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.

Autorentext

Timothy Grams a grandi dans une petite ville du Michigan. En tant qu'acteur, l'uvre de Shakespeare a joué un rôle primordial dans sa carrière. En tant qu'universitaire, Shakespeare est au cur de son travail. Après avoir obtenu une maîtrise en littérature anglaise, il s'efforce de promouvoir les arts par le biais de l'éducation.