General Essay-Style Questions

For examinations or class/coursework essays.

Answer these questions using close reference to the text:

1.      Discuss one of the following comments on Antony and Cleopatra:

a. “All the play’s complexities resolve upon a single opposition: ‘Egypt is romantic but wrong, Rome is repulsive but right’.”

b. “Splendid poetry and variety of characters cannot make up for the play’s lack of dramatic coherence. Indeed, they are largely responsible for it.”

2.      “‘Infinite variety’ may be applied not just to Cleopatra, but to the play as a whole.” In what different way does variety contribute to the dramatic interest of Antony and Cleopatra?

3.      “Self-indulgence” or “tragic greatness?” What is your view of the relationship between Antony and Cleopatra?

4.      Discuss the importance of the comments on Antony and Cleopatra made by two or more other characters at the several stages of the action.

5.      “He hath given his empire Up to a whore.”  Do you think that this is an adequate description of the relationship of Antony and Cleopatra? Give reasons and illustrations.

6.      “The tragedy of Antony and Cleopatra is essentially that of a man caught between conflicting claims.” Consider this view of the play, saying how far you agree with it.