Question

cleopatra. o charmian, i will never go from hence.
charmian. be comforted, dear madam.
cleopatra. no, i will not.
all strange and terrible events are welcome,
but comforts we despise. our size of sorrow,
proportioned to our cause, must be as great
as that which makes it.
*aloft: on the upper stage.
** charmian and iris: two ladies - in - waiting to cleopatra.

1. what does the dialogue between cleopatra and charmian reveal about their relationship?

a. it shows that charmian is cleopatra’s subordinate, addressing cleopatra with respect, but that cleopatra treats her as a friend, sharing her feelings with her.
b. it shows that charmian is cleopatra’s subordinate, addressing cleopatra with respect, and that cleopatra treats her as a servant, expecting obedience.
c. it shows that charmian is cleopatra’s equal, giving cleopatra advice, but that cleopatra views her as an inferior, rejecting the comfort she offers.

Explanation:

To determine the answer, we analyze the dialogue: Charmian addresses Cleopatra as "dear Madam" (showing respect, indicating a subordinate role). Cleopatra shares her feelings about welcoming terrible events and despising comforts, suggesting she treats Charmian as a friend (not just a servant or inferior). Option A aligns with this: Charmian is subordinate (respectful address), Cleopatra shares feelings (treating as friend). Option B says Cleopatra treats her as a servant (but she shares feelings, not just expecting obedience). Option C says Charmian is equal (but her address is respectful, subordinate - like) and Cleopatra views her as inferior (but she shares feelings, not rejecting as inferior).

Answer:

A. It shows that Charmian is Cleopatra’s subordinate, addressing Cleopatra with respect, but that Cleopatra treats her as a friend, sharing her feelings with her.