illustration of Antony and Cleopatra facing each other with a snake wrapped around their necks

Antony and Cleopatra

by William Shakespeare

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Act 1, Scene 3 Summary

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Cleopatra pretends to be sick in scene 3. She wants Antony's attention, and she taunts him about his unfaithfulness to his wife and wonders whether he will betray her as well. She is trying to manipulate him, but it does not work. Antony explains that he must go to Italy because of the conflict between Rome and Sextus Pompeius. He also informs her that Fulvia is dead. Cleopatra taunts him again for showing so little grief and wonders if he would grieve for her. Antony assures her that even though he must leave, part of him will remain with her.

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Act 1, Scenes 1 and 2 Summary

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Act 1, Scenes 4 and 5 Summary