Analyse
with close reference to the text, the expository function of Act 1 of Dryden’s All
For Love.
This act serves to introduce the main characters — Antony,
Cleopatra, and Octavius Caesar; it also outlines the main forces which motivate
each of them. The first scene is set in Alexandria, where two of Antony's men,
Demetrius and Philo, describe the lovers' relationship. Caesar appears in a
later scene, and we see how he perceives Antony and Cleopatra's relationship.
In addition, his comments about Antony reveal a great deal about his own
character. We also have ample evidence in this act that Antony and Cleopatra
are deeply in love, but Antony does not realize the tragic possibilities of
their infatuation, yet he is torn by divided loyalties.
Play opens with the discussion of some citizens of Egypt. Serapion tells his fellows about the queer supernatural incidents that he witnessed last night. Alexas, the eunuch, who is in the service of Cleopatra comes to them and scolds Serapion for telling his cooked dreams to others and warns him from doing so.
Ventidius, a Roman knight comes. Alexas recognise him and tells the citizens that though he hates Ventidius, yet it cannot be denied that he is of the bravest Romans. As Alexas sees Ventidius approaching to him, he announces that Egypt will celebrate Antony’s birthday with great pump and show. Ventidius is displeased with Alexas announcement as Antony’s life is in danger and Egyptians are celebrating his suffering.
