Cleopatra VII Philopator (69 BCE - 30 BCE)

Cleopatra was the last active pharaoh of Ancient Egypt, ruling from 51 BCE until her death. She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, which was a Greek dynasty that ruled Egypt after the death of Alexander the Great.

Cleopatra is famous for:

1. Her intelligence, strategic thinking, and political savvy.

2. Her relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, two powerful Roman leaders.

3. Her attempts to defend Egypt against Roman conquest.

4. Her legendary beauty and charm.

5. Her tragic death, reportedly by allowing a poisonous asp to bite her.

Cleopatra's legacy extends beyond her historical significance, as she has become an cultural icon, symbolizing ancient Egypt's mystique and grandeur. Her story has inspired countless works of art, literature, and film, cementing her place in the collective imagination.

Cleopatra as a Nymphomaniac?

The notion that Cleopatra was a nymphomaniac is a stereotype that has been perpetuated by popular culture and ancient Roman propaganda. However, this characterization is not entirely supported by historical evidence.

While Cleopatra did have relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, these were likely strategic alliances and romantic partnerships rather than evidence of insatiable sexual desire. In fact, ancient sources describe Cleopatra as a shrewd politician and leader who used her charm and intelligence to forge alliances and protect Egypt's interests.

The idea of Cleopatra as a seductress and nymphomaniac was largely perpetuated by Roman writers like Plutarch and Josephus, who sought to portray her as a decadent and immoral leader. However, modern historians have reevaluated these sources and offer a more nuanced understanding of Cleopatra's life and reign.

Cleopatra's Children 

Cleopatra had four children:

1. Caesarion (Ptolemy XV Caesar): son with Julius Caesar, born in 47 BCE.

2. Twins Alexander Helios and Cleopatra Selene II: children with Mark Antony, born in 40 BCE.

3. Ptolemy Philadelphus: son with Mark Antony, born in 36 BCE.

After Cleopatra's death, her children were taken captive by the Romans and paraded as prisoners in Octavian's (later Augustus) triumphal procession in Rome.

Here's what happened to them:

- Caesarion was executed by Octavian's soldiers at the age of 17.

- Alexander Helios and Ptolemy Philadelphus disappear from historical records, likely died in captivity.

- Cleopatra Selene II was raised by Octavian's sister, Octavia (Mark Antony's former wife), and eventually married Juba II, king of Numidia (modern-day Algeria). She became queen of Mauretania (modern-day Morocco) and had children, ensuring Cleopatra's legacy lived on.