Ep 5. Antony & Cleopatra With Kim Cattrall

Antony & Cleopatra are among Shakespeare's most legendary characters, with their tumultuous and doomed love affair serving as the backbone of this play set in ancient Egypt and Rome. In this episode of Shakespeare Uncovered, actress Kim Cattrall takes viewers on a journey through the complex relationship between these two iconic figures and the world in which they lived.

Cattrall begins by exploring the historical context in which the play is set. She takes viewers on a tour of ancient Alexandria, Cleopatra's home city, and explains how the Roman Empire came to be such a dominant force in the region. She also delves into the political and cultural forces that shaped Antony and Cleopatra's world, from the influence of Greek philosophy to the rise of Christianity.

From there, Cattrall turns her attention to the play itself, exploring the many themes and motifs that make it such a rich and complex work. She looks at the various interpretations of the play over the centuries, touching on everything from its early popularity in the Restoration era to its modern-day relevance in the #MeToo movement.

Throughout the episode, Cattrall speaks with a wide range of experts and scholars, including director Janet Suzman, actor Harriet Walter, and historian Mary Beard. They offer their own insights into the play and its characters, discussing everything from Cleopatra's infamous "serpent of old Nile" speech to the subtle ways in which the play explores gender roles and power dynamics.

Along the way, Cattrall also draws on her own experiences as an actor, reflecting on the challenges of playing a character like Cleopatra and the ways in which she strives to bring her own interpretation to the role. She also shares some behind-the-scenes stories from her time on the stage, offering viewers a glimpse into the world of professional Shakespearean theater.

Ultimately, this episode of Shakespeare Uncovered offers a fascinating and multi-faceted exploration of one of the Bard's most enduring works. Whether you're a longtime fan of the play or a newcomer to its world, there's something here for everyone to enjoy and learn from. So sit back, relax, and let Kim Cattrall guide you through the endlessly fascinating story of Antony and Cleopatra.