In William Shakespeare's Tragedy of Julius Caesar many characters exhibit the qualities of a tragic hero. Although a number of the men are obvious choices, Portia, the wife of Brutus, fits the description in many ways. Her intelligence, perception, and love for her husband become her tragic flaws as they lead her to fear for her husband to the extreme of wounding herself and committing suicide. Despite Portia's limited appearances in the play, Shakespeare presents her as a woman who knows her mind and loves her husband. .

             Portia first appears during Act II, scene I of the play. Brutus has just met with several of the conspirators at his home; it is the night before the assassination. Brutus has spent the past month struggling with his decision to join the conspirators or not. During this time, Portia has been very aware of her husband's difficulties. "Y'have ungently, Brutus, Stole from my bed; and yesternight at supper You suddenly arose and walked about, musing and sighing, with your arms across" (II, I, 237-240). Although Brutus has shared nothing with his wife, she is keenly aware of the troubles that have been bothering him. .

             Portia's fears for her husband's health, both mental and physical, show her loyalty and her love for her husband. .

             What is Brutus sick, And will he steal out of his wholesome bed, To dare the vile contagion of the night, And tempt the rheumy and unpurged air To add unto his sickness? No, my Brutus; You have some sick offense within your mind, Which by the right and virtue of my place I ought to know of. (II, I, 263-270).

             She perceives that he has a problem and insists that she be told what it is. This is a somewhat forward attitude for a wife in the times of Julius Caesar. However, it is important to keep in mind that Portia is no average woman.

             Portia reminds the audience of her noble position in society based on her connections as she argues with her husband to tell her what has been going on in his life.