Dissolution

Abstract This chapter addresses the collapse of Antony’s relationship with Octavian, the battle of Actium, the defence of Alexandria, and Antony’s death. Topics include: Antony’s offer to restore the republic and the question of its sincerity; the conflict between Octavian and Antony, especially its expression in propaganda and invective; Octavian’s deployment of orientalist prejudice and misogyny; Antony’s military preparations for war against Octavian; the flight of many in the senate who joined Antony in Ephesus; the problem of Cleopatra in Antony’s high command; Antony’s ceremonial and festive progress to Greece; Octavian’s revelation of Antony’s will and its implications; Octavian’s preparations for war against Cleopatra; Agrippa’s naval strategy, which wrongfooted Antony; the battle of Actium and Antony’s decision to separate himself from his legions; the subsequent defection of Antony’s legions; Antony’s final months in Alexandria and his defence of the city; Antony’s suicide.