial.