Act 1 Scene 4

Scene Outline
In Rome, young Octavius Caesar complains to Lepidus, the third triumvir, that Antony has abandoned his responsibilities as a statesman and, in doing so, has also abandoned the better part of his manhood. Lepidus attempts to defend Antony, suggesting that Antony’s weaknesses for fishing, drinking, and reveling are traits he inherited rather than ones he has chosen. Caesar remains unconvinced, declaring that Antony has no business enjoying himself in Egypt during a time of crisis. A messenger arrives with news that Pompey’s forces are both gathering strength and finding support among those whose prior allegiance to Caesar arose from fear, not duty. Remembering Antony’s valiant and unparalleled performance as a soldier, Caesar laments that Antony is not with them. He and Lepidus agree to raise an army against Pompey.

Analysis
In this scene, Octavius almost mocks Antony and Cleopatra for failing to uphold their duties as powerful men and women, he jokes that Antony is as womanly as Cleopatra, and that Cleopatra is as manly as Antony. However, Lepidus comes to Antony's defense, by suggesting that his current "lightness", may simply be traits of his character. By doing so, Shakespeare attempts to illustrate two opposing characters, one who actively enforces gender stereotypes - Octavius - and one who doesn't - Lepidus. Octavius literally places shame upon Antony, hoping that it will be what brings him back to his manly status. Because Cleopatra is seen as a powerful individual, she is the character who holds the masculinity, however Antony is supposed to be viewed as feminine; due to his vulnerability to the words of the masculine figures around him (including Cleopatra).