In Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, the Soothsayer warns Caesar to beware of the ides of March. "Ides" means the 15th of the month. This is just one of several signs in the early stages of the drama that warn of the chaotic, unnatural state of local politics in the play. Caesar, however, doesn't heed any of the warning signs and dismisses the Soothsayer as if he's speaking nonsense.
Of course, Ceasar ends up being assassinated on the 15th of March. Ironically, Caesar is superstitious, as shown when he arranges for his wife to be touched by Antony while Antony is racing, due to a myth that this may heal her inability to conceive. But he ignores the truly important omens and warnings that might have saved his life.
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