# Scene VII explained — Antony and Cleopatra

> Chapter companion for Antony and Cleopatra by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Cleopatra insists on joining Antony in battle despite Enobarbus's objections. Antony decides to fight Caesar by sea against the advice of his officers, swayed by Cleopatra's support. News arrives that Caesar has taken Toryne, and Antony prepares for naval engagement.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love vs. Duty

Antony's choice to fight by sea is swayed by Cleopatra's presence and wishes, prioritizing personal loyalty over military prudence.

### Power and Ambition

Cleopatra asserts her authority as queen, insisting on participating in the war, while Antony's ambition drives him to accept Caesar's challenge.

### Fate and Fortune

Antony's reliance on chance and hazard in the naval battle reflects a gamble with fate, as warned by Enobarbus.

## Character check-ins

### Cleopatra

Insists on participating in the war and influences Antony's decision to fight by sea.

### Enobarbus

Argues against Cleopatra's involvement and advises against a naval battle, warning of the risks.

### Mark Antony

Decides to fight Caesar by sea, overriding the counsel of his officers.

### Canidius

Questions Antony's decision to fight by sea and reports on the disposition of land forces.

### Scarus

Appears as a soldier who urges Antony not to fight by sea, advocating for land battle.

## Key lines

> I will be even with thee, doubt it not.

I will get back at you, make no mistake.

_Cleopatra threatens Enobarbus for opposing her involvement in the war._

> Celerity is never more admired Than by the negligent.

Speed is never more admired than by those who are slow.

_Cleopatra rebukes Antony for being slow to react to Caesar's advance._

> Your ships are not well mann'd; Your mariners are muleters, reapers, people Ingross'd by swift impress.

Your ships are poorly crewed; your sailors are mule drivers and harvesters hastily conscripted.

_Enobarbus warns Antony that his naval forces are inferior to Caesar's._

> Give up yourself merely to chance and hazard, From firm security.

You are abandoning a secure position to rely on luck and risk.

_Enobarbus criticizes Antony's decision to fight by sea instead of land._

## Links

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