Discuss what Enobarbus calls Cleopatra's "infinite variety"

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Discuss what Enobarbus calls Cleopatra's "infinite variety"

In Act 2 Scene 2 of the play Enobarbus refers to Cleopatra as having an "infinite variety", this is conceivably in reference to her ever changing personality and her rapidly shifting moods. Throughout the play a wide range of moods are displayed by Shakespeare through her character, from a loving and caring woman, to an evil and manipulative queen.

In the scene where she is described as having "infinite variety" Enobarbus is giving an overall description of her boat and its magnificence which only compliments the beauty of Cleopatra herself. This suggestion of her being of extraordinary beauty is carried right through the play through many other characters actions and descriptions. Not only do we gather the impression that she is beautiful form the way Antony is so seduced and enticed by her but also descriptions from characters like Enobarbus. It is apparent that the boat is set to symbolise her in likeness and beauty.

"...like a burnished throne"

Quotations like this again exemplify the thought and history of her successful reign over Egypt and her unpredictable success as a female ruler.
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The Greek historian Mestrius Plutarchus views Cleopatra as a purely negative influence over Antony and this view is displayed in some of his workings.

"...if any spark of goodness or hope of rising were left in him, Cleopatra quenched it straight and made it worse than before"

"Cleopatra has brought him beside himself by her charms and amorous poisons"

This point is reinforced by Shakespeare by the way he represents her as manipulative, in scenes where Antony is not there we can see how her mind process works and her thinking behind her actions. ...

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