Marcus Brutus

Also known as: Brutus · Family: Roman · Role: commander · First appears: Pompey

Marcus Brutus was descended from Junius Brutus, was the son of Servilia, the brother of Junia, and the cousin of Porcia, whom he married very young. He was Cato the Younger’s nephew and son-in-law, was sent by him to Cyprus, and admired and imitated him. Brutus was also brought up in Plato’s philosophy, admired Antiochus, and took Aristus into his house as a friend and companion.

Brutus first placed himself under Pompey’s command, making them enemies, but the public good later made him Pompey’s friend and Caesar’s enemy. After Pompey’s defeat, Caesar pardoned Brutus, honored him among his chief friends, trusted him particularly, and believed he was his own child; Brutus in turn gained Caesar’s forgiveness for Cassius. He was a principal confidant of Cicero, though later became highly displeased with him, and gave Cicero’s son a command.

When Caesar entered the senate, Brutus and the conspirators assassinated him. Afterward Brutus prevented them from killing Antony: “Thus did Brutus save Antony's life.” Brutus and Cassius then fled Rome after being condemned and pursued, while Antony’s funeral oration provoked attacks on the conspirators’ houses. After his defeat at Philippi, Brutus killed himself with the help of Strato. Antony buried him splendidly, and Caesar preserved his honors.