Cleopatra - Assess the Life and Significance of Cleopatra. Does the ‘Historical’ Cleopatra Match the Femme Fatale Image in Popular Culture?

Femme fatale is defined as ‘an attractive and seductive woman … who will ultimately bring disaster to a man who becomes involved with her.’ Prior to researching this woman with great historical influence, it was believed to me that this image was based on truth and evidence. Not all is certain now that I have assessed her life and significance. Much of what we know about Cleopatra was written after her death, when it was politically convenient to portray her as a threat to the city of Rome. This means that some of what we know, may have been exaggerated of misrepresented to falsely describe her as of a seductive and evil nature. The Egyptian era began following the death of Alexander The Great, when his general Ptolemy, took over as ruler of Egypt, becoming King Ptolemy I. Cleopatra, daughter of King Ptolemy XII and Cleopatra V of Egypt, was born in October 69 B.C. She is believed to be of Macedonian Greek decent or, black African, historians aren‘t quite sure. In 51 B.C Ptolemy died, leaving 18-year-old Cleopatra and her 10-year-old brother, Ptolemy XIII in charge of the throne. Cleopatra had five siblings, whom were all spoiled by their father. They attended the finest banquets and ceremonies and were provided with the finest food and clothing. Ptolemy believed highly in importance of education, ensuring each child had their own tutors and private servants. Because of this, Cleopatra studied philosophy, literature, art, music, medicine, and was able to speak six different languages. These languages included Aramaic, Egyptian, Ethiopic, Greek, Hebrew, and Latin. Because she was very educated, she longed for power. Around the time when Cleopatra first tool to the throne, there was a civil war between Julius Caesar and Pompey. Pompey eventually sought refuge in Egypt but was killed by Ptolemy. It was here, that Cleopatra met Julius Caesar, who was 52-years-old and had followed Pompey in pursuit of his rival. He had already been married 3 times, and fell