Antony and Cleopatra – Key Quotations & Themes

Nine vocabulary flashcards summarising the central themes and quotations discussed in the lecture, focusing on loyalty, love, duty, betrayal, and downfall in Shakespeare’s ‘Antony and Cleopatra.’

Loyalty to Antony

Expressed when the speaker pledges, “I will not be long from you” (Act 4, Scene 1), highlighting steadfast devotion despite looming conflict.

Perception of Love

Captured in the exclamation, “The greatest soldier of the world, / He laid the world in the palm of his hand” (Act 1, Scene 2), which glorifies Antony’s romantic and military prowess.

Duty vs. Affection

Voiced through the lament, “I see you all are bent to set against me, for your power is a thing I cannot fight against” (Act 3, Scene 13), revealing the struggle between professional obligation and personal loyalty.

Self-Condemnation

Revealed in the admission, “I am alone the villain of the piece” (Act 3, Scene 13), signifying the speaker’s awareness of his own betrayal and guilt.

Nature of Friendship

Mourned with the line, “There’s a great spirit gone!” (Act 4, Scene 6), emphasizing the fragility of bonds amid political turmoil.

Antony’s Downfall

Acknowledged when the speaker says, “When I saw this, I thought on you” (Act 4, Scene 6), marking recognition of Antony’s decline.

Cleopatra’s Manipulation

Expressed in the bitter reflection, “But, O, how bitter a thing it is to look into happiness through another man’s eyes!” (Act 1, Scene 2), underscoring Cleopatra’s influence over Antony.

Consequences of Loyalty

Exposed in the critique, “He hath given his empire / Up to a whore” (Act 2, Scene 2), illustrating how blind devotion leads to political ruin.

Final Betrayal

Confessed with, “My heart is turned to stone; I have lost my way” (Act 4, Scene 6), indicating the irreversible break from former allegiance.