Antony and Cleopatra

Ventidius, one of Antony’s soldiers, has won a great victory in Parthia. However, although he believes that he is capable of winning more, Ventidius decides not to because he recalls that ambitious soldiers who have won more glory than their commanders are not often rewarded.

Meanwhile, Enobarbus and Agrippa recount how Pompey has departed back to Sicily, while Lepidus is hung over after the banquet. The triumvirs prepare to part, and Octavia seems sad to leave her brother. She takes him aside to whisper into his ear and Enobarbus and Agrippa notice that Caesar’s expression changes to look upset. Antony, however, seems unaffected by emotion at their parting.

Cleopatra summons back the messenger that she earlier struck and interrogates him about Octavia. After he reports that Octavia is shorter than her with a quiet voice and a humble bearing, Cleopatra is relieved and decides that Antony will not fall in love with her. She apologizes to the messenger and promises to reward him well.

Meanwhile, Antony learns that Caesar has declared war against Pompey again, despite the treaty, and has given speeches that glorify himself while neglecting to mention Antony.