Empire 133. Cleopatra: Queen of the Nile
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Mar 21, 2024 Stacy Schiff, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, joins the hosts to explore the life of Cleopatra, the mesmerizing Queen of the Nile. Discover how Cleopatra, ascending to the throne at just 18, captivated both Egypt and Rome with her remarkable intellect and charm. The discussion delves into her complex identity as a Greek and Egyptian ruler and her strategic political alliances, particularly with Julius Caesar. Schiff highlights the tumultuous events of her reign, revealing the intricate power plays and the legacy of this commanding figure in history.
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Ptolemaic Sibling Marriage
- The Ptolemaic dynasty, Cleopatra's family, practiced sibling marriage.
- This was not a custom of Egyptian or Greek cultures, but a practice they adopted.
Cleopatra's Linguistic Skills
- Cleopatra was the first Ptolemy to learn the Egyptian language.
- This was a strategic move to bridge the cultural divide between the Greeks and Egyptians.
Ptolemy the Flutist
- Cleopatra's father, Ptolemy XII, was unexpectedly brought back from Libya to rule.
- He was not in line for the throne and his nickname was "Ptolemy the Flutist".
