Octavius Caesar (Shakespeare)

Octavius is Caesar’s great-nephew and adopted son, and, as stated in his will, the heir to his empire. Within the play, Octavius functions as a contrast to Mark Antony. Antony proves himself to be a skilled politician, while Octavius is man of action and lacks Antony’s political cunning. The two join forces once Octavius arrives in Rome following the death of Caesar, but their personalities clash. Octavius pushes back when Antony insults Lepidus, the third member of their triumvirate, and although Antony characterizes Octavius as young and inexperienced, Octavius stands firm in his decisions when the battle ensues.