Trusting Antony, he abandons his comrade before the battle of Alexandria and dies of shame. Enobarbus, in William Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra, often functions as a detached observer of events and other characters. His comments are generally objective and full of cynicism but never devoid of truth. Such a character not only mixes in himself the elements of loyalty and betrayal, wit and honesty, but also plays an important role in better understanding other major characters in the play. The artistic representation of Enobarbus is most apparent through the juxtaposition of truth. and cynicism, a paradox that can be attributed to most of his speeches. Enobarbus, upon his introduction, appears to be an opulent man found at Cleopatra's court expressing in erotic jokes: "most of our fortune this evening we will be/drunk in bed" (I.ii. 46-47), obscures his appearance as a businessman. a worldly man whose prudence nevertheless avoids his practice of cynicism. This is most notably manifested in the general attitude of the Romans towards Cleopatra which is revealed in Philo's opening exaltation. Enobarbus shares a completely different view of the queen of Egypt: "her passions are made only of the finest part of pure love" (I.ii.148-49) – although we recognize that her reaction to the Fulvia's death is indeed cynical, as Antoine points out, "no more light answers" (I.ii.178). From there, readers encounter a character full of humor and wit, who is nevertheless a credible guide in offering insight into common sense in private matters in the changing moods of tragedy. Readers also realize that despite his wit and humor, Enobarbus is subtle and not at all unreasonable. This is evident in his words middle of paper... about the unfaithfulness of the world surrounding Mark Antony. Ergo, Enobarbus is described as more than a man of reason who has a detached view of the world who has the abilities to rationally and objectively analyze his situation. Through its sharp digressions and witty humor, readers can explore the more complex dimensions of the play's main characters. Even though, for all his cynicism and subtle understanding of Roman political rivalries and alliances, he is labeled in his self-condemning final words as an "outgoing master and a fugitive" (IV.x.22), who saves his loyalty and seeks redemption through his final exaltation. Works Cited Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616. The tragedy of Antony and Cleopatra. Ed. Barbara Everett. New York: Signet Classic 1988OED online Oxford University Press