The conversation between Enobarbus, Maecenas and Agrippa that closes the long and important Act 2, scene 2 is one of many in the play that shows the reaction of characters occupying a place one step below the highest level of power. The proximity of Enobarbus, Maecenas and Agrippa to Caesar, Antony, Cleopatra and Lepidus allows them privileged insights into the personalities and temperaments of the central characters they serve. Their perspective shapes and guides the perception of the audience concerning the motivations and mentalities of those in authority.