Study Questions
1. What is the meaning of Agrippa’s comment at the opening of Scene 7?

2. How does Scarrus react to the existing situation?

3. What does Scarrus mean by saying, “I’ll halt after”?

4. What did Antony mean by referring to “Hectors” at the beginning of Scene 8?

5. What does Cleopatra promise Scarrus for his bravery and valiant behavior?

6. In Scene 9, what is Enobarbus’ attitude?

7. Why did Enobarbus die?

8. Octavius’ soldiers overhear Enobarbus’ soliloquy just before his death. What is their reaction to what he is saying?

9. What does the sentry mean by saying, “He is of note”?

10. What was the soldiers’ attitude toward Enobarbus?

Answers
1. Agrippa realizes that the forces of Octavius (Caesar) have suffered a decisive defeat, and he orders a retreat. He realizes Octavius and his army are in a bad spot and have a great deal to do to recover from the defeat.

2. Although seriously wounded, Scarrus is jubilant and is willing to receive far more wounds the next day in completing Antony’s victory.

3. Scarrus realizes that he cannot keep up with Antony and the others as they go toward Cleopatra’s palace, but he says that he will limp along.

4. Hector, son of Priam, king of Troy fought valiantly for Troy until he was defeated by the Greek warrior Achilles in the famous battle. Therefore, a valiant warrior was often referred to as a “Hector.”

5. Cleopatra promises Scarrus a suit of golden armor.

6. Enobarbus repents deeply of his actions as a traitor to his beloved Antony and calls upon the moon to be a witness to his repentance. He probably is aware he is about to die.

7. Shakespeare does not tell us whether Enobarbus died at his own hand or died of a broken heart—broken by his own cowardice in defecting to Octavius (Caesar).

8. The soldiers think that what Enobarbus is saying might affect (or be of interest to) their commander, Octavius.

9. The sentry means that Enobarbus is (or was) an important officer in Octavius’ army.

10. The soldiers’ attitude is one of relative sympathy and even understanding, in spite of the fact that Enobarbus was a member of the opposing army. They try to minister to him as best they are able, but Enobarbus is already dead.