The Context of Anthony and Cleopatra Act 4 Scene 15 Essay Example

contribute to his defeat. Furthermore, Anthony is deeply affected by the desertion of his allies, leaving him in a state of despair.

However, there is solace for Anthony in the fact that Enobarbus takes his own life because of his betrayal. The romance between Anthony and Cleopatra is intense and unstable, but they are reunited in this scene before their impending deaths. Anthony's love and concern for Cleopatra are evident in this scene, as he selflessly advises her to trust no one except Proculious when it comes to Caesar. Cleopatra, in her typical selfless manner, responds that she will rely on herself.

Anthony declares his own epitaph in the following manner: "a Roman, by a Roman/ Valiantly vanquished" (L. 15/57). Cleopatra faints upon witnessing his death and then expresses a poignant lament for her lost Anthony. In this scene, the portrayal of the lovers strengthens and solidifies the impression they have left throughout the play. What is noteworthy about Anthony's behavior is his deep concern for Cleopatra's safety and reputation. Despite his defeat in battle, Anthony's ardor for Cleopatra remains evident as he desires to kiss her one last time, demonstrating that his love for her endures.

Anthony's self-centered nature is apparent as he reflects on his own pride and reputation as a soldier. During a formal speech, he requests to be remembered for his past glory. He concludes with a dignified assertion that a fellow "Roman" is the cause of his death. It is possible that he is thinking of his defeat by Caesar or his earlier statement to Cleopatra that "it was not Caesar's bravery that defeated Anthony, but Anthony's own lack of triumph." Suicide was

considered honorable in Roman society, and Cleopatra acknowledges this when she contemplates doing something "brave and noble" at the end of the scene.

Despite Anthony's failed suicide attempt, he seems to remain optimistic and puts a positive spin on their unfortunate situation. Cleopatra's main concerns revolve around her own safety and reputation until Anthony's death. This is demonstrated by the fact that Anthony is brought to her, instead of the usual arrangement where she goes to him. This is likely because Cleopatra believes she will become a mere decoration, like a brooch. Contrary to being completely absorbed in each other and neglecting everything else, the lovers continue to display their intense self-focus that has been evident since the start.

Anthony sees himself as a brave and triumphant Roman, while Cleopatra projects a royal and commanding presence. This is evident in the language she uses and how others depict her. Cleopatra identifies herself as the ruler of "Royal Egypt" and an empress, often referring to a crown, her spectre, and a jewel. She connects herself with divinity by expressing a desire to possess the power of Juno to control Anthony. Cleopatra's extravagant nature is evident in her use of hyperbole: she would argue so passionately that Fortune might be forced to break her wheel, and she would even consider throwing her sceptre against the gods who allow harm and suffering.

Despite being only one of several tones present in this scene, the imperial note is clearly heard in Cleopatra's language. Her use of ironic awareness is evident in her statement "here's sport indeed" and the word play on weighs, which carries both physical and emotional weight. This showcases

her sharp verbal intelligence, but it also evokes a sense of pathos. It is challenging to fully understand Anthony's thoughts in his final moments as he rests in Cleopatra's embrace. There are various factors to consider. He could be reflecting on recent losses against Caesar, but it is more probable that he is contemplating the act of taking his own life, an action considered noble within Roman beliefs.

This passage depicts Cleopatra's recognition of her own fate. She contemplates taking her own life to avoid being treated like an idol. Cleopatra's concerns go beyond her personal health and safety; she values her honor as the graceful queen of Egypt. She believes that when Caesar gains power, she will be reduced to a pawn, while Octavia will gain the honor. After Anthony's death, Cleopatra is stricken with grief and faints from the shock. This display of vulnerability is the most human action Cleopatra reveals to the audience.

Anthony's final speech is characterized by restraint and formality as he begins to accept the inevitable end. In contrast, Cleopatra's speech showcases a varied emotional range and fluid movement, setting her apart from her lover. Initially, she modestly identifies herself with "the maid that milks," but eventually aligns herself with the gods. Her contemplation of death leads her to consider her maidservants. Despite fluctuating moods and thoughts, she ultimately resolves herself calmly as the end approaches.

The language style employed by Shakespeare in Anthony and Cleopatra is characterized by frequent and dramatic shifts in pace and mood, ranging from moments of high intensity to moments of deep despair. The death scene serves as a clear example of a low point for Anthony,

followed by a subsequent low point for Cleopatra. The language utilized throughout the play exhibits a distinct style that can be observed when reading various other works by Shakespeare. Additionally, the format and structure of the play markedly differ from those of other plays, with relatively short scenes. This particular aspect has been criticized by numerous readers and critics of Shakespeare's works.

In act 4 Scene 15, Shakespeare employs Hyperboles to generate a sense of urgency and dramatic impact for readers. These hyperboles are evident in the characters' speeches throughout this scene. Unlike other contemporary plays, Shakespeare's language in this scene is unconventional, featuring numerous short scenes and vivid imagery to evoke a particular effect on readers. Additionally, humor is employed to highlight significant points and inject a comical and light-hearted element into the pathos surrounding Anthony's death.

Shakespeare skillfully creates an atmosphere of Pathos, Grandeur, and solemn laments in the last stages of their lives, as the shadow of death looms over the couple. The once joyful mood surrounding them drastically changes, indicating the approaching end. The text's pace intensifies as it reaches its climax before their demise. The play's pathos is most evident in the final moments, when Cleopatra carries out her plan to take her own life and join her beloved Anthony. This act of ultimate sacrifice can be perceived by the audience.