How we cite our quotes: (Act.Scene.Line). Line numbers correspond to the Riverside edition.
Quote #1
CASSIUS
'Tis just,
And it is very much lamented, Brutus,
That you have no such mirrors as will turn
Your hidden worthiness into your eye,
That you might see your shadow. I have heard
Where many of the best respect in Rome,
Except immortal Caesar, speaking of Brutus
And groaning underneath this age's yoke,
Have wished that noble Brutus had his eyes.
BRUTUS
Into what dangers would you lead me, Cassius,
That you would have me seek into myself
For that which is not in me? (1.2.60-71)
Cassius sure is smarmy, don't you think? It's obvious he wants Brutus to join the conspiracy against Caesar, but instead of coming right out and asking him, he tries to stroke Brutus' ego by suggesting that the people are clamoring for Brutus to lead Rome.
Quote #2
CASSIUS
Men at some time are masters of their fates.
The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars,
But in ourselves that we are underlings.
'Brutus' and 'Caesar'—what should be in that
'Caesar'?
Why should that name be sounded more than
yours?
Write them together, yours is as fair a name;
Sound them, it doth become the mouth as well;
Weigh them, it is as heavy; conjure with 'em,
'Brutus' will start a spirit as soon as 'Caesar.' (1.2.146-156)
Cassius seems to think that by playing on his desire for personal glory, he can sway Brutus to join the conspirators. The thing is, we're not sure if Brutus is interested in self-gain. It seems Cassius keeps bringing up personal gain because it's his motivation for taking down Caesar.
Quote #3
CASCA
Three or four
wenches where I stood cried, 'Alas, good soul!' and
forgave him with all their hearts. But there's no
heed to be taken of them; if Caesar had stabbed
their mothers, they would have done no less. (1.2.282-286)
Casca suggests that public opinion is easily won and is therefore meaningless. Plus, even though the Romans are supposed to be a republic of equal citizens, those in charge think everyone else is dumb and treat them accordingly. (All Romans are equal, but some are more equal than others.)