Memories of Carthage is a poignant psychological drama that intertwines the harsh realities of dementia with the timeless allure of Roman mythology. Set across different time periods, the story centers on Sybil Dryden, an esteemed emeritus professor of classics, whose mind is unraveling after the sudden death of her husband, Arthur. As Sybil grapples with Alzheimer's, she begins to hallucinate visions of the ancient poet Virgil, who guides her through a surreal quest to find Aeneas, whom she conflates with Arthur. This journey becomes a metaphor for her desperate search for closure and identity amidst fading memories.

The narrative unfolds through a series of interconnected sequences that blend past and present. In the modern day, Sybil lives with her son, Evander 'Ev' Dryden, a psychologist struggling to balance his career and caregiving duties, and her granddaughter, Beatrice 'Bee' Dryden, a bright university student passionate about classics. The family dynamics are strained as Sybil's condition worsens, marked by moments of lucidity and confusion, such as when she mistakes everyday objects or engages in vivid hallucinations. A turning point comes when Sybil, influenced by her delusions, insists on a trip to London, believing it will lead her to Aeneas. Accompanied by Ev and Bee, they embark on this odyssey, visiting places tied to classical literature and their family history, including pubs, churches, and art galleries.

Along the way, they meet Ana Stojanović, a refugee and former classics student who bonds with the family over shared interests in mythology and literature. Ana's presence adds depth, highlighting themes of loss and resilience, as she shares her own traumatic experiences fleeing war. The trip is punctuated by emotional flashbacks that reveal key moments from Sybil and Arthur's life, such as their honeymoon in Italy, the tragic loss of their infant daughter Anthea, and Arthur's sudden death during a cruise retracing Aeneas's journey. These vignettes underscore the story's exploration of grief, memory, and the passage of time, with Virgil serving as a spectral guide who offers cryptic advice through the 'Sortes Virgilianae,' a method of divination using random passages from his epic poem.

As the group navigates London's landmarks, Sybil's hallucinations intensify, blending reality with myth. She dances with invisible figures, argues with Virgil, and experiences moments of profound insight and sorrow. The climax occurs in a scrapyard named Phoenix, symbolizing renewal and destruction, where Sybil's quest culminates in a cathartic dance that merges her memories into a whirlwind of petals and light. This scene brings closure to her search, allowing her to reconnect with Arthur in a hallucinatory farewell. The story arc builds from denial and confusion to acceptance, emphasizing the fragility of the human mind and the enduring power of love and legacy.

Throughout, the film delicately balances heartache with moments of humor and beauty, using classical references to illuminate Sybil's internal struggle. The resolution is bittersweet, as Sybil finds peace in her delusions, but the family is left to cope with their loss. Memories of Carthage ultimately portrays dementia not just as a decline, but as a poetic unraveling, where the boundaries between history, myth, and personal experience blur, offering a moving reflection on what it means to remember and be remembered.

