Discussion Questions

How does Cleopatra defy gender roles for women at the time?

Why did Cleopatra side with Marc Antony instead of finding favor with Octavian?

What was Lepidus’ role in this/What should his role have been?

After reading the reviews, which version of Antony and Cleopatra would you want to go see?

What are some of your thoughts after learning about this play?

If you were to put this on, what would you do and how would you do it?

Why do you think that this was one of Shakespeare’s least popular works?

If you had the ability to change the time period Shakespeare wrote about, what time period would you choose?

Do you think that this play would benefit from a modernized plot or being left as it is?

Who do you think was the true villain? Was there a villain? Are there any protagonists?

How did this play explore topics of manipulation, abuse, and sexism?

Which was the greatest factor in driving the plot: Wealth or Power?

What do you think would have happened if Antony and Cleopatra came out on top?

What commentary does this make on human nature? Is it still applicable today?