Major Themes in Dryden's All for Love

All for Love is a tragedy composed by Dryden. It is a retelling of Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra, but with some significant alterations to the original story. One of the major themes of the play is the conflict between love and duty. The major characters of this play struggle to reconcile their personal desires with their obligations to their respective countries.

The character of Antony, for example, is torn between his love for Cleopatra and his duty to Rome. He is a Roman general. He is expected to prioritize his duties to the state. But he prefers his personal desires. His passionate love for Cleopatra causes him to abandon his responsibilities. Ultimately he suffers from his downfall. Similarly, Cleopatra is torn between her love for Antony and her obligations to her country. She is a queen. Her actions are very important for her country. But her love for Antony causes her to act impulsively.

Another major theme of the play is the nature of power. It corrupts individuals. Antony and Cleopatra are both rulers. Their positions of authority give them a sense of entitlement and invincibility. These things ultimately lead to their downfall. Their excessive pride and desire for power blinds them to the consequences of their actions. They become increasingly isolated as they lose control over their respective domains.

The play also explores the theme of the transience of human life. Antony and Cleopatra are both aware of the mortality of life. Their awareness of the fleeting nature of life gives their love affair a sense of urgency and intensity. This awareness contributes to their eventual downfall. Due to this awareness they become increasingly desperate and reckless in their pursuit of pleasure and fulfillment.

Finally, the play explores the theme of honour and reputation. Antony and Cleopatra are both larger-than-life figures. Their reputations precede them wherever they go. Their actions are scrutinized by others. They are constantly aware of how their actions will be perceived by others. Their desire to preserve their reputation and honor leads them to make decisions that ultimately lead to their downfall.

In short, All for Love explores a variety of themes. The conflict between love and duty, the corrupting influence of power, the transience of human life and the importance of honour and reputation are major themes of this play. Through the characters of Antony and Cleopatra the playwright highlights the nature of human desire and its side effects on life.