• In a dimly lit villa in Brundisium, Italy, on the night of September 19 BCE, the ailing poet Virgil, feverish and despairing over his unfinished epic, the Aeneid, is confronted by Emperor Augustus. The emperor, having heard rumors of Virgil's intent to burn the manuscript, passionately forbids it, praising the poem's potential to surpass Homer's work and promising Virgil immortality through his words. Despite Augustus's reassurances, Virgil laments his impending death and the incompleteness of his masterpiece. After Augustus takes the papyrus and leaves, Virgil experiences a surreal moment as shadows on the wall transform into a dancing couple, leading him to reflect on mortal sorrows before the scene fades to darkness.
• In a dimly lit construction site in 1965 London, two spectral Roman legionnaires march through the darkness, discussing their discomfort and poetry about the damned. A sudden crash reveals them to two workmen, Sybil, and Arthur, who watch in stunned silence as the ghostly figures vanish into the shadows. The scene leaves the modern witnesses bewildered and questioning the nature of what they just witnessed.
• In a smoky London pub, Arthur and Sybil grapple with the aftermath of a mysterious sighting of Legionnaires, unsure if it was real or a hallucination. As they discuss the implications of their experience, Arthur reveals a bronze torc he has taken, prompting Sybil's alarm about the potential consequences. They agree to keep their encounter and the torc a secret, ending the scene with a conspiratorial tone as Arthur playfully gestures for silence.
• Evander 'Ev' Dryden swims in the calm waters of Bournemouth Beach, showcasing his strength and discipline. After a refreshing swim, he dries off, changes into casual clothes, and prepares for a bike ride. The scene captures the serene atmosphere of a late spring morning, filled with the energy of others enjoying the promenade, before Ev cycles away, continuing his invigorating routine.
• In the morning at the Dryden house, Ev stores his bike and enters the kitchen, where he finds a brochure for 'The Aeneid Way' tour. After a brief discussion with his daughter Bee about her grandmother Sybil's forgetfulness, Sybil enters and mistakenly mentions ironing, only to be disheartened when Ev points out the iron in the fridge. This leads to a tense argument between Ev and Bee about how to care for Sybil, highlighting their differing priorities of safety versus dignity. Despite their conflict, they share a moment of vulnerability and affection, reflecting on the challenges of caregiving since Arthur's death.
• In the Dryden house study, Dr. George Castro meets with Ev and Bee to discuss Sybil's dementia, triggered by Arthur's death. Castro explains Sybil's condition, revealing her confusion between reality and the myth of Dido and Aeneas as a coping mechanism. Ev expresses shock and dread about Sybil's decline, while Bee weeps in grief. Castro suggests music therapy to help preserve Sybil's memories and invites them to a garden party book launch. The scene captures the family's emotional turmoil and the somber reality of Sybil's diagnosis, ending with Ev and Castro leaving the room together.
• In this poignant scene, Ev and Castro discuss the challenges of caring for Ev's mother with Alzheimer's while grappling with the implications of AI in writing. Castro offers sympathy and advice, highlighting the emotional toll on Ev, who feels overwhelmed by his responsibilities. As they converse, Ev uses a metaphor of juggling glass bottles to express his fears of failure. The scene captures the tension between human vulnerability and technological advancement, culminating in Ev's emotional moment as he wipes away tears and listens to the birds before entering the house.
• In the study of Dryden House, Ev and Bee engage in a heartfelt conversation about loss, guilt, and the passage of time. Bee expresses her belief that her birth caused her mother's death, prompting Ev to use humor to alleviate her guilt. They discuss Ev's reluctance to remarry, revealing his deep emotional connection to his late wife. The mood shifts when Sybil enters silently, activating music that leads into her flashback, marking a poignant transition in the scene.
• In a poignant scene, Sybil visits her late husband Arthur's grave with her children, Bee and Ev, expressing her grief and doubts about his peace. The moment transitions to the present, where Sybil sings a comforting aria while her children engage in light-hearted debates about literary characters and fate. As they navigate their emotions, Sybil retrieves a torc from Arthur's desk, symbolizing connection and memory, before the scene hints at another flashback with a faint trumpet theme.
• In a nostalgic scene, Sybil, Ev, and Bee reflect on family history as they navigate memories of Arthur and a mysterious torc linked to Boudica. A flashback to 2004 reveals Arthur's playful nature and Ev's concern for Clara, while in the present, Bee humorously mimics Boudica before returning the torc. As they prepare to drive to university, Sybil reminisces about her past with Arthur, blending humor and bittersweet emotions.
• In this scene set inside Ev's car, Sybil sits in the backseat, appearing emotionally reflective. Ev, the driver, checks on her well-being while expressing frustration at a hesitant learner driver, leading to a sharp brake. Bee lightens the mood by playfully suggesting Ev practice mindfulness to avoid stressing Sybil, creating a blend of concern, humor, and emotional vulnerability.
• In the study of Dryden House at dusk, Sybil, Ev, and Bee prepare for a book launch party. Bee seeks advice on her outfit and a torc, which Ev warns against wearing due to potential recognition. Sybil encourages Bee to wear the torc, leading to a playful moment where they share a brief waltz. Their interaction turns emotional as Sybil reflects on Bee's grandfather's pride in her, while Bee expresses concern for Sybil's feelings. The scene shifts from light-heartedness to poignant nostalgia as Sybil's vacant expression hints at unresolved grief, culminating in a flashback accompanied by soft music.
