Antony and Cleopatra: the theme of natureNature, described as mysterious and secret, is a recurring theme in Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra. Cleopatra, the unfortunate queen of Egypt, is both mysterious and secretive, and her emotional power exceeds the great force of nature. Whether described positively or negatively, nature and Cleopatra are described as "great natural forces." Throughout the first act, the two are compared and contrasted by various characters in the play. The first act, set in Alexandria, Egypt, sets the stage for the play and introduces the majority of the cast. The second scene introduces one of the major themes of the play, nature. In this steamy, innuendo-filled scene, two close friends of Cleopatra and one of Antony discuss her and Antony's life. Charmian, one of Cleopatra's best friends, Alexas, one of Cleopatra's servants (as well as the link between her and Antony), Enobarbus, one of Antony's trusted lieutenants, as well as a soothsayer are all present and discussing their fate. During this discussion, the soothsayer states: “In nature's infinite secret book/I can read a little” (I.ii.10-11). The soothsayer explains to the others that she cannot do much beyond not only her powers, but also what nature allows her. One of the earliest references to nature and the mystery surrounding it, this quote simply demonstrates how little power people have over something as great as nature. Nature and the elements that surround it are simply a mystery to the inhabitants of Rome. In his discussion with his lieutenant commander, Enobarbus refers to Cleopatra, the queen of Egypt and soon-to-be lover of Antony, as a great natural force that is above the powers of nature. In the second scene of the first act, Antony declares: “She is cunning beyond the thought of man” (I.ii.145). This statement is then followed by Enobarbus' statement about Cleopatra: “…her passions are made only of the finest part of pure love. We cannot call it “winds and waters, sighs and tears”; these are storms and tempests greater than the almanacs can record. It can't be cunning about her; if so, she demonstrates /rain as well as Jupiter” (I.ii.146-151). In this quote, Enobarbus shows great respect and admiration towards Cleopatra. Not only does he defend her against Antony's statement, but he also regards her with such esteem that he compares her to Jupiter, the chief of the gods responsible for rain, thunder and lightning..