Cleopatra

NAME Cleopatra VII Philopator

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Last active Pharaoh of Ancient Egypt, lover of Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, played a pivotal role in Egypt's political struggles against Rome.

BIRTH Cleopatra was born in 69 BC, likely in Alexandria, Egypt.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Daughter of Ptolemy XII Auletes ("the Flute Player") and likely his sister, Cleopatra V Tryphaena. She belonged to the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Macedonian-Greek descent., which had ruled Egypt since the death of Alexander the Great. Cleopatra was the eldest surviving child, and had a younger sister named Arsinoë.

CHILDHOOD Cleopatra’s early life was marked by court intrigue, family disputes, and political instability. Her father’s reign was unpopular, and Cleopatra grew up learning the complexities of ruling Egypt.

EDUCATION Exceptionally well-educated, Cleopatra spoke eleven languages, mastered mathematics, and astronomy. She was one of the few Ptolemies to speak Egyptian, further connecting with her subjects.

CAREER RECORD Cleopatra ascended to the throne at age 18 in 52 BC, following the death of her father, initially co-ruling with her younger brother Ptolemy XIII.  Cleopatra's first known act as queen took place on  March 22, 51 BC, when she traveled to Hermonthis to install a new sacred Buchis bull.

50 BC: Ptolemy XIII wrested control, forcing Cleopatra to flee to Syria.

48 BC: Cleopatra returned with an army but fails to regain power at Pelusium.

48 BC: Met Julius Caesar, forming a strategic alliance and romantic relationship.

47 BC: Regained the throne with Caesar's support; Ptolemy XIII dies.

Married younger brother Ptolemy XIV who becomes co-ruler.

44 BC: Orchestrated the murder of Ptolemy XIV securing the throne for herself

APPEARANCE Contrary to her reputation as a great beauty, Cleopatra had masculine features, a hooked nose, and a strong jawline. She was around 5’3” with medium build and curly hair. Her allure came from her intelligence, charisma, and voice, described by Roman historian Plutarch as “a delight merely to hear.”

Marblebust of Cleopatra VII of Egypt 30-40 BC Wikipedia 

FASHION Cleopatra wore elaborate makeup, including green eye paint, kohl eyeliner, and carmine-dyed lips, with 70,000 beetles needed for just one pound of carmine. She often donned a dark wig, papyrus sandals, and fine linen robes.

CHARACTER Charming, shrewd, and ambitious, Cleopatra was a wily political strategist. She was also sensual and bewitching, known for her enchanting personality and quick wit, making her a formidable force in both love and politics.

"The charm of her conversation and the character and intelligence of all that she said was bewitching. It was a delight merely to hear the sound of her voice." Plutarch 

SENSE OF HUMOUR Cleopatra could impressively flaunt her wealth and power with wit, such as dissolving a priceless pearl in vinegar at a banquet with Mark Antony, proving she could consume a fortune in one meal.

RELATIONSHIPS Cleopatra, a figure shrouded in myth and legend, ascended to the throne at a remarkably young age. At twelve, she was forced into a marriage with her younger brother, Ptolemy XIV, a tradition among the Pharaohs.

Her life took a dramatic turn in 48 BC when Julius Caesar, the powerful Roman emperor, arrived in Alexandria. Cleopatra, known for her charm and wit, had herself smuggled into Caesar's palace, rolled up in a rug like a precious gift. Captivated by her beauty and intelligence, Caesar helped her regain the throne and they became lovers. Their relationship produced a son, Caesarion, who was tragically murdered by Octavian's agents at the young age of seventeen.

Cleopatra was in Rome when Caesar was assassinated on March 15, 44 BC.

Cleopatra and Caesar (1866), a painting by Jean-Léon Gérôme

Following Caesar's death, Cleopatra's allure continued to ensnare powerful men. In 42 BC, she met Mark Antony, a prominent Roman general, and quickly captivated him. Despite his marriage to Octavian's sister, Octavia, Antony was deeply enamored with Cleopatra. Together, they ruled Egypt and had three children.

However, Cleopatra's ambitions extended beyond Egypt. She saw Antony's connections in the Eastern world as an opportunity to revive ancient Egypt's glory. But her pursuit of power and her relationship with Antony ultimately led to their downfall.