• In Scene 13, Sybil and Arthur, an elderly couple, arrive at Bournemouth Comprehensive School in the morning, joining a lively crowd of students. They navigate through the bustling reception area, where the receptionist silently gestures for them to sit. After a short wait, Mr. Fulbright, the head teacher, invites them into his office, marking a smooth and routine visit without any dialogue.
• In a flashback, Fulbright meets with Sybil and Arthur Dryden to discuss their granddaughter Bee's altercation with a boy named George Smith, whom Bee punched after he allegedly harassed her. Fulbright downplays the incident, suggesting Bee should expect such behavior, which infuriates Sybil, who defends Bee fiercely and threatens legal action against George. Arthur supports Sybil, recalling how he taught Bee to fight. The scene shifts to the present, where Ev playfully calls Bee 'Boudica' and they discuss Sybil's health, expressing concern about her well-being and the possibility of her needing to go into a home.
• At Dr. Castro's book launch party in the Alba Ornamental Garden, guests mingle under the night sky, adorned with Greek chorus masks. The atmosphere is festive yet tinged with bittersweet emotions as Sybil reflects on her declining health after reading a dedication in Castro's book. Bee comforts her with a hug, while Ev encourages them to explore the gardens. The scene captures the contrast between celebration and personal sorrow, culminating in Sybil's flashback as ceremonial music plays.
• The scene opens with a joyful flashback to 1975, where Sybil, celebrated for her groundbreaking feminist book on Dido, enjoys the company of her academic peers at Southampton University. The mood shifts to the present day, where Ev expresses concern over Sybil's declining health during a social event. He shares light-hearted banter with Castro, who offers support and suggests finding Sybil and Bee to ease Ev's worries. The contrasting tones highlight themes of nostalgia, familial bonds, and the bittersweet nature of time.
• In a serene garden at night, Sybil, Bee, and Ana Stojanović engage in a heartfelt conversation about academia and personal struggles. Ana, a refugee with a passion for classics, learns about Sybil's dementia and her identity confusion as she oscillates between being herself and Dido. The exchange fosters empathy and understanding, culminating in an invitation for coffee in London. As cherry blossoms swirl around them, Castro checks on the group, and Sybil reassures him of their well-being, highlighting themes of loss and human connection amidst the backdrop of fading memories.
• In Scene 18, Sybil experiences a nostalgic flashback to her graduation ceremony at University College London, where she shares a tender moment with Arthur. As the memory fades, the scene shifts to the present, where petals fall on Sybil and Bee, prompting Sybil to reflect on the lovely memory. Bee agrees, quietly vowing to remember it for both of them, hinting at a deeper concern. The scene is filled with warmth and affection, capturing the beauty of cherished memories.
• In this poignant scene, Bee decorates her bedroom with a framed photograph of Frida Kahlo and engages in a hopeful text conversation with Ana about a pop-up event. When Sybil visits, she shares her fears of aging and memory loss, illustrating her struggles with a humorous yet troubling example. Despite her attempts to use technology to preserve her memories, Sybil feels increasingly lost. Bee comforts her, promising to remember her as the strong feminist she is, and offers to accompany her to a meeting that could help Sybil reconnect with her past, asserting her loyalty against any family opposition.
• In the Dryden home study, Ev firmly denies Sybil and Bee's request to travel to London to find Aeneas, despite Sybil's emotional appeal driven by her deteriorating memory. As tensions rise, Sybil's vulnerability is exposed when she accidentally wets herself, prompting Ev to show compassion. Bee supports Sybil, challenging Ev's authority and helping her to the bathroom, where Sybil drapes a towel over her head like a bridal veil, triggering a poignant flashback. The scene explores themes of aging, memory loss, and family conflict, leaving Ev alone in grief over Sybil's condition.
• In a poignant flashback to Sybil and Arthur's wedding at the Church of St Bartholomew the Great, the couple exchanges vows filled with love and humor, highlighted by Sybil's playful omission of 'obey.' The scene captures the solemn beauty of the church, culminating in their affectionate kiss. Transitioning to the present, Sybil, now nostalgic, removes a towel she had draped over her head like a veil and hands it to Bee, expressing a bittersweet wish to attend Bee's wedding but fearing that fate may prevent it.
• In Sybil's bedroom at night, the elderly woman converses with the ghostly figure of Virgil, who criticizes her age and ambitions to find Aeneas and aid her granddaughter. Their heated exchange reveals mutual resentment, with Virgil lamenting his literary legacy and Sybil defending his work. A digital interface on her phone symbolizes a descent into the mythological underworld, leading to reflections on aging and regret. After Virgil abruptly vanishes, Sybil is left in confusion, contemplating the passage of time and her irreversible decline.
• In the kitchen of Dryden House, Ev, Bee, and Sybil discuss a dream Sybil had involving the phrase 'Sortes Vergilianae,' which leads to a conversation about using ancient texts as omens. While Sybil is hopeful about finding her sister Ana, Ev remains skeptical and dismissive of the mystical elements. Bee supports Sybil's ideas, creating tension between the characters. The scene culminates with Bee putting on a torc and announcing their need to take action, shifting the focus towards a plan involving their Grandad, Arthur.
