Antony and Cleopatra, Act 3, Scene 4 summary
Act 3, Scene 4 of 42 · 2 min to read the scene
In Act 3, Scene 4, Antony complains that Octavia’s brother belittles him and agrees to let her try to reconcile them while he prepares for war. Octavia fears that her loyalties as wife and sister cannot coexist in a conflict, and she hopes to prevent mass death.
What happens
- Antony accuses Octavia’s brother of starting wars against Pompey, publicizing his will, and withholding proper praise.
- Octavia urges Antony to distrust reports and describes the misery of praying for both her husband and her brother.
- Antony insists that his honor defines him, permits Octavia to mediate, and announces preparations for war.
- Octavia appeals to Jove for reconciliation and compares the threatened conflict to the world breaking apart.
- Antony tells Octavia to blame whoever starts the conflict and gives her freedom to choose companions and spend freely.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Antoine et Cléopâtre, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Commencez 90 jours gratuitsNothing to pay today. 0,14 USD a day in the first year, then 0,27 USD a day.
In this scene
What to notice
Antony makes honor essential to his identity. This explains why he treats dismissive public remarks as grounds for a serious break.
Quick check
What does Antony permit Octavia to do?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Antoine et Cléopâtre, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Commencez 90 jours gratuitsNothing to pay today. 0,14 USD a day in the first year, then 0,27 USD a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
