Dr. Shushma Malik, a historical expert, teams up with comedian Thanyia Moore to delve into the tumultuous life of Cleopatra. They unravel the Queen’s dramatic lineage, power struggles, and her relationships with Roman icons Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. The conversation reveals her strategic cunning amidst familial betrayals and political intrigue. Additionally, they challenge Cleopatra's legacy as merely a seductive figure, arguing for a broader appreciation of her genuine influence in history, all sprinkled with humor and wit.
Cleopatra's intelligence and political acumen allowed her to navigate through the patriarchal norms of her society and assert her authority.
Her tumultuous alliances with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony shaped her reign and ultimately contributed to her tragic downfall in Roman politics.
Deep dives
Cleopatra's Early Life and Ascension
Cleopatra was born around 69 or 70 BCE in Alexandria, Egypt, and is often recognized as a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, which was of Greek origin. As the eldest daughter, she faced a tumultuous upbringing marked by political intrigue and familial strife, including witnessing the tumultuous rise and fall of her relatives. Initially co-ruling with her younger brother Ptolemy XIII, she eventually had to navigate a challenging political landscape that was heavily influenced by the encroaching power of Rome. By leveraging her intelligence and education—reportedly speaking up to nine languages—Cleopatra was positioned to assert her authority and consolidate power despite the patriarchal norms of her society.
Partnerships with Roman Leaders
Cleopatra's relationships with prominent Roman figures like Julius Caesar and Mark Antony were pivotal for both her political standing and her personal ambitions. After engaging in a dramatic and strategic liaison with Julius Caesar, which included famously sneaking into his presence, Cleopatra became co-ruler alongside her brother Ptolemy XIII. Following Caesar's assassination, her partnership with Mark Antony blossomed, as they solidified their bond through political maneuvers and had several children together, including twins. However, these alliances not only garnered her power but also sowed discord in Rome, ultimately sharpening the focus on Cleopatra as a source of political blame and intrigue.
The Downfall of Cleopatra
The culmination of Cleopatra's ambitious reign led to her tragic downfall after the naval defeat at the Battle of Actium against Octavian's forces. Following Antony's suicide, Cleopatra was left in a precarious position as Octavian prepared to invade Egypt, leaving her to grapple with the dire consequences of their failed alliances. Desperate to avoid capture and humiliation, Cleopatra took her own life by reportedly allowing poisonous snakes to bite her. This tragic end underscored her legacy as a powerful yet ultimately misunderstood figure, whose story resonates as a complex narrative of female agency amid rampant patriarchal oppression.
Greg Jenner is joined by Dr Shushma Malik and comedian Thanyia Moore to learn about Cleopatra.
Cleopatra – the seventh Ancient Egyptian Queen to bear that name – was born around 69 BCE and she’s seen by many historians as the final ruler of dynastic Egypt; a lineage that stretched back 3,000 years.
From marrying and murdering her siblings to liaisons of love and political pragmatism with top Romans Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, Cleopatra led a very turbulent life. But when we strip back the modern myths and ancient interpretations, who was the real Cleopatra?
This is a radio edit of the original podcast episode. For the full-length version, please look further back in the feed.
Research by Aimee Hinds Scott
Written by Emma Nagouse, Emmie Rose Price-Goodfellow and Greg Jenner
Produced by Emma Nagouse and Greg Jenner
Assistant Producer: Emmie Rose Price-Goodfellow
Project Management: Isla Matthews
Audio Producer: Steve Hankey
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