• At dusk in London, Ev, Bee, and Sybil gather in front of the Boudica statue. Bee twists a torc onto her neck as they discuss Boudica's legacy, debating her status as a feminist icon. Sybil engages in a private conversation with the invisible Virgil, who criticizes Boudica's rebellion, leading to humorous exchanges among the group. The scene ends with Ev hailing a taxi, hinting at their next destination.
• In a London taxi, EV and the driver discuss the historical horrors of the Iceni's destruction of London, as recounted by Tacitus. Sybil interjects with a sarcastic remark about modern migrant crises, prompting a flashback triggered by the music 'Sound the Trumpet.' The scene contrasts romanticized history with contemporary issues, highlighting a thematic conflict between past and present atrocities.
• On the deck of the MV Palinurus in the Aegean Sea during summer 2015, passengers are startled by the ship's siren and a voice-over from the captain announcing a change in itinerary for a maritime rescue operation. Flares illuminate the horizon as a dinghy is launched, returning with wet and distressed individuals, including two deceased, covered in blankets. Sybil and Arthur rush to assist in the rescue, while the atmosphere shifts from fear to compassion as the passengers witness the unfolding tragedy. The scene concludes with the music fading, marking the end of the flashback.
• As dusk settles outside the Golden Fleece pub in London, Ev expresses disappointment about their location and questions Virgil's intentions. Sybil warns him against mocking the situation, leading to a tense exchange where Ev rolls his eyes and sarcastically calls her 'Mum' in a bid to deflect the tension. The scene captures the friction between the characters, highlighted by Ev's sarcasm and Sybil's authoritative stance, all set against the inviting backdrop of the pub's historic architecture.
• In The Golden Fleece pub, Ev and Sybil engage in a mystical conversation as Sybil consults the Aeneid for guidance. She reads a passage about sorrowful ghosts, interpreting it as a sign to go to The Strand. Meanwhile, Virgil, present in the pub, interacts with a jukebox playing a song about the Strand, which Ev finds coincidentally ironic. Despite Ev's skepticism, they decide to leave the pub together, with Virgil following them.
• In this scene, Ev, Bee, and Sybil stand before the statue of Samuel Johnson in London, where Sybil reveals that Johnson wrote about Ev's ancestor, John Dryden, in his Lives of the Poets. Ev expresses impatience and concern for Sybil's safety, while Bee encourages him to be patient. Sybil reads a line from the Aeneid, insisting they hurry to their next destination, Christchurch Gardens. The scene transitions to a black cab, highlighting the group's tension as they navigate their quest.
• In this scene, Ev, Bee, and Sybil visit Christchurch Gardens at night, where Sybil excitedly discusses the statue of Henry Purcell and its historical significance. Ev, annoyed by her enthusiasm, dismisses her ideas as mere memories and insists they leave. Despite Sybil's excitement, Ev pulls her closer and they hail a taxi, ending their visit amidst a tense atmosphere.
• In this scene, Ev, Bee, and Sybil catch their breath in a black cab as they head to Hazlitt's. Sybil expresses her belief that they are being guided by Virgil, which Ev skeptically dismisses. Bee affectionately supports Sybil's poetic nature. As Sybil gazes out the window, a flashback is triggered, evoking imagery of young lovers and Mediterranean light, accompanied by a gentle mandolin melody.
• In Naples, Arthur and Sybil, a young couple, arrive at Parco Vergiliano a Piedigrotta after a taxi ride. Arthur thanks the driver in Italian, receiving praise for his language skills. They share a moment together as they read a sign about the park and the tomb of the poet Virgil, reflecting their appreciation for the cultural experience.
• In this nostalgic flashback, Arthur and Sybil enjoy their honeymoon at Virgil's tomb in Naples, Italy. Surrounded by wildflowers and sunlight, they share playful banter as Sybil humorously mimics a tour guide, explaining Virgil's burial history. Their affectionate interactions highlight their romantic connection, with flirtatious discussions about dinner plans. The scene shifts to the present, where Sybil, now emotional, reflects on the memory while in a taxi, tears welling up as she presses her face against the window.
• In this flashback scene, Sybil and Arthur stroll through the Non-Catholic Cemetery in Rome, reflecting on the graves of poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley. They discuss the irony of Keats' fame despite his wish for anonymity and contemplate the meaning of Shelley's inscription about transformation after death. Their conversation shifts from somber reflections on mortality to playful flirtation, with Sybil joking about reincarnating as flowers and Arthur suggesting they return to their hotel for intimate moments. The scene concludes with a transition back to the present, where Sybil is emotional in a taxi.
• In a moving black cab, Sybil, still emotional from a recent memory, shares bittersweet reflections on her honeymoon in Italy with her late husband Arthur. Ev expresses concern for Sybil's well-being, prompting her to discuss her fond memories, including their shared love for roses and Arthur's understanding of her passions. Bee offers gentle support, encouraging Sybil to elaborate on her past. The scene captures Sybil's internal struggle with grief, set against the backdrop of the historic streets of Soho as the cab approaches Hazlitt's.
