Duty is central to Antony and Cleopatra because it exemplifies the honor central to being in a position of power. Duty to the state is explored in the play, but so is duty to loved ones and one’s self. The conflict between all these different types of duty provides the central tension of the play. Antony acts on duty to the state when he marries Octavia, but if he honors his heart, he has to be with Cleopatra. Friendship is also important because so much of the play is about how leaders are nothing without the people who follow them. Cleopatra constantly leans on her servants for support and advice, and Antony is undone as his own men betray him. How we view ourselves is often gauged by how others view us, and their duty to us is a reflection of our own honor.
Questions About Duty
- Does Cleopatra feel any duty to Antony? Does Antony feel any to Cleopatra? How is duty reflected in their actions toward each other?
- Does Enobarbus die because he has betrayed his friend, or because he is ashamed of his own actions? Does Antony consider Enobarbus to be a friend? Is the relationship between military men and the men who lead them best characterized as friendship?
Chew on This
Duty is only properly driven by loyalty in Antony and Cleopatra. Only when characters truly love their leaders do they feel beholden to stay true to them.