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Antony and Cleopatra, Act 2, Scene 2 summary

Act 2, Scene 2 of 42 · 10 min to read the scene

In Act 2, Scene 2, Antony and Caesar confront their grievances and accept Agrippa’s proposal that Antony marry Octavia to strengthen their alliance against Pompey. After the leaders leave to meet her, Enobarbus describes Cleopatra’s dazzling first meeting with Antony and rejects the claim that Antony can abandon her.

What happens

  1. Lepidus urges calm as Caesar accuses Antony of encouraging rebellion, insulting his messenger, and withholding promised military support.
  2. Antony denies supporting the rebellion, admits neglecting his obligations, and asks forgiveness without surrendering his honor.
  3. Agrippa proposes marriage between Antony and Octavia, and both leaders accept this means of securing their alliance.
  4. The leaders discuss Pompey’s strength and leave to meet Octavia before taking military action.
  5. Enobarbus describes Egyptian extravagance and Cleopatra’s spectacular arrival on the Cydnus, where she captures Antony’s affection.
  6. Maecenas expects Antony to leave Cleopatra, but Enobarbus insists her appeal cannot fade.

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In this scene

AntonyCleopatraCaesarEnobarbusOctaviaPompeyTheme: Political marriage

What to notice

Enobarbus explains why he rejects the claim that Antony can leave Cleopatra. His certainty challenges the hopes invested in the marriage agreement.

Quick check

Who proposes that Antony marry Octavia?

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