Honest review of Antony and Cleopatra

by WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (Author)

Updated at: 21/01/2025

Shakespeare's "Antony and Cleopatra" is a sweeping tragedy exploring the intoxicating and ultimately destructive power of love amidst political turmoil. The play centers on the passionate, ill-fated romance between the Roman triumvir Mark Antony and the captivating Queen Cleopatra of Egypt. Their fervent affair throws Antony into conflict, forcing him to choose between his Roman responsibilities and his all-consuming love. This choice fuels betrayal, war, and the inevitable downfall of both protagonists. Through their tragic story, Shakespeare masterfully examines themes of ambition, loyalty, and the devastating consequences of unchecked passion against the backdrop of clashing empires and shifting power dynamics.

4.5 / 96 ratings

Review Antony and Cleopatra

Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra is a captivating read, a truly worthy addition to any Shakespearean collection. While the characters themselves – Antony and Cleopatra – aren't exactly paragons of virtue, their flaws are precisely what makes them so compelling. They are magnificent, flawed individuals, driven by passions that ultimately lead to their devastating downfall. It's a messy, thrilling story, a tragic romance played out against the backdrop of crumbling empires and political machinations.

The play isn't simply a tale of love gone wrong; it's a grand, sweeping epic. The scale of the story, the shifting alliances, the clash of cultures – it all feels monumental, and Shakespeare's writing masterfully conveys this sense of epic grandeur. He paints vivid pictures of power, ambition, and the intoxicating, destructive nature of love. Cleopatra, particularly, remains one of history's most fascinating and iconic femme fatales. While perhaps not conventionally beautiful, her charm, wit, and sheer power are undeniable. She's a force of nature, and Shakespeare captures this perfectly.

One passage that truly resonates, and is frequently quoted, is Cleopatra's celebrated line, "Age cannot wither her, nor custom stale her infinite variety." This statement encapsulates her enduring allure and unwavering confidence. But beyond this famous quote, the entire play is filled with powerful, evocative language. The final scenes, especially the interactions between Cleopatra and her maids, are incredibly moving and poignant. The sheer weight of their impending doom hangs heavy in the air, creating a palpable sense of tragedy.

However, the characters' unpleasant qualities do present a slight drawback. Antony's neglect of his Roman duties and Cleopatra's petulant outbursts and manipulations might, for some readers, detract from their overall sympathy for the characters. They aren't characters you'd necessarily want as friends, perhaps more akin to fascinating, albeit problematic, celebrities. Their flaws, however, make their story all the more realistic and relatable, even if we don't fully condone their actions.

The specific edition I read (I'll need to check which one!) was also a pleasant surprise. Unlike some digital editions of classic texts, the formatting was excellent, mirroring a well-produced physical copy. The easily accessible footnotes and supporting analysis significantly enhanced my understanding and appreciation of the play. This improved accessibility made a world of difference, transforming the reading experience from a struggle with poor formatting to an enjoyable and insightful exploration of Shakespeare's masterpiece. For those looking for a well-presented and easy-to-navigate e-book, this version is highly recommended.

In conclusion, Antony and Cleopatra is a complex, emotionally resonant play that deserves its place amongst Shakespeare's greatest works. The grand sweep of its story, the compelling characters (despite their flaws), and the powerful language make it a truly rewarding, even if sometimes frustrating, reading experience. The combination of historical drama, tragic romance, and potent writing make it a truly worthwhile investment of your time.