Classical Masculinity in Shakespeare¿s Antony and Cleopatra

This analysis uses the formula of classical masculinity to examine Marc Antony¿s value as a Roman man in Shakespeare¿s Antony and Cleopatra. Examining Antony¿s history as a Roman hero, I distinguish how his reputation is destroyed through his romantic involvement with Cleopatra. Furthermore, I consider the divine representations of Cleopatra and Octavian Caesar as they oppose each other, and how Antony¿s role within their conflict defines his value as a classical Roman man. I then deliberate his sexual fetishism for the matriarch pharaoh, and how their relationship functions as sadomasochistic, defining Antony as the masochist and Cleopatra as the sadist. In conclusion, I focus on Antony¿s suicide, and determine the masculine value of his final moments within the play.