In one of the most famously torrid love affairs of all time, defined by extramarital cheating, lavish outfits, histrionics, and the shadow of collapsing empires, this episode’s main characters define obsession and the insanity of passion. No, not Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton! Antony and Cleopatra! Picking up where “Julius Caesar” left off, Shakespeare cranks up the operatic dialogue and battle scenes as Rome tears itself asunder. Will and James discuss why Cleopatra is one of the most fascinating women in Shakespeare, the amazing language throughout the play, and whether their relationship represents puppy love or a clichéd midlife crisis.

Credits

• Intro Music: Jon Sayles, "The Witches' Dance" (composed by anonymous)

• Outro Music: Jon Sayles, “Saltarello” (composed by anonymous)

• Illustrative Excerpts: “Cleopatra,” dir. Joseph Mankiewicz (1963); “Antony & Cleopatra,” dir. Iqbal Khan, Royal Shakespeare Company (2017); “Antony & Cleopatra,” dir. Trevor Nunn, Royal Shakespeare Company, (1974); “Casablanca,” dir. Michael Curtiz (1942); “Antony and Cleopatra,” dir. Lawrence Carra (1984); “Antony and Cleopatra,” dirs. Gary Griffin/Barry Avrich, Stratford Festival (2015)