Antony and Cleopatra · Chapter
Scene XII explained
Antony learns that his fleet has surrendered to Caesar and, believing Cleopatra has betrayed him, rages against her.
What happens
Antony learns that his fleet has surrendered to Caesar and, believing Cleopatra has betrayed him, rages against her. He threatens her with violence and humiliation, then resolves to kill her, calling for his servant Eros.
Themes in this chapter
Betrayal and Trust
Antony's belief that Cleopatra has sold him to Caesar drives the scene, highlighting the collapse of trust between the lovers.
Fate and Fortune
Antony's fortunes are in decline; he feels abandoned by fate and speaks of parting with Fortune, while the augurers' uncertainty underscores the theme.
Characters to notice
- Mark Antony
Antony is devastated and enraged after learning his fleet has yielded to Caesar, accusing Cleopatra of betrayal and vowing revenge.
- Scarus
Scarus reports the ominous signs and Antony's fluctuating fortunes, then witnesses Antony's outburst and is ordered to flee.
- Cleopatra
Cleopatra enters to find Antony furious, is accused of treachery, and is driven away by his threats of violence and public humiliation.
Key passages
“All is lost; This foul Egyptian hath betrayed me: My fleet hath yielded to the foe”
Everything is ruined; that deceitful Egyptian has betrayed me—my navy has surrendered to the enemy.
Antony's immediate reaction to the news of his fleet's surrender, blaming Cleopatra.
“Fortune and Antony part here; even here Do we shake hands.”
Fortune and I are parting ways; right here we say goodbye.
Antony acknowledges his downfall and the end of his good luck.
“The shirt of Nessus is upon me: teach me, Alcides, thou mine ancestor, thy rage”
I am tormented like Hercules by the poisoned shirt of Nessus; inspire me, Hercules my ancestor, with your fury.
Antony compares his anguish to the mythical poison that killed Hercules, calling for rage to match his ancestor's.