• In a luxurious 18th-century hotel suite, Ev pours wine for himself, Bee, and Sybil, who unexpectedly pours some onto the carpet as a libation, frustrating Ev. Despite his annoyance, he calls housekeeping and engages in light-hearted banter with Sybil. Bee advocates for staying longer to support Sybil's enjoyment, prompting Ev to reflect on her happiness amidst her deteriorating condition. The scene blends humor with familial concern as Sybil steps away to the bathroom, leaving Ev and Bee to discuss her well-being.
• In the opulent bathroom of the Hazlitt Hotel suite, Sybil confronts her inner turmoil while gazing into the mirror, engaging in a witty yet confrontational dialogue with Virgil, who appears as a figment of her imagination. They discuss her strained relationship with her son Ev and her superstitious actions, leading to a playful yet introspective exchange about reality and narrative tropes. The scene blends humor and melancholy, culminating in Virgil's sardonic remark, 'When in Rome,' as he remains a persistent presence in Sybil's mind.
• In the lounge of the Hazlitt Hotel suite at night, Sybil reassures Ev about her drinking habits while engaging in light banter with Bee about a rude acquaintance named Virgil. Ev expresses concern by attempting to take Sybil's wine glass, but Sybil evades her, promising not to drink more. The scene ends with a transition into Sybil's flashback, accompanied by the bright and ceremonial Overture from Dido and Aeneas.
• In a hospital room filled with warm daylight, a flashback reveals young Sybil and Arthur celebrating the birth of their son, Evander, with a heartfelt libation. The scene transitions to the present where older Sybil shares the memory with Bee and Ev, leading to light-hearted discussions about art and history. As they reminisce, Ev's impatience is playfully teased, ending with him announcing it's time for bed.
• In scene 40, Ev, Bee, and Sybil enter the Gallery of the Heart, where they admire Frida Kahlo's artwork while soft music plays. They meet Ana, a classics student, and split into pairs to explore. Ev feels anxious about classical references that may upset Sybil, who experiences a hallucination arguing with invisible figures of Virgil and Kahlo. Bee intervenes to help Sybil, and the group decides to leave the gallery, planning a future dinner as they exit, with Sybil glancing back at her spectral confrontation.
• In the lounge of a hotel suite, Sybil, an elderly woman, expresses her embarrassment over hallucinations and contemplates moving to a care home. Her granddaughter Bee comforts her, taking the blame for the incident, while Ev, Sybil's son, reassures them both and suggests that Sybil rest. They discuss a future outing with Ana, emphasizing family support and the importance of addressing Sybil's emotional distress.
• In the intimate breakfast room of Hazlitt's Hotel, Sybil, Bee, and Ev enjoy a serene morning. As they finish their meal, Sybil reads a poignant passage from Dryden's translation of The Aeneid, describing Aeneas in the Underworld. Ev, intrigued by the reading, poses a question about its implications, while Bee remains silent. The scene captures a tranquil and intellectual atmosphere, filled with the scents of breakfast and the soft sounds of conversation.
• In Scene 43, set outside the Church of St Giles-without-Cripplegate amidst the modern Barbican estate, Bee admires the church's beauty and expresses confusion about their purpose there. Sybil suggests they enter, as Aeneas might be inside. Bee gently takes Sybil's arm, guiding her towards the church entrance, marking a moment of transition as they prepare to go indoors.
• In scene 44, set in St Giles-Without-Cripplegate church, Ev, Bee, and Sybil encounter a bust of John Milton and a plaque praising him over Homer and Virgil. Ev's confusion prompts Bee to explain Milton's literary significance. Virgil, feeling insulted by the comparison, converses with Sybil in Latin, revealing his sensitivity as a poet. Ev connects their presence to the Sortes Virgilianae prophecy, particularly regarding Milton's lost children, which deeply affects Sybil. As she sobs, Bee comforts her, while Ev reflects on the church's beauty. The scene transitions into Sybil's flashback, shifting the narrative focus.
• In the nursery of Sybil and Arthur's home, Sybil comforts their crying one-month-old baby, Anthea, who is suffering from colic. Arthur, concerned for both his wife and child, suggests calling the doctor, but Sybil reassures him that it's just colic and urges him to rest for his important lecture the next day. Despite her exhaustion, she insists she can manage. Arthur, showing affection, kisses both Sybil and Anthea before leaving the room, highlighting their mutual support amidst the challenges of new parenthood.
• Scene 46 opens with a flashback of Sybil and Arthur's home, where Sybil frantically wakes Arthur to call an ambulance for their unresponsive child, Anthea. The scene shifts to the present, depicting Sybil in deep sorrow as she exits a church after a funeral, supported by Ev and Bee. Sybil expresses overwhelming guilt for falling asleep and losing both her children, leaving Bee confused and prompting her to seek clarification from Ev. The scene ends with Bee's question, leading into Ev's flashback.
• In this poignant scene, Bee presses Ev for answers about a troubling topic, prompting a flashback to Young Ev's desperate search for comfort from Sybil in Dryden House. Young Ev, filled with anxiety, questions Sybil about his family's distress, but receives no response, highlighting his feelings of abandonment. The scene shifts back to the present where Ev deflects Bee's inquiry, leaving both characters in unresolved tension.
