The phrase “The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves, that we are underlings” comes from William Shakespeare’s play Julius Caesar. It is spoken by the character Cassius in Act 1, Scene 2.
In this quote, Cassius is addressing Brutus and expressing a philosophical view about fate and personal responsibility. The meaning can be broken down as follows:
“The fault, dear Brutus”: Cassius is acknowledging a problem or a situation that they find themselves in. He is speaking to Brutus, whom he considers a friend and ally.
“is not in our stars”: This part refers to the idea that their misfortunes or the reasons for their current situation are not predetermined by fate or destiny. In ancient times, it was commonly believed that the positions of stars and planets could influence a person’s life and character.
“but in ourselves”: Cassius asserts that the real issue lies within themselves, implying that their failures or subservience (being “underlings”) are due to their own actions, choices, or lack of assertiveness, rather than any external forces.
“that we are underlings”: Here, Cassius is lamenting that they are subordinate or oppressed (in this context, by Julius Caesar). He is encouraging Brutus to take control of their destiny and to recognize that they have the power to change their circumstances.
Overall, the quote emphasizes the theme of free will versus fate. It suggests that individuals have the capacity to shape their own destinies through their actions and decisions, rather than being passive victims of fate. Cassius is motivating Brutus to take action against Caesar, implying that they should not resign themselves to their current state but instead take responsibility for changing it.