Mark Antony and Octavius’ argument regarding Lepidus’ suitability for the Second Triumvirate.
This argument shows occurs in Act IV, Scene I, of Shakespeare's play, Julius Caesar. Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus had formed the Second Triumvirate. But Antony asserted to Octavius that Lepidus was weak, that he was not suited to be in power over a third of the Roman world. Octavius asserted that Lepidus was a brave and proven soldier, but Antony said his horse could be described the same way. According to Mark Antony, Lepidus should be utilized for their purposes as long as he was useful, but then he and Octavius should take over the power Lepidus temporarily was given.
The theme of power is evident in the argument, in terms of what sort of man is suited to assume and hold power, as well as in the designs on power each man had.
