Beware the Ides-Quotation

"Beware the ides of March." Julius Cesar (1.3.103)  is one of Shakespeare's most famous one liners. It has been referenced and used in media for hundreds of years since. This one liner carries with it a very ominous tone, which is almost contradictory to its actual meaning. Ides were one of the ancient Roman markers used for their lunar calendar. The ides, specifically represented a time of festivities and merriment. Once you understand what this warning means literally, you can better understand the significance of this Shakespearean prophecy. It sticks to the pattern he established in many of his plays, Macbeth for instance, of giving the main character a false sense of security. This security can be felt by the audience to, and keeps them guessing throughout the play as to what the prophecy truly means.