Choices in Antony and Cleopatra

Whenever Antony or Cleopatra make rash decisions they tend to point out each other's flaws, degrading each other. This constant bickering does not allow for any progression in their relationship, or any relationship for that matter. Forgiveness and passion hold Antony and Cleopatra's relationship together and I believe that it may have been the foundation for a very rocky and untrusting relationship. Cleopatra is an inherently calculating woman, in contrast to the passion that Antony feels for her. Antony makes all of his flawed decisions out of his passion for Cleopatra, whereas she only makes decisions to benefit her, like her willingness to listen to Thidias, based on the fact that allying with Caesar would be an advantageous act. Shakespeare is hinting here that passion interferes with reason. I believe that the basis for a good relationship is trust, which would not result in whimsical decisions to prove passion or devotion. Which brings me to my next point, passion is inherently contrary to reason and good judgement. For example:

"ANTONY
I will to Egypt.
And though I make this marriage for my peace,
I' th' East my pleasure lies." Act 2 Scene 3 Lines 44-46

Antony proclaims he’ll go to Egypt, not because of the reason the soothsayer has given him, but because his love and pleasure is there.

Regret is one word that can describe how Antony feels after he makes irreversible profound mistakes out of passion. These types of actions that affect more than just himself, that usual involve his influential governmental role, such as major war decisions. According to a Harvard University manuscript, many psychological scientists now assume that emotions are the dominant driver
of most meaningful decisions in life which serve as the conduit through which emotions guide everyday attempts at avoiding negative feelings (e.g., guilt, fear, regret) and increasing positive feelings (e.g., pride, happiness, love), even when we lack awareness of these processes. Later on after the naval loss the regret seeps back into Antony and Enobarbus makes him feel even worse when he blames Antony's passion for Cleopatra for his loss in the first naval battle.

"CLEOPATRA
Is Antony or we in fault for this?
ENOBARBUS
Antony only, that would make his will
Lord of his reason. What though you fled
From that great face of war, whose several ranges
Frighted each other? Why should he follow?
The itch of his affection should not then
Have nick'd his captainship, at such a point,
When half to half the world opposed, he being
The merèd question. 'Twas a shame no less
Than was his loss, to course your flying flags
And leave his navy gazing." Act 3 Scene 13 Lines 3-13

Enobarbus seems rather enraged by Antony’s own lack of reason or willpower. In fleeing along with Cleopatra, Antony let his passion overrule his reason. Enobarbus believes that Antony had no reason to do this, and in following his passion, Antony has incurred shame as well as loss.