Cleopatra and her brother-husband Ptolemy XIII

[guy]

(Scene from HBO’s “Rome” when Cleopatra VII confronts her brother and husband Ptolemy XIII)

 

This article clarifies the complicated politics of Egypt that existed when Julius Caesar arrived in Egypt in pursuit of Pompey Magnus.

 

Quote

“In the final years of his reign, Ptolemy XII designated that Ptolemy XIII would be married to his older sister Cleopatra, acting as regent until Ptolemy XIII would be of age to rule Egypt together. 

In 51 BC, contemporary documents started listing Cleopatra as sole ruler and her face began appearing on minted coins, suggesting that she had rejected her brother to maintain sole authority of the crown. Despite this, Ptolemy XIII’s guardians, namely the eunuch Pothinus, Achillas, and Theodotus of Chios supporting the young pharaoh and attempted to depose Cleopatra.”

https://www.heritagedaily.com/2021/12/the-early-life-of-cleopatra/142343?amp

 

Edited January 28 by guy

[caldrail]

There's been a strong drive to have Cleopatra VII recognised for her positive aspects, her knowledge of language, and encouragement of learning, and get away from the temptress we normally see her as. What you can't get away from is the full on family battle for winner takes all she was born into and indeed her own survival game which ultimately provoked the Principate in Rome.

[Crispina]

Interesting article, some facts I had never read before.