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Learn the meaning and context of Marc Antony's famous speech from Shakespeare's play, with a modern translation and analysis. Find out how he uses the image of a general crying havoc and releasing the dogs of war to express his revenge against Caesar's killers.
The dogs of war is a phrase spoken by Mark Antony in Act 3, Scene 1, line 273 of English playwright William Shakespeare 's Julius Caesar: "Cry 'Havoc!', and let slip the dogs of war."
The ‘cry havoc, and let slip the dogs of war’ form of the phrase is from Julius Caesar, 1601. After Caesar’s murder Anthony regrets the course he has taken and predicts that war is sure to follow. With carrion men, groaning for burial. The term is the predecessor of ‘play havoc’ (with).
Learn the meaning and origin of this expression from Shakespeare's play Julius Caesar. See examples of how to use it in different contexts and variations.
“Cry “Havoc!” and let slip the dogs of war” Meaning. Literally, the quote suggests that the “dogs of war,” or dogs trained for warfare, should be let loose on their enemies. But, “dogs” is used as a metaphor for the broader chaos and death that Antony is going to encourage.
Learn the origin and usage of the phrase ‘the dogs of war’, which describes the destruction and chaos of war. Find out how Shakespeare, history, and popular culture have used this expression.
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What does 'let slip the dogs of war' mean?
What does 'Cry Havoc & let slip the dogs of war' mean?
Why did Shakespeare use 'Cry 'Havoc' and let slip the dogs of war?
Why did Mark Antony say 'dogs of war'?
Cry 'Havoc,' and let slip the dogs of war; That this foul deed shall smell above the earth. With carrion men, groaning for burial. (3.1.254-275) After stabbing Caesar in the back (and the guts, arms, legs, and chest), Cassius and Brutus reason that they've done their pal a favor.
