Monday, September 9, 2019

Cleopatra Scene Analysis

This scene paints some very stark differences between Caesar and Cleopatra. The shot is a medium shot, allowing us to get a good look at the attire of both characters. Cleopatra is covered in white, and is in a room colored white, surrounded by her servants, who are also dressed similarly. Caesar, in stark contrast, is covered in regal gold and red colors. In addition, Caesar is standing over Cleopatra in a very intimidating manner, while Cleopatra is half-naked, which shows her vulnerability in her current state. In this manner, Caesar is presented, both figuratively and literally, as an intruder into Cleopatra's life. The mise-en-scene has this scene covered in items that show Cleopatra's royal status, however the colors show that it is a different kind of royalty from Caesar. Cleopatra's royalty comes much from her image as a beautiful princess, while Caesar's royalty comes from his power and intimidation. In this scene, Caesar is moving in and taking over Cleopatra's life and status as the one true figure of royalty through means of intimidation and show of power.

1 comment:

  1. Nice job talking about the power differential and about the way Caesar's intrusion into Cleo's life is visually put in scene. It's interesting, of course, that Cleo herself created this scene, ordering a costume and scene change just before Caesar showed up to appear the way a Roman would expect her to live, in luxury and decadence.

    ReplyDelete