Set in Roman times, the play explores the political machinations between Anthony and Octavian as they negotiate power and eliminate rivals after Caesar's assassination. Anthony's decision to divorce Fulvia for Octavian's sister complicates matters, especially when Julia, who loves Sextus Pompey, arrives unexpectedly. Fulvia conspires with the young lovers for revenge on the two men. In a contrasting comedic narrative, an elderly Voltaire navigates the attentions of a starstruck admirer while his guest, the Prince de Ligne, seizes the opportunity for his own amusement.