• In the Hazlitt Hotel suite, Ev and Bee share a moment of introspection as Ev expresses his concerns about his mother's severe depression following a traumatic loss. Bee offers comfort and suggests they continue with their plans, but Ev, feeling overwhelmed, opts for a simpler dinner to avoid further emotional distress. The scene highlights their emotional connection and the struggle between honoring Ev's mother's memory and seeking peace.
• In scene 49, set outside the Flor y Canto Mexican restaurant in Marylebone, London, Ev, Bee, and Sybil gather at dusk. Sybil questions the change in plans, preferring to wait outside for Ana, while Ev, anxious to cheer her up, initially insists on going inside but ultimately agrees to wait. Ana arrives, warmly greeted by the group, and Ev lightens the mood with a joke about blaming Bee for the restaurant choice. The scene transitions from initial reluctance to warmth and humor as they prepare to enter the restaurant together.
• In scene 50, Bee, Ev, Sybil, and Ana dine at the Aztec-themed Flor y Canto restaurant, where they engage in light-hearted discussions about poetry and share personal stories. Ana recounts the tragic death of her grandmother, creating a poignant moment that Ev lightens with a toast to life's complexities. The scene features humorous interactions, particularly with the ghostly Virgil, and culminates in a subtle romantic connection between Ev and Ana, while Sybil and Bee express optimism about their budding relationship. The evening ends with the group leaving the restaurant, enriched by their shared experiences.
• In the morning lounge of the Hazlitt Hotel suite, Ev writes a poem titled 'Ode to Anthea,' revealing his introspective state. Bee enters, engages Ev in conversation about his writing and his thoughts on Ana, and reads his poem aloud, prompting a positive response from an AI named Avernus. As Bee expresses her support for Ev's writing, she also probes into his memories of his sister, which Ev finds difficult to discuss. The scene ends with Ev's admission of limited memories, leading into a flashback.
• In a poignant scene that transitions from a childhood flashback in a hospital room to a present-day conversation, Ev and his daughter Bee discuss the possibility of Ev dating Ana, whom Bee believes could be a new love interest. While Ev grapples with existential fears and the impermanence of life, Bee counters with humor and philosophical insights, encouraging him to embrace new relationships. Their playful banter lightens the mood, culminating in Ev's eagerness to meet Ana as they prepare to leave, highlighting themes of love, loss, and familial support.
• In the elegantly faded lobby of Hazlitt's Hotel, Ana greets Ev, Bee, and Sybil with warmth, hugging Bee and Sybil while offering a stiff handshake to Ev, who humorously claims she broke his fingers. Bee explains Ev's 'dad joke' to Ana and warns him to keep his humor in check. The group discusses their next destination, Poet's Corner in Westminster Abbey, where they hope to find Aeneas, blending light-hearted interactions with an underlying urgency.
• In scene 54, set in Poet's Corner of Westminster Abbey, Sybil deciphers a clue from Chaucer's memorial that leads her to believe Aeneas is at 'The Swan and Hare' pub. As the group prepares to leave, Bee reassures Ana, who is emotional about her traumatic memories associated with eagles. Ev provides comfort to Ana, while light-hearted banter ensues between Bee and Ev about drinking. The scene blends adventure, familial tension, and poignant reflections as they set off for their next destination.
• In a cozy London gastropub, Ev casually brings a pint of beer to the table, prompting a disapproving glare from Bee. Sybil reflects on the changes in the pub since her last visit with Arthur, expressing mixed feelings about the nostalgia it evokes. The scene captures the underlying tension between the characters, particularly after Ev's previous emotional apology, and concludes with a transition to Sybil's flashback, set against celebratory music.
• In this scene, a flashback reveals a lively lecture on the MV Palinurus, where Professor Sybil Dryden captivates passengers with the tale of Dido and Carthage, aided by her husband Arthur's engaging demonstration. The atmosphere is bright and educational, filled with laughter and applause. Transitioning to the present, Sybil, now confused and disoriented, shares a café table with Ana and Bee, who support her as she struggles with her surroundings. A framed picture of the Acropolis draws her attention, leading to another flashback, underscoring her connection to classical themes.
• In this flashback scene, Sybil and Arthur guide a tourist group through the historic ruins of Carthage, where Sybil passionately shares the site's rich history. A humorous exchange with a tourist lightens the mood, but the tone shifts dramatically when Arthur, feeling unwell, collapses after sending Sybil ahead. The scene ends with Sybil's alarming discovery of Arthur on the ground, marking a poignant moment amidst the educational backdrop.
• In the evening lounge of the Hazlitt Hotel suite, Ev expresses exhaustion and skepticism about finding Aeneas, addressing Sybil as 'Mum'. Sybil, disappointed with Virgil's 'Sortes' method, reveals she consulted 'Avernus' for a new search location linked to Carthage. She proposes one last effort to find Aeneas, promising a big dinner and a return home if they fail. The scene captures the weariness and determination of the characters as they navigate their search.
• In the poignant final scene at the Phoenix Scrapyard, Sybil, Ev, Bee, and Ana confront their past and present as Sybil, in a delusional state, interacts with hallucinations of her late husband Arthur and Virgil. Amidst emotional reconciliations and heartfelt dances, Sybil shares apologies with Ev and expresses gratitude to Bee. As they waltz through a dream-like landscape of memories, Sybil finds closure with Arthur before collapsing, leaving her family to rush to her side as 'Dido's Lament' plays, marking a bittersweet farewell.

