Feminist Criticism Of Cleopatra

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What started as a dim and rocky reign, Cleopatra’s tenure spent ruling Egypt turned out to be extremely beneficial for the dying kingdom—at least until her death in 30BC. Cleopatra kept her kingdom from falling to the ruins it was destined for by using her undeniable wit and charm to create allies in all the right places. Though history likes to remember Egypt’s last great leader as nothing more than a teasing temptress, Cleopatra’s power ultimately stemmed from her clever leadership and smart networking. Though they weren’t Egyptian themselves the Ptolemies (who were of Greek descent) had considered themselves pharaohs for decades. Cleopatra’s family’s empire was once as great as history paints Ancient Egypt to be, but when it was time for Cleopatra and her little brother to adopt the Ptolemaic Empire, the kingdom was already falling apart. Civil wars raged throughout Egypt while Roman power continued to grow and …show more content…

Men have always been too afraid to give up their (perceived) authority and as women get louder, men get more frightened (this can be illustrated by watching even just five minutes of last year’s Super Bowl commercials). I think it’s fun to see that whether it is 2015AD or 31BC; the mentality between men, women, and sex is virtually the same. While she should be remembered for being the only sole female leader of her time, keeping her nation at peace, afloat, and thriving for 21 years at a time when it was inches away from crumbling, Cleopatra is remembered as nothing more than a messy, dirty woman. I think that’s what I’m taking away the most of from this article: women have always been sexual beings and men have always both worshipped and feared them for it. Also, that one of history’s most infamous celebrities is actually a fascinating, multi-faceted person who deserves a lot more than she is

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