Act III, Scene ii, in William Shakespeare's play Julius Caesar, might be labeled the funeral orations. Antony shows up with Caesar's body, Brutus introduces Antony to the crowd and closes his speech by once more saying that he killed his best friend for Rome's sake and that he will turn the same dagger on himself if his country ever needs his death. This is the scene that results with both Brutus and Marc Antony speaking on the death of Caesar. "If you have tears, prepare to shed them now." is a clever line that Antony gives in the oration. It is very different than any of the lines used by Brutus.

Here, the difference between the funeral speeches of Brutus and Antony is that Brutus, characteristically, appeals to reason and logic. Antony on the other hand appeals to emotions. Brutus is an introverted, solitary philosopher, and his speech to the citizens is totally within his skill set. He explains his reasons for killing Caesar. He is also a trained orator and delivers a sort of model of a classic rhetorical speech. This is particularly obvious because he uses balanced sentences and a formal way of talking. Marc Antony uses a very great deal of emotion as he speaks. He appeals to the crowd through humility, greed, and sarcasm. He also uses three properties to sway the audience: the mantle or cloak of Caesar, his body, and Caesar’s will.

Antony gives a masterful oration, an example of manipulation both subtle and blatant. He uses reverse psychology to win the crowd.

More Info: www.echeat.com