Shakespeare describes Julius Caesar as deaf in his play, Julius Caesar. Is there any way to tell if he was really deaf?

It is difficult to find specific details of Caesar's
health, though his political prowess is well
substantiated.

One source reports that Caesar was of good
health, but suffered from epileptic fits. Another source
reports:

...he
was a slightly built man, had a soft and white skin, suffered from headaches and was
subject to epileptic fits.

It
would appear that even with the few items above, not much is known of Caesar's early
life. It is known that he took great care of his men. He never asked them to do things
he would not do himself. He slept often in chariots, out in the open. These things
seemed to improve his health; he was not a leader who need to be pampered, nor wanted
it.

Of course, in Shakespeare's play, Julius
Caesar, there is mention by Caesar of being deaf. Two things we know about
Shakespeare. He was not afraid to change history or make things up for the sake of a
plot. One source suggested deafness would have been a good excuse for not knowing of the
conspiracy to kill him, but the truth seems to be that he was very aware of the dangers
that surrounded him; however, he chose to live his life out in the open instead of
hiding away. This is in keeping with the battles he fought, and the dedication to his
men. He was a brilliant strategist and a strong
soldier.

The other thing we know about Shakespeare is that
he used the English language with an ease, dexterity and flare that is still admired
today. It is quite possible that Shakespeare was manipulating Antony to his other side
as they prepare to leave the room, keeping him close for further discussion between just
the two of them, as Caesar speaks of Cassius. The right hand is often symbolic of a
place of honor and trust, and this might also be a reason for moving
Antony.

Come
on my right hand, for this ear is deaf,
And tell me truly what thou think'st
of him. (I.ii.219-220)