Ides of March 2024: Observe the Ides of March, or at the very least, be cognizant of the date on which “the Ides” occur (15 March). The term “Ides” originates from the Latin word “modus,” denoting the midday of each month during the Roman calendar era. In particular, the Ides occur on the fifteenth day of March, May, July, and October, and on the thirteenth day of the remaining months.
During the Roman Empire, the seven days preceding the Ides were customarily incorporated into the debt-paying calendar on the designated days preceding the Ides each month. Undoubtedly, debtors who were unable to repay their obligations regarded the Ides as ominous days, since they were frequently incarcerated or enslaved.
An Overview of Ides of March
The foreboding pall that occurs during the Ides of March has a deeper, more significant connection to ancient Rome. The infamous Ides of March in 44 B.C. saw the assassination of Roman Emperor Julius Caesar by his senators, who were concerned that their leader was turning into a despot.
Films frequently alter historical events in an attempt to enhance their entertainment value, thereby attracting larger audiences and superior reviews. William Shakespeare encountered a similar circumstance when he penned the renowned tragedy “Julius Caesar.”
According to author Barry Strauss, much of what is commonly believed to be true about the unfortunate emperor’s mortality on the Ides of March is more likely to have originated from Shakespeare’s play than from historical evidence. The author of “The Death of Caesar” debunks the partial falsehoods surrounding the ruler’s demise during the Ides of March in the year 44 B.C. He debunks the following three falsehoods regarding the assassination of Emperor Julius Caesar on the Ides of March:
Myth #1:
Julius Caesar was cautioned by an unidentified sorcerer to “beware the Ides of March.”
Contrary to popular belief, Spurinna, an Etruscan sorceress, foretold the portent in question on February 15, 44 B.C. It read “Beware the next 30 days.”
Myth #2:
Caesar’s closest companion, Brutus, orchestrated the assassination scheme.
Contrary to popular belief, three conspirators were present: Brutus, Cassius, and Decimus. Decimus, whom Caesar regarded as his most trusted subordinate, is widely regarded as the mastermind behind the assassination plot.
Myth #3:
Caesar uttered the eminent phrase “Et tu, Brute” (you, too, Brutus) as he passed away.
Contrary to popular belief, the act of Caesar singling out Brutus while he was dying was a Renaissance invention. Although the emperor was a trained soldier who attempted to evade the ambush while fighting for his life, he never uttered these words.
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Ides of March 2024 FAQs
When do the Ides of March occur?
On the American calendar, March 15 is observed as the Ides of March.
Does the Ides of March signify misfortune?
The Ides of March befell Julius Caesar, the Roman Emperor. His senate betrayed, ambushed, and assassinated him on the Ides of March in 44 B.C., thereby endowing March 15 with an enduringly misfortunate reputation.
Who first uttered the phrase “Beware the Ides of March?”
William Shakespeare, an English dramatist and actor, penned this cryptic admonition in his tragedy “Julius Caesar.” While it is widely believed that this was said to the emperor, in reality, no such statement was ever made.
Ides of March 2024 Activities
Rectify a debt.
Repay a debt in observance of the ancient Roman custom of doing so on the Ides of March or any other month. In exchange, you will receive some positive emotional energy from the acquaintance who extended you a loan that you have yet to repay.
Arrange A Roman Vacation
Utilize the Ides of March to educate on contemporary history. Arrange a journey to Italy to investigate the ancient Roman remnants of the city where Julius Caesar, who was emperor of the Roman Empire at the time, was killed by his trusted advisors.
A Toga Celebration!
At its heart, the Ides of March constituted a substantial political dispute. Do you have a particular political issue that evokes the deepest fervor within you? Contact a representative of your local government or organize a group email campaign with your acquaintances. You are encouraged to exercise your right to participate in politics in Julius Caesar’s honor.
IDES OF MARCH DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | March 15 | Friday |
| 2025 | March 15 | Saturday |
| 2026 | March 15 | Sunday |
| 2027 | March 15 | Monday |
| 2028 | March 15 | Wednesday |
