Monologue

Ventidius Monologue from Antony and Cleopatra

From Antony and Cleopatra by William Shakespeare

male · contemplative · 1:04 min

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O Silius, Silius, I have done enough. A lower place, note well, May make too great an act. For learn this, Silius: Better to leave undone than by our deed Acquire too high a fame when him we serve’s away. Caesar and Antony have ever won More in their officer, than person. Sossius, One of my place in Syria, his lieutenant, For quick accumulation of renown, Which he achieved by th’ minute, lost his favour. Who does i’ th’ wars more than his captain can Becomes his captain’s captain; and ambition, The soldier’s virtue, rather makes choice of loss Than gain which darkens him. I could do more to do Antonius good, But ’twould offend him, and in his offence Should my performance perish.

About this piece

Ventidius reflects on the nature of ambition and loyalty in the context of war, weighing the consequences of his actions in relation to Antony's reputation and success.

30s · determination · ambition · power · loyalty · conflict

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