Act 1

• Seq 1:

  Virgil lies dying, forbidden by Emperor Augustus from burning his unfinished epic poem the Aeneid, and experiences a surreal vision of dancing shadows that foreshadows the film's themes of memory and eternity.

• Seq 2:

  Young Sybil and Arthur witness ghostly Roman legionnaires marching through a construction site in 1965, then retreat to a pub where they agree to keep the experience secret to avoid being thought crazy, while Arthur reveals a mysterious bronze torc.

• Seq 3:

  Ev returns from swimming to find evidence of Sybil's memory issues, leading to a psychiatric consultation where Dr. Castro diagnoses Alzheimer's triggered by Arthur's death, explaining her mythological confusions and suggesting therapeutic approaches, while Ev grapples with the emotional and practical implications.

• Seq 4:

  Ev and Bee discuss their past and writing careers, triggering Sybil's memories of Arthur's funeral and Bee's birth, with the torc serving as a memory catalyst that leads to discussions of family history and a car ride where Sybil's emotional state becomes evident.

• Seq 5:

  The family prepares for the book launch, with Bee wearing the torc despite Ev's concerns, triggering a flashback to Bee's school incident where she punched a boy and Sybil defended her fiercely, then returning to the present where they discuss Sybil's condition and hopes for improvement.

• Seq 6:

  The family attends Castro's elaborate book launch in classical gardens, where Sybil experiences emotional moments recognizing her contribution to his work, meets refugee classics student Ana who bonds with them over shared interests, and experiences flashbacks to her academic achievements, culminating in plans to meet in London.

• Seq 7:

  Bee texts with Ana about meeting in London, then Sybil enters expressing deep fears about being remembered only as a 'mad old woman' rather than her accomplished self, attempting unsuccessfully to use technology to preserve memories, and finding comfort in Bee's promise to remember her true self and accompany her to London.

Act 2a

• Seq 1:

  The sequence begins with Sybil's emotional plea to Ev for permission to travel to London, marked by her vulnerable moment of incontinence that shifts the family dynamic. This is followed by a wedding flashback triggered by the towel incident, reinforcing Sybil's connection to Arthur and London. The sequence continues with Sybil's nighttime confrontation with Virgil, who discourages her quest, and culminates in the kitchen scene where Sybil introduces the Sortes Vergilianae concept, convincing Ev through classical references and family connections to embark on the London journey.

• Seq 2:

  The sequence opens at the Boudica statue where Virgil appears to Sybil, criticizing Boudica's rebellion against Rome in Latin. This establishes the mythological guidance theme. They then take a taxi to The Golden Fleece, during which the driver's historical account of Boudica's destruction of London and the migrant crisis newspaper headline trigger Sybil's flashback to the 2015 maritime rescue operation where she and Arthur helped refugees, connecting past humanitarian crises with present ones.

• Seq 3:

  The group arrives at The Golden Fleece pub where Ev expresses skepticism. Inside, Sybil performs the Sortes Vergilianae ritual, randomly selecting a passage from the Aeneid that mentions ghosts in sorrow. Virgil appears by the jukebox which coincidentally plays a song about going to The Strand, confirming the omen. They proceed to The Strand where Sybil connects the location to Samuel Johnson's writings about John Dryden, then reads another Aeneid passage about the 'Son of the God of Winds,' leading them to choose Christchurch Gardens as their next destination.

