Julius Caesar: Imperfect Models of Leadership Leadership is a recurring theme in Shakespeare's Julius Caesar. The show centers on a group of men in leadership positions. The political setting and mood of Julius Caesar lend themselves well to Shakespeare's insights into the human condition. As the players' personalities develop over the course of the work, we see that its depiction of their character types (which survive to this day) is consistent and accurate. Julius Caesar has many great examples of arrogance in leadership. We consider Caesar's claims rather ridiculous. “But I am as constant as the north star, of whose faithful and restful quality there is no companion in the firmament,” and “the things that menaced me never looked but behind me: when they shall see the face of Caesar, will have disappeared" demonstrate his pride. Shakespeare suggests that although being "self-confident" is a necessary characteristic of a good leader (as it allows for decisive action and "courage"); it should also be tempered with humility. A leader's confidence, in turn, instills confidence in his followers. The quote: "And men are of flesh and blood and apprehensive; yet among these I know but one who unassailably maintains his rank, unshaken by motion: and that I am he," is an example of the comfort and security that his words provided to the common people. Caesar's absolute faith in his greatness and right to rule was found in the perfect climate, in the midst of a community seeking a "ruler." The followers were more sheep than thinkers... middle of paper... other conspirators as traitors, the crowd is wild. Antonio's transparent "sweet friends, let me not incite you to such a sudden wave of mutiny" is only the beginning of his carefully orchestrated solicitations towards them. When he finally releases them, it's with a "Now let it work. Bad, you're underway, take the path you want!" - an exclamation that sounds "strong-hearted", but not very well thought out. Shakespeare warns that such a leader can be dangerous. Through a well-developed cast and a complex work about men, politics and power; Shakespeare has once again demonstrated his mastery of the humanity of the characters he creates. The imperfect models of leadership we examine in Julius Caesar lend themselves perfectly to the theory that “an imperfect world gives power to imperfect men”".