The first scene is set in the Palace of Cleopatra in the city of Alexandria. The scene opens as a conversation develops between Philo and Demetrius who are Roman friends of Antony. By opening in the middle of their conversation the audience immediately becomes interested in what is being said and about whom. We learn that Philo and Demetrius are unhappy with Antony's infatuation with Cleopatra and concerned that Antony has forsaken the ways of war for love. Antony's friends are not very complimentary about Cleopatra and describe her as a "gypsy" and "strumpet" and Antony as her "fool." In the middle of their conversation the stage direction is quite dramatic as Antony and Cleopatra enter preceded by a `flourish' ie. a blast of trumpets whilst being fanned by Eunachs and surrounded by their supporters. Their costumes are lavish and colourful and are in significant contrast to the...