# Scene V explained — Antony and Cleopatra

> Chapter companion for Antony and Cleopatra by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Antony learns that Enobarbus has deserted him for Caesar, but he responds with magnanimity, ordering that Enobarbus's treasure be sent after him and sending gentle farewells.

## Themes in this chapter

### Betrayal and Trust

Enobarbus's desertion highlights the theme of betrayal, while Antony's generous response underscores the complexity of trust and loyalty.

## Character check-ins

### Mark Antony

Antony receives news of Enobarbus's desertion and responds with generosity, ordering his treasure to be sent after him.

### Eros

Eros is present with Antony and confirms that Enobarbus's chests and treasure were left behind.

### Enobarbus

Enobarbus has deserted Antony and joined Caesar's camp, as reported by the soldier.

## Key lines

> Would thou and those thy scars had once prevail’d To make me fight at land!

I wish your advice and your battle scars had convinced me to fight on land.

_Antony regrets not heeding the soldier's earlier counsel to fight on land._

> O, my fortunes have Corrupted honest men!

Oh, my changing luck has turned loyal men into traitors.

_Antony laments that his declining fortunes have caused even faithful followers to betray him._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/antony_and_cleopatra_se/chapters/act-iv-scene-v
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/antony_and_cleopatra_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/antony_and_cleopatra_se/chapters