One of the most fascinating historical figures to ever rule is Cleopatra. Cleopatra has remained quite popular throughout the millennia, as well in today’s popular culture largely due to recent Hollywood depictions by major movie starlets. With the many story lines that the character Cleopatra finds herself represented in, she never seems too far from the public’s consciousness. While we may all know who has played Cleopatra (Elizabeth Taylor for one), many of us are not as well versed on her true historical significance.
Cleopatra has been famous for over 2,000 years for quite a few reasons. Not only was she said to be incredibly beautiful (although new research suggests that she was average looking at best), but her political savvy is one of her most intriguing traits. During her lifetime, she was married to her brother, dueled politically for control of an empire, found true love in Marc Anthony and died with a broken heart.
While the myth of Cleopatra is extremely strong, there are definitely parts of her life that are not as well known. For those interested in politics, ancient Egypt and Rome and the beauty and power of Cleopatra, an article by Smithsonian Magazine offers a fresh look at the incredible highs and lows of Cleopatra. For more information, please visit the following link: http://www.smithsonianmag.com