In a desperate attempt to save their relationship, Cleopatra orchestrated a series of dramatic events. She convinced Antony that she had committed suicide, hoping to soften his resolve. When Antony discovered the deception, he was heartbroken and took his own life. Cleopatra, devastated by his death, followed suit, ensuring that their tragic love story would be remembered for centuries to come.

MONEY AND FAME Cleopatra is widely regarded as one of the richest women in history. Her wealth was primarily derived from her position as the Pharaoh of Egypt and her control over the country's vast resources. Cleopatra's net worth has been estimated to be as high as $95.8 billion in today's currency12. This astronomical figure places her among the wealthiest individuals in history, not just among women.

Cleopatra lived a life of immense luxury, enjoying palaces, lavish banquets, and opulent displays of wealth.

A story told by Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder, claims that Cleopatra bet Mark Antony she could spend 10 million sesterces on a single meal. To win the bet, she allegedly dissolved one of her priceless pearl earrings in vinegar and drank it. Pliny estimated the value of Cleopatra's pearl earrings at 60 million sestertii, equivalent to about $28.5 million today

FOOD AND DRINK Cleopatra was fond of antelope meat and figs. She also delighted in extravagance, demonstrated by her famous banquet with Antony, where she dissolved pearls in vinegar to showcase her wealth.

The Banquet of Cleopatra (1744), by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo,

MUSIC AND ARTS She had a keen appreciation for the arts, often surrounding herself with scholars, musicians, and astronomers. Cleopatra’s luxurious river barge, with its purple sails and silver oars, was said to have music playing as she sailed.

LITERATURE Cleopatra was well-read, enjoying rare manuscripts, which she read to Mark Antony in the great Library of Alexandria. She appreciated intellectual discourse and elevated the ranks of scholars during her reign.

Cleopatra: A Life by Stacy Schiff (2010): This bestselling biography by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Stacy Schiff offers a detailed and nuanced portrait of Cleopatra, debunking many myths and portraying her as a politically astute leader rather than just a seductive figure. Schiff’s book has been credited with reviving scholarly interest in Cleopatra’s actual reign.

NATURE Cleopatra admired exotic animals and plants, likely importing them to decorate her palaces. She held a deep fascination with natural beauty, such as perfumes and rare gemstones.

PETS Cleopatra had a cat named Charmain, an example of her fondness for animals, particularly those considered sacred in Egyptian culture.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS She enjoyed sailing and outdoor activities, frequently traveling down the Nile on her magnificent barge.

Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra mentions Cleopatra playing billiards. This reference appears in Act 2, Scene 5 of the play. At the beginning of the scene, Cleopatra is looking for ways to pass the time while Antony is away. She initially asks for music, saying "Give me some music; music, moody food / Of us that trade in love." However, she quickly changes her mind and suggests playing billiards instead. Cleopatra says, "Let it alone; let's to billiards: come, Charmian. This reference to billiards is an anachronism, as the game as we know it today did not exist in ancient Egypt. Shakespeare often included such anachronisms in his plays, using contemporary references that his audience would understand, rather than strictly adhering to historical accuracy.

SCIENCE AND MATHS Cleopatra had a strong interest in astronomy and mathematics. She was rumored to have introduced Julius Caesar to Sosigenes of Alexandria, an astronomer who contributed to the creation of the Julian calendar.

Cleopatra was reportedly interested in the study of poisons and their effects. According to some sources, she "began to test them on condemned prisoners to see the different reactions produced in the body and found toxic limits". 

Cleopatra Testing Poisons on Condemned Prisoners (1887), by Alexandre Cabanel

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Cleopatra was a deeply spiritual ruler, identifying herself with the goddess Isis, and ensuring her reign was intertwined with Egypt’s religious practices.

POLITICS Cleopatra was a master of political strategy, maintaining Egypt’s independence through alliances with powerful Roman leaders, including Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.

REIGN Imagine a woman who could make the most powerful men in the world swoon at her feet. A woman who could turn kingdoms upside down with a single glance. A woman who was as cunning as a fox and as beautiful as a goddess. That woman was Cleopatra.

Cleopatra wasn’t just any queen. She was the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, a dynasty that traced its roots back to Alexander the Great. She was a descendant of the man who had conquered the world, and she lived up to that legacy.

