Gaius Octavius The Savior of Shakespeares Julius Caesar

A savior as defined by Merriam-Webster is, â€Å"one that saves from danger or destruction.† This term describes Gaius Octavius in more than one way or instance; Octavius helps to rid Rome of the evil conspirators, and Octavius is the emperor who rebuilds Rome. Readers and viewers of Shakespeares play don’t get a clear and drawn out view of Octavius as he doesn’t appear for much of the play. A reason isn’t given in the play, but history reveals that he is off traveling the world. Octavius takes advantage of the fact that he is Caesar’s named heir when the time to seize power comes. Gaius Octavius , one of Caesar’s family members, was somewhat of a rambunctious youngster; however, he asserted himself with self-confidence both in Rome and on the battlefield against the conspirators. Octavius gives readers an example of his need to be in charge when he says, â€Å"Upon the right hand I; keep thou the left (V.i.16-20).† He says this to Marc Antony after Antony tells him to stay to the left of the battlefield. He says this in manner that the reader would see as pure defiance to Antony’s power. It could also be taken as Octavius showing a rivalry against Antony that would escalate and appear later when the rebuilding of Rome is about to take place. As a member of Caesar’s family, it is clear where Octavius’s confidence arises. His confidence is apparent throughout his rule of the Roman Empire through his military actions and his social reforms. He becomes especially hungry for