Watch a very short extract from Shakespeare’s play Antony and Cleopatra. Link: Antony & Cleopatra: ‘Hook a Fish’ Search Terms: Antony & Cleopatra Hook a Fish Shakespeare’s Globe
In this scene we meet the powerful queen of Egypt, Cleopatra, who has just fallen in love with the Roman general, Mark Antony. Antony is away on business and Cleopatra plans to keep herself busy with games and fishing. She says that every time she catches a fish it will be like ‘catching’ Antony all over again.
As you watch this production, don’t focus on understanding the meaning of every single word or expression (i.e. the script). Instead, focus on the decisions made by the director in presenting this play to the audience. Use the following instructions to guide your viewing.
1. First, watch the clip once through – it’s short, just 50 seconds.
2. Working in pairs, choose three of the areas listed below to focus on as you watch the clip for a second time. • Backdrop • Costume • Props • Sound effects and music • Position of actors • Body language • Voice For each area you choose, write down the three things you noticed about the choices made by the director.
3. Did the director’s choices help your understanding of the scene? Give reasons for your answer.