• Seq 4:

  At Christchurch Gardens, Sybil excitedly points out the Purcell statue and its connection to Dryden, but Ev reaches his breaking point, dismissing the entire quest as nonsense and insisting they return to the hotel and go home. He physically pulls Sybil away as they hail a taxi. In the cab, Sybil maintains that Virgil is guiding them through the 'sea of time,' but Ev disagrees, though Bee supports Sybil. The sequence ends with Sybil looking out the window, triggering a honeymoon flashback.

• Seq 5:

  Triggered by Sybil's emotional state, extended flashbacks show Sybil and Arthur's honeymoon in Italy visiting Virgil's tomb and the Non-Catholic Cemetery in Rome where they discuss poets' graves and transformation. These memories contrast their vibrant past with Sybil's present grief. Returning to the taxi, Sybil shares fond memories of Arthur with Ev and Bee, reflecting on life's fleeting beauty and Arthur's understanding of what mattered to her, which emotionally prepares her to continue the quest.

• Seq 6:

  The group arrives at Hazlitt's Hotel where Sybil pours wine as a libation, causing tension with Ev. In the bathroom, Sybil confronts Virgil about his rudeness and questions whether he's real. Back in the lounge, Ev tries to take Sybil's wine glass, concerned about her drinking. This triggers a flashback to Sybil and Arthur's hospital room after Evander's birth, where Arthur also performed a libation. The sequence ends with Bee revealing they'll meet Ana at an art gallery tomorrow, and Sybil teasing Ev about his impatience, showing their relationship has softened.

Act 2b

• Seq 1:

  The family visits the gallery where Sybil's hallucinations intensify as she argues with spectral figures of Virgil and Frida Kahlo, causing public embarrassment and forcing an early exit. Later in the hotel, Sybil expresses shame and suggests moving to a care home, while Bee and Ev reassure her and plan for the next day's dinner with Ana.

• Seq 2:

  Sybil reads from The Aeneid about the Underworld, prompting the group to visit St Giles Church where they discover the Milton bust and Dryden's poem. Virgil appears feeling mocked, and Sybil connects the 'cries of babes' to Milton's lost children and their own tragedy with Anthea, triggering her emotional breakdown and flashback.

• Seq 3:

  Flashbacks reveal the night before Anthea's death with Sybil caring for her colicky baby, followed by the morning discovery of her not breathing. Returning to present, Sybil expresses guilt over losing both children, triggering young Ev's memory of finding his mother depressed and abandoned after the tragedy.

• Seq 4:

  Ev and Bee discuss Sybil's condition and the painful memories, deciding to continue but avoid classical triggers. They change dinner plans to a neutral restaurant where Sybil interacts with Virgil during dinner and Ana shares her own trauma. The next morning, Ev writes poetry about Anthea, revealing his ongoing grief and connecting with Bee about their shared loss.

Act 3

• Seq 1:

  Bee reveals her matchmaking plan to set up Ev with Ana, leading to a philosophical debate about love and loss between father and daughter. The scene transitions to their arrival in the hotel lobby where awkward introductions occur, with Bee coaching Ev on proper behavior and Sybil remaining focused on her mythological quest.

• Seq 2:

  At Westminster Abbey, Sybil deciphers a clue from Chaucer's memorial involving eagles that points to 'The Swan and Hare' pub. While Sybil remains focused on her quest, emotional moments occur as Ana reveals trauma associated with eagles and Ev comforts her, creating tension between the mythological search and real-world emotional connections.

• Seq 3:

  The group arrives at The Swan and Hare where Sybil notes how the pub has changed since her visits with Arthur, triggering memories of their cruise. This leads to a flashback of Sybil and Arthur's collaborative lecture aboard the MV Palinurus, demonstrating their intellectual partnership and shared passion for classical studies. Returning to the present, Sybil becomes confused but is gently guided by Ana who engages her about returning to classics studies.

• Seq 4:

  A intense flashback to Carthage ruins where Sybil and Arthur lead a tourist group, with Sybil delivering educational commentary about Carthage's destruction. The memory culminates in Arthur collapsing suddenly, representing the traumatic moment of his death that haunts Sybil's present journey.

• Seq 5:

  After exhaustion and doubt set in, Sybil consults Virgil's 'Sortes' method one last time and discovers a clue pointing to 'Avernus' and renewal, leading them to Phoenix Scrapyard. The sequence culminates in Sybil's cathartic dance with hallucinations of Arthur and Virgil, merging memory and myth into a final moment of acceptance and closure before her collapse.