5 Myths You Didn’t Know About Cleopatra

Was Cleopatra truly the beautiful seductress Hollywood portrays? Did she rule through cunning manipulation alone? Or was her story twisted to suit the victors of history? There are many myths about Cleopatra.

Why is Cleopatra one of the most misunderstood figures in history?

Who is Cleopatra?

Cleopatra was the last active ruler of Egypt’s Ptolemaic dynasty, known for her intelligence, political acumen, and legendary charm. Fluent in multiple languages, she strategically allied with Roman leaders Julius Caesar and Mark Antony to secure her throne. Cleopatra is celebrated for her dramatic life and death, symbolizing the end of ancient Egyptian rule and the beginning of Roman domination.

Here are 5 myths you didn’t know about Cleopatra.

Myth #1: Cleopatra Was Ethnically Egyptian

Cleopatra ruled Egypt, but she wasn’t Egyptian by lineage. She was a descendant of Macedonian Greeks, specifically the Ptolemaic dynasty, established by Alexander the Great’s general, Ptolemy I. While born in Alexandria, her roots were firmly Greek, and her family fiercely maintained their Macedonian heritage, even practicing sibling marriages to preserve their bloodline. Cleopatra was unique in her dynasty for embracing Egyptian culture—learning the language and identifying herself as the goddess Isis.

Myth #2: Cleopatra Wasn’t Prepared to Be Queen

Far from the image of a naïve young ruler, Cleopatra was a highly educated and capable leader. She spoke at least 9 languages, mastered philosophy, economics, and military strategy, and was the first in her dynasty to speak Egyptian fluently. Her intellect and charisma, not just her royal lineage, solidified her as one of the most formidable figures of the ancient world.

Myth #3: Cleopatra Was Defined by Her Beauty

Cleopatra’s allure wasn’t rooted in her looks but in her mind. Ancient artifacts portray her features inconsistently—some coins depict a strong jaw and prominent nose, emphasizing strength, while other depictions are softer. According to the historian Plutarch, her charm lay in her wit, intelligence, and voice. Her relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony weren’t merely romantic—they were strategic alliances crucial for her reign.

Myth #4: Cleopatra Wasn’t a Good Leader

Cleopatra wasn’t just a figurehead; she was a hands-on ruler who expanded Egypt’s wealth and influence. By fostering trade with Eastern nations, she bolstered Egypt’s economy. She used her status as the wealthiest woman of her time and her self-presentation as a divine figure to solidify her power. Cleopatra wasn’t just surviving in a world dominated by Rome—she was thriving, at least until her conflict with Octavian.

Myth #5: Cleopatra Died from a Snakebite

The story of Cleopatra’s death by cobra is iconic but likely apocryphal. While her death was almost certainly a suicide, the method remains unclear. Many historians suggest she used poison rather than a snakebite, as it would have been a more reliable and less painful choice. What is clear is that Cleopatra chose death over the humiliation of being paraded as a captive in Octavian’s victory procession.