But Cleopatra wasn’t just a royal. She was a force of nature. She was intelligent, charismatic, and ruthless. She could charm her way into the hearts of the most powerful men in Rome, and she could outsmart her enemies with ease.

Her life was a whirlwind of romance, intrigue, and political maneuvering. She had affairs with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, two of the most powerful men in Rome. She fought wars, gave birth to children, and ruled over a vast empire.

But it wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Cleopatra’s life was also filled with tragedy and heartbreak. She lost her lover, Julius Caesar, to assassination. She was betrayed by her allies. And in the end, she was defeated by her enemies and forced to commit suicide.

Despite her tragic end, Cleopatra’s legacy lives on. She is remembered as one of the most fascinating and powerful women in history. She was a woman who defied expectations, who lived life on her own terms, and who left an indelible mark on the world.

SCANDAL Cleopatra’s relationship with Caesar was scandalous to the Romans, as he was already married to Calpurnia. Her affair with Antony, despite his marriage to Octavia, further tarnished her reputation in Rome.

MILITARY RECORD Cleopatra actively supported Antony in his military campaigns, even commanding her own fleet during the Battle of Actium in 31 BC. However, she fled during the battle, leading to Antony's defeat.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Cleopatra was physically active and known for her vitality. Her overall health seemed strong until the last phase of her life.

HOMES The Royal Palace in Alexandria was Cleopatra's primary residence and seat of power. Part of the palace complex was on the island of Antirhodos in Alexandria's harbor.

Remains of what is believed to be Cleopatra's palace have been discovered underwater in Alexandria's harbor. This submerged archaeological site includes remnants of grand edifices, sphinxes, statues, columns, and various artifacts. It's thought to have been part of the royal quarters that sank due to earthquakes and tsunamis over the centuries.

She likely had palaces or residences in other important Egyptian cities.

During her time in Rome, Cleopatra would have stayed in accommodations provided by Julius Caesar.

When traveling or campaigning with Mark Antony, she would have had temporary residences or elaborate tents set up for her use.

It's worth noting that Cleopatra's Needle, a famous obelisk, is not directly associated with Cleopatra herself. While it was once located in Alexandria, the obelisk was actually constructed during the reign of Thotmes III, around 1500 BC.

TRAVEL Cleopatra traveled extensively, including visits to Rome and throughout Egypt, using her magnificent river barge for journeys along the Nile.

Following Caesar's assassination, Cleopatra believed that Mark Antony was poised to become the next great ruler of the Roman Empire. When summoned by Antony to Tarsus in Asia Minor, Cleopatra embarked on a journey that would solidify her influence.

She arrived in a magnificent river barge, adorned with gilded gold and draped in luxurious purple sails. The barge, resembling a floating throne, was propelled by silver oars, while the air was filled with the enchanting melodies of flutes, fifes, and harps. Cleopatra herself, dressed as the goddess Venus, exuded an air of unparalleled beauty and charm, captivating Antony from the moment she stepped ashore.

DEATH Cleopatra committed suicide on August 12, 30 BC following Antony's suicide.  She chose a particularly dramatic and symbolic end, applying an asp to her bosom. The ancient Egyptians believed that dying of snakebite conferred immortality, and Cleopatra, ever the seeker of eternal glory, embraced this final act.

Shakespeare's play Antony and Cleopatra captures this tragic scene. In Act V, Scene 2, Cleopatra, holding her child to her breast, says, "Dost thou not see my baby at my breast, That sucks the nurse asleep?" as she prepares to apply the asp.

Cleopatra's death marked the end of the Ptolemaic dynasty and the beginning of Egypt's status as a Roman province. Her dream of reviving the former glories of ancient Egypt was shattered, and her legacy became one of tragedy and loss.

According to legend, Cleopatra's mummy was accidentally left behind in a Paris museum when Napoleon's looted treasures were returned to Egypt. In the 1940s, workers discovered an empty mummy case, which was later identified as Cleopatra's. The contents of the case had been mistakenly discarded into the sewers, leaving the fate of Cleopatra's remains a mystery.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Cleopatra has become a lasting icon in popular culture, appearing in a wide array of media, from literature to film, television, and even video games. Her allure as a powerful, complex, and enigmatic ruler has fascinated audiences for centuries. Here are some of her most notable appearances in various media forms:

1. FILM

Cleopatra (1963) This lavish, epic Hollywood film, starring Elizabeth Taylor as Cleopatra, is perhaps the most iconic portrayal. The movie, known for its immense budget and extravagant sets, ran for 243 minutes and became notorious for its behind-the-scenes drama, including Taylor’s affair with co-star Richard Burton (Mark Antony). Taylor's performance cemented Cleopatra's image as a glamorous and seductive queen. The production was wildly over-budget, and Taylor received $1 million for the role, Hollywood's first million-dollar contract.

