Techniques on Cleopatra and Anthony Powerplay

Elective 2: Powerplay – Antony & Cleopatra

Consider representations of and the interplay of types of power

Analyse portrayals of the powerful

Consider how the depiction of particular relationships provides insight into the nature of politics

Consider the extent to which power resides with the people

Techniques

Suspense

Delays entry of main characters and Caesar

Caesar powerful- delayed entrance- magnifies his power for audience (dramatic technique)

Soothsayer foreshadowing/foretelling

“You shall outlive the lady whom you serve” (Cleopatra’s death)

“I thou dost play with him at any game, thou art sure to lose” (Antony’s fall to Caesar)

Soliloquy- dramatic monologue

climatic- heightened sense of the character’s soul being laid bare

Antony berating himself for not being strong enough to break the ties with Cleopatra- stupid enough to follow her ships

Foreshadowing his own death – “O’ Sun, thy uprise shall I see no more”

Sounds of battle

Cannon fire, trumpets, drums – dramatizes it, makes it more realistic

Dramatic terms- limited by stage, can’t have proper battle scene

Symbol of warfare

Dialogue

Cleopatra’s power over Antony seen when Antony tries to tell Cleopatra about Fulvia, but she constantly cuts him off.

Eg. “now, my dearest queen – “ ; “Cleopatra – “ ; “Most sweet queen – “ ; “Hear me queen:”

Dashes