Quote 25
CASSIUS
Let's reason with the worst that may befall.
If we do lose this battle, then is this
The very last time we shall speak together.
What are you then determinèd to do?
BRUTUS
Even by the rule of that philosophy
By which I did blame Cato for the death
Which he did give himself (I know not how,
But I do find it cowardly and vile,
For fear of what might fall, so to prevent
The time of life), arming myself with patience
To stay the providence of some high powers
That govern us below.
CASSIUS
Then, if we lose this battle,
You are contented to be led in triumph
Thorough the streets of Rome?
BRUTUS
No, Cassius, no. Think not, thou noble Roman,
That ever Brutus will go bound to Rome.
He bears too great a mind. But this same day
Must end that work the ides of March begun.
And whether we shall meet again, I know not. (5.1.106-125)
Honor trumps everything else here. Though Brutus would not gladly kill himself (as his father-in-law Cato did when faced with defeat), he reneges on his feeling that suicide is cowardly when he faces the alternative. Anything is preferable to the shame and dishonor of returning to Rome in chains. Brutus fought to make Rome free, and so he'll go to his death free rather than return to Rome by force.