Previous
Mood
Definition of Motif
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
Act 1, Scene 2
Explanation and Analysis—The Nile River:
Throughout Antony and Cleopatra, the Nile river is frequently mentioned in discussion or utilized in figurative language as representative of fertility and abundance. In scenes featuring hedonism or debauchery, the river makes an appearance, becoming a motif associated with the same qualities Shakespeare affords Egypt and Cleopatra in the play.
In the passage below from Act 1, Scene 2, Antony swears on the Nile as a means of aligning himself with Cleopatra, pledging fealty to her and, by extension, the excesses and enjoyments she represents:
CLEOPATRA: O, most false love!
Where be the sacred vials thou shouldst fill
With sorrowful water? Now I see, I see,
In Fulvia’s death, how mine received shall be.ANTONY: Quarrel no more, but be prepared to know
The purposes I bear, which are or cease
As you shall give th’ advice. By the fire
That quickens Nilus’ slime, I go from hence
Thy soldier, servant, making peace or war
As thou affects.
Act 1, Scene 3
Explanation and Analysis—The Nile River:
Throughout Antony and Cleopatra, the Nile river is frequently mentioned in discussion or utilized in figurative language as representative of fertility and abundance. In scenes featuring hedonism or debauchery, the river makes an appearance, becoming a motif associated with the same qualities Shakespeare affords Egypt and Cleopatra in the play.
In the passage below from Act 1, Scene 2, Antony swears on the Nile as a means of aligning himself with Cleopatra, pledging fealty to her and, by extension, the excesses and enjoyments she represents:
Unlock with LitCharts A+CLEOPATRA: O, most false love!
Where be the sacred vials thou shouldst fill
With sorrowful water? Now I see, I see,
In Fulvia’s death, how mine received shall be.ANTONY: Quarrel no more, but be prepared to know
The purposes I bear, which are or cease
As you shall give th’ advice. By the fire
That quickens Nilus’ slime, I go from hence
Thy soldier, servant, making peace or war
As thou affects.