Cleopatra (1934)  Directed by Cecil B. DeMille, this earlier Hollywood film featured Claudette Colbert as Cleopatra. The movie was known for its opulent set designs and sensual portrayal of the queen. It was a box office success and established Cleopatra as a figure of exotic beauty and intrigue in early cinema.

Caesar and Cleopatra (1945) – Vivien Leigh  In this adaptation of George Bernard Shaw’s play, Vivien Leigh plays Cleopatra alongside Claude Rains as Julius Caesar. This portrayal presents Cleopatra as a young, inexperienced, yet cunning queen in her relationship with Caesar, emphasizing her wit and intelligence more than her sexuality.

Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra (2002) This French comedic film, part of the Asterix series, featured Monica Bellucci as Cleopatra. The film took a humorous and satirical approach to Cleopatra's story, blending ancient history with modern references in a family-friendly adventure.

2. TELEVISION 

Rome (2005-2007) The HBO series Rome features Cleopatra, played by Lyndsey Marshal, as a central character in its second season. The show portrays her relationship with both Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, focusing on the political intrigue of the time and giving a more historically grounded representation of Cleopatra.

Cleopatra (1999 miniseries) This television miniseries stars Leonor Varela as Cleopatra and Timothy Dalton as Julius Caesar. It dramatizes Cleopatra’s life from her ascent to the throne, her relationship with Caesar, to her tragic end. The series was praised for its historical accuracy and Varela’s portrayal of a strong and ambitious queen.

3. VIDEO GAMES 

Assassin’s Creed: Origins (2017) Cleopatra appears as a central character in this popular action-adventure video game. Set during the decline of Ancient Egypt and the rise of the Roman Empire, the game features Cleopatra as a politically savvy and manipulative ruler who aligns herself with Julius Caesar. The game offers a visually stunning representation of Cleopatra's Egypt, blending history with fiction.

Sid Meier’s Civilization VI (2016) Cleopatra is one of the leaders players can choose to represent Egypt in this turn-based strategy game. She is depicted as a charismatic and shrewd ruler, skilled in diplomacy and war. Her character in the game reflects her political alliances and efforts to maintain Egypt’s independence.

4. THEATER

Antony and Cleopatra by William Shakespeare One of Shakespeare's famous historical tragedies, Antony and Cleopatra, explores the tumultuous relationship between the Egyptian queen and the Roman general Mark Antony. Cleopatra is depicted as a passionate and manipulative woman whose love for Antony leads to their mutual downfall. Shakespeare's play is one of the earliest dramatic representations of Cleopatra's life and has influenced her image in literature and beyond.

Cleopatra's portrayal in Shakespeare's play has been performed countless times on stage worldwide, with notable actresses such as Janet Suzman and Judi Dench taking on the role. The play continues to be a staple of classical theater, bringing Cleopatra's dramatic life to the stage.

Caesar and Cleopatra by George Bernard Shaw This comedic play focuses on the early relationship between Cleopatra and Julius Caesar, depicting her as a mischievous and inexperienced young queen. Shaw’s witty dialogue and the play’s philosophical undertones present a different view of Cleopatra, emphasizing her intellect over her beauty.

5. MUSIC 

Opera Giulio Cesare (1724) This Baroque opera by George Frideric Handel tells the story of Caesar and Cleopatra’s romance. Cleopatra's character is portrayed as both seductive and cunning, with some of the most beautiful arias in Baroque music, such as "V'adoro, pupille."

ACHIEVEMENTS Cleopatra maintained Egypt’s independence for nearly two decades amidst Roman domination, established lasting relationships with powerful Roman leaders, and became a cultural icon. Despite her ultimate defeat, her intelligence and political acumen left an indelible mark on history.

"Had Cleopatra's nose been shorter, the whole history of the world would have been different. " Pascal Pensees 8:29