# Scene III explained — Antony and Cleopatra

> Chapter companion for Antony and Cleopatra by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Antony bids farewell to Octavia and Caesar, then consults a Soothsayer who warns him that Caesar's fortune outshines his own and urges him to return to Egypt. Antony acknowledges the truth of the prophecy and resolves to go east, commissioning Ventidius for the Parthian campaign.

## Themes in this chapter

### Fate and Fortune

The Soothsayer's prophecy and Antony's acknowledgment of Caesar's superior luck highlight the theme of fate and fortune, as Antony feels compelled to follow his destiny eastward.

### East vs. West

Antony's choice to return to Egypt over remaining in Rome with Octavia underscores the conflict between Eastern allure and Western duty.

## Character check-ins

### Mark Antony

Antony takes leave of Octavia and Caesar, listens to the Soothsayer's warning, and decides to return to Egypt, ordering Ventidius to Parthia.

### Octavius Caesar

Caesar exchanges courtesies with Antony and Octavia before exiting, his superior fortune noted by the Soothsayer.

### Octavia

Octavia parts from Antony with a promise to pray for him, embodying duty and devotion.

### Soothsayer

The Soothsayer warns Antony of Caesar's overshadowing fortune and advises him to return to Egypt.

### Ventidius

Ventidius is summoned by Antony and given a commission to lead the campaign in Parthia.

## Key lines

> The world and my great office will sometimes Divide me from your bosom.

My responsibilities and position will often separate me from you.

_Antony explains to Octavia that his duties will keep them apart._

> Thy demon, that's thy spirit which keeps thee, is Noble, courageous high, unmatchable, Where Caesar's is not; but, near him, thy angel Becomes a fear, as being o'erpower'd.

Your guardian spirit is brave and unmatched, but when you are near Caesar, it becomes timid and overpowered.

_The Soothsayer warns Antony that Caesar's presence diminishes his own fortune._

> I will to Egypt: And though I make this marriage for my peace, I' the east my pleasure lies.

I will go to Egypt; even though I married for political calm, my true happiness is in the East.

_Antony resolves to return to Cleopatra, admitting his marriage was a political move._

## Links

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