Meaning: This quote by Andrew Bradley Judge compares the characters Brutus and Hamlet from Shakespeare's plays and highlights their intellectual and reflective nature. The quote suggests that both characters possess a philosophical outlook, with Brutus being described as more strictly philosophical. To fully understand the implications of this quote, it's important to delve into the characteristics and actions of both characters in their respective plays.

Brutus is a central character in Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar," a tragic historical play set in ancient Rome. He is portrayed as a man of high moral principles and noble intentions, often driven by his sense of duty and honor. Brutus is highly intellectual, relying on reason and logic to guide his decisions. His reflective nature is evident in his internal struggles and contemplation of the greater good for Rome. Despite his moral and philosophical inclinations, Brutus ultimately becomes involved in the conspiracy to assassinate Caesar, believing it to be a necessary sacrifice for the preservation of the republic.

On the other hand, Hamlet is the titular character of Shakespeare's renowned tragedy "Hamlet." Unlike Brutus, Hamlet is characterized by his deep introspection and philosophical contemplation. His intellectual nature is evident in his soliloquies and existential musings about life, death, and the human condition. Hamlet's reflective habit often leads him to question his own actions and the nature of reality, causing him to hesitate and deliberate extensively before taking decisive steps. His philosophical ponderings drive the internal conflict that shapes much of the play's narrative.

Both characters exhibit traits of intellectualism and reflectiveness, but the quote suggests that Brutus may be considered more philosophic in a stricter sense. This assertion can be examined through the lens of their respective philosophical inclinations and the actions driven by their contemplative nature. Brutus, as a stoic and principled thinker, is driven by a strict adherence to his philosophical beliefs, even when it leads to tragic consequences. His commitment to the ideals of Roman republicanism and his willingness to sacrifice personal relationships for the greater good exemplify his strict philosophical nature.

In contrast, Hamlet's philosophical tendencies are more existential and subjective. His introspective nature leads him to question the nature of existence, morality, and the afterlife. While his contemplations are profound and profound, they often lead to indecision and inner turmoil, ultimately shaping his tragic fate. Unlike Brutus, Hamlet's philosophical reflections are deeply personal and introspective, reflecting a more nuanced and subjective approach to philosophical inquiry.

The comparison between Brutus and Hamlet as intellectual and reflective characters sheds light on their respective approaches to philosophy and decision-making. While both characters engage in profound contemplation, their philosophical inclinations manifest in different ways, shaping their actions and fates. This quote by Andrew Bradley Judge serves as a thought-provoking insight into the complex nature of these iconic Shakespearean characters, inviting further exploration of their philosophical underpinnings and their roles in their respective plays.