Who was the real Cleopatra? Throughout history, Cleopatra has been the subject of various interpretations. She has been depicted in different forms, including as an asteroid, a video game character, and a symbol associated with Elizabeth Taylor. Shakespeare famously acknowledged Cleopatras complexity, but the true details of her appearance remain elusive. Coin portraits from her time, likely approved by Cleopatra herself, are the most reliable sources.Cleopatras legacy is often remembered for the wrong reasons. She was a capable and astute ruler, skilled in military matters and adept at governance. In an era where women rulers were not uncommon, Cleopatra stood out as the sole female leader who played a significant role in Western affairs. She possessed immense wealth and enjoyed a level of prestige unparalleled by her contemporaries. Despite her accomplishments, Cleopatra is often mischaracterized as a seductive temptress, reflecting societys tendency to diminish genuinely powerful women.Cleopatras alliances with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony shaped her reign and ignited a love affair that captivated the ancient world. Well unravel the complexities of her relationships and examine the dynamics of power and influence between her and these two powerful Roman figures. Her interactions with them would seal her fate and impact the course of history.Among historys most famous women, Cleopatra VII reigned over Egypt for twenty-two eventful years. She experienced the loss and regaining of her kingdom, the expansion and loss of her empire, and held immense power and influence. From a young age, Cleopatra captivated attention and was subject to speculation and rumors. At the height of her rule, she controlled a vast territory, making her the last significant Egyptian ruler. Cleopatras personal life also attracted attention, as she had children with married men and ultimately met a sudden and sensational demise at the age of thirty-nine.In todays episode of A Conversation Before the World Ends, we delve deep into the captivating story of Cleopatra VII, the last queen of Egypt. Join us as we uncover the secrets, the betrayals, and the triumphs of a woman who defied expectations, challenged empires, and left an indelible mark on history. Our journey takes us through the opulent courts of Alexandria, the treacherous political landscape of ancient Rome, and the scorching sands of Egypt, as we explore the life and reign of one of historys most intriguing figures.Further Reading/Notes:-  Schiff, Stacy (2011) Cleopatra: A Life. Back Bay Books - Strauss, Barry (2022) The War That Made the Roman Empire: Antony, Cleopatra and Octavian at Actium. Simon Schuster-Tyldesley, Joyce (2010) Cleopatra, Last Queen of Egypt. Profile BooksInsta: @convo_btweTwitter: convo_btweFacebook: A Conversation Before the World Ends Tiktok: convo_btwe