When was the play Antony and Cleopatra written?
Scholars estimate that Shakespeare wrote Antony and Cleopatra around 1606 or 1607. Some researchers argue for an earlier date near 1603 or 1604.
Questions about Antony and Cleopatra
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What source material did William Shakespeare use for Antony and Cleopatra?
The story of Antony and Cleopatra begins in 1579 with a translation by Sir Thomas North. This English version of Plutarch's Lives provided the raw material for Shakespeare's play.
Where was the play Antony and Cleopatra first performed?
The King's Men performed it at either the Blackfriars Theatre or the Globe Theatre around 1607. The play did not appear in print until the First Folio published in 1623 under the title The Tragedie of Anthonie, and Cleopatra.
How many scenes does the play Antony and Cleopatra contain?
His work contains forty separate scenes more than any other play he wrote. Modern editions divide the play into five acts though Shakespeare created no such divisions.
Who are the historical figures mentioned as children of Octavia in relation to Antony and Cleopatra?
Octavia lived with Antony for several years and bore him two children named Antonia Major and Antonia Minor. These historical deviations allowed Shakespeare to focus on character dynamics rather than strict chronology.