1The scene with Cinna is only played on the Elizabethan stage; it is richly humorous and shows what a master craftsman Shakespeare was to relieve the tension of the previous scenes. The citizens, men and women, rush on seeking for prey, they catch Cinna, surrounding him R and L. Each time they reëcho his words with significant expressions. I have no will to wander forth of doors, Enter Citizens L and R Third Cit. Ay, and truly, you were best. Cin. (C). What is my name? I going? Where do I dwell?3 Whither am Am I a married man or bachelor?3 Then, to answer every man directly and briefly, wisely and truly: wisely I say, I am a bachelor. Sec. Cit. That's as much as to say, they are fools that marry: you'll bear me a bang for that, I fear. Proceed; directly. Cin. (C). Directly, I am going to Cæsar's funeral. First Cit. As a friend or an enemy? Cin. As a friend. 1The scene must be made very funny. 2They are just going to do it. Cinna is a very thin, long-nosed, pompous, quiet gentleman, and is highly indignant at the treatment he receives. The women of the crowd practically lift him bodily and carry him off R. 5The tent can be made on the Elizabethan stage by looping up the curtains of the canopy; background the same. On the scenic stage, this scene cannot be in Rome. A plain pair of large curtains can be draped, or a regular tent used with an indefinite background of landscape; the back of the tent should be a cloth. For flourishes of each contending faction, roll of drums or cornets; rather long-sustained notes are most effective and unlike the modern bugle call. Sounds of arms are effective and the words of command given behind scenes and echoed by three or four people. Sec. Cit. That matter is answered directly. Cin. Truly, my name is Cinna.1 First Cit. Tear him to pieces; he's a conspirator.2 Cin. I am Cinna the poet, I am Cinna the poet. Fourth Cit. Tear him for his bad verses, tear him for his bad verses. Cin. I am not Cinna the conspirator. Fourth Cit. It is no matter, his name's Cinna; pluck but his name out of his heart, and. turn him going. Third Cit. Tear him, tear him! Come, brands, ho! fire-brands: to Brutus', to Cassius'; burn all; some to Decius' house, and some to Casca's; some to Ligarius': away, go! [Exeunt Scene II. Camp near Sardis. Before Brutus' tent5 Drum. Enter Brutus, Lucilius, Lucius, and Soldiers R; Titinius and Pindarus meeting them L. |