Antony and Cleopatra

Antony and Cleopatra

by

William Shakespeare

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Antony and Cleopatra: Act 3, Scene 5 Summary & Analysis

Read our modern English translation of this scene.
Summary
Analysis
In another room of Antony’s house, one of his followers named Eros tells Enobarbus that Octavius and Lepidus have defeated Pompey, but that then Octavius did not let Lepidus “partake in the glory of the action,” and has effectively pushed Lepidus out of power. Enobarbus reflects that the world is now up for grabs between Antony and Octavius, with both Pompey and Lepidus out of the picture. Enobarbus goes to find Antony.
Eros delivers the important message that Octavius has gotten rid of both Lepidus and Pompey. In order to gain power, Octavius has had to essentially betray Lepidus. He now has only Antony as a rival, creating a highly symbolic conflict between Egypt and Rome, east and west.
Themes
Love, Pleasure, and Decadence Theme Icon
Honor, Loyalty, and Betrayal Theme Icon
Strategy, Manipulation, and Power Theme Icon
Messages, Warnings, and Omens Theme Icon