Structure

Question 1

Tragic Structure

Answer 1

This play is a dual tragedy where Antony and Cleopatra are both tragic characters, although Cleopatra’s death is more of a reclaiming of power.

This subverts traditional tragedy where the male hero dominates. It also challenges gender norms as Cleopatra shares the tragic spotlight - tragedy is redefined through a female lens.

Question 2

Foreshadowing

Answer 2

The Soothsayer warns against Antony’s defeat at the Battle of Actium. Additionally, Antony has early concerns about Cleopatra.

This foreshadowing creates a sense of inevitability and shows Antony and Cleopatra’s doomed fate

Question 3

Episodic Structure

Answer 3

The play moves rapidly between 2 locations. There are 40 scene changes. This highlights the contrast between Rome and Egypt - symbolising Antony’s internal conflict.

It also creates a sense of relentlessness, mirrors Antony’s divided identity and emotional instability and mirrors the chaotic nature of empire and politics.

‘Antony is pulled between the opposing worlds of Rome and Egypt.’

Question 4

Non-Aristotelian Tragedy

Answer 4

The play doesn’t follow strict unity of time/place/action like a Greek tragedy, as Aristotle described. - ‘Aristotle unity is rejected.’

This reflects how the play reflects the global scale of the story and that there is a fall of empire and not only personal downfall and additionally reflects Cleopatra’s grand, theatrical nature.

Question 5

What Happens as the Play Progresses?

Answer 5

As the play progresses, scenes become shorter and more chaotic which reflects the breakdown of empire, identity and control or Antony’s psychological collapse.