How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Act.Scene.Line). Line numbers correspond to the Riverside edition.
Quote #4
CLEOPATRA
Is Antony or we in fault for this?
ENOBARBUS
Antony only, that would make his will
Lord of his reason. What though you fled
From that great face of war, whose several ranges
Frighted each other? Why should he follow?
The itch of his affection should not then
Have nick'd his captainship, at such a point,
When half to half the world opposed, he being
The merèd question. 'Twas a shame no less
Than was his loss, to course your flying flags
And leave his navy gazing. (3.13.3-13)
Enobarbus seems rather enraged by Antony’s own lack of reason or willpower. (Enobarbus uses "will" to refer to Antony’s desire.) In fleeing along with Cleopatra, Antony let his passion overrule his reason. Enobarbus charges that he had no reason to do this, and in following his passion, Antony has incurred shame as well as loss.