How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Act.Scene.Line). Line numbers correspond to the Riverside edition.
Quote #4
SOLDIER
By Hercules, I think I am i' th' right.
CANIDIUS
Soldier, thou art, but his whole action grows
Not in the power on 't. So our leader's led,
And we are women's men. (3.7.84-87)
One of Antony’s soldiers confers with Canidius about the fact that fighting at sea is foolish, because they are weaker there. Canidius regrets that Antony’s actions don’t stem from the source of his own power, but the power of the woman that leads him. To be led by another’s power is a weakness. Further, as they are led by a woman’s power (which was thought of as weaker than a man’s) they are weaker than they would be if Antony were exercising his own power.
Quote #5
ANTONY
Fare thee well, dame.
[he kisses her]
Whate'er becomes of me,
And worthy shameful check it were, to stand
On more mechanic compliment. I'll leave thee
Now like a man of steel. (4.4.38-43)
Antony doesn’t dote, but leaves Cleopatra in an austere and honorable fashion, as a gallant man going to face his fate, armed with his confidence, not pride. The call of the battle has reaffirmed his manhood that had previously been called into question.