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All Site ContentJulius CaesarAct 3Scene 2
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"enrolled in the Capitol”
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Act 3,
Scene 2
Lines 24-39

An explanation of the phrase “enrolled in the Capitol” in Act 3, Scene 2 of myShakespeare’s Julius Caesar.

Brutus

As Caesar loved me, I weep for him; as he was fortunate,
I rejoice at it; as he was valiant, I honor him; but as he
was ambitious, I slew him. There is tears for his love; joy
for his fortune; honor for his valor; and death for his
ambition. Who is here so base that would be a bondman?
If any, speak, for him have I offended. Who is here so rude
that would not be a Roman? If any, speak, for him have
I offended. Who is here so vile that will not love his
country? If any, speak, for him have I offended. I pause for
a reply.

All

None, Brutus, none.

Brutus

Then none have I offended. I have done no more to
Caesar than you shall do to Brutus. The question of his
death is enrolled in the Capitol; his glory not extenuated,
wherein he was worthy; nor his offenses enforced, for
which he suffered death.

Official acts of the government were recorded on scrolls in the the Capitol building. Brutus claims that Caesar's record as a dictator—and therefore the reason for his death—is objectively detailed there for all to see.