Antony and Cleopatra by William Shakespeare (Book Analysis)

This practical and insightful reading guide offers a complete summary and analysis of Antony and Cleopatra by William Shakespeare. It provides a thorough exploration of the play’s plot, characters and main themes, including Roman military values and the influence of ancient mythology on the story. The clear and concise style makes for easy understanding, providing the perfect opportunity to improve your literary knowledge in no time.

This clear and detailed 48-page reading guide is structured as follows:

• Biography of William Shakespeare
• Presentation of Antony and Cleopatra
• Summary of Antony and Cleopatra
• Character study
  • Mark Antony
  • Cleopatra
  • Octavius Caesar
  • Lepidus
  • Octavia
  • Fulvia
  • Sextus Pompeius (Pompey)
• Analysis of Antony and Cleopatra
  • Roman values
  • Rome and England
  • Mythological sources
  • Geography
  • Interracial marriage

About Antony and Cleopatra

Antony and Cleopatra is a tragic story of love and politics set in Ancient Rome. It centers on the lovers Mark Antony, a general in the Roman army, and Cleopatra, the Queen of Egypt, which is tested when Antony is forced to choose between his homeland and his lover. After quarreling with the other members of the Triumvirate that rules the Roman Empire, Antony renounces his homeland and travels to Egypt to be with Cleopatra. However, this leads to the outbreak of war, and a series of misfortunes and misunderstandings result in the suicides of both Antony and Cleopatra.

About William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare is generally considered one of the greatest playwrights in history. He was born in 1564 in the English town of Stratford-upon-Avon, and produced more than 30 plays during his lifetime, in addition to many works of poetry. His works are still frequently performed around the world today, more than 400 years after his death in 1616, and have been translated into every major language. Although the scarcity of historical records about him means that very little is known about his personal life, the enduring popularity of his work has cemented his reputation as the greatest writer in the English language.