Cleopatra

Cleopatra is a name that was given to many Queens who ruled in Egypt. The most famous of these women was Cleopatra VII. She was the daughter of Ptolemy XII, King of Egypt. Cleopatra VII lived from 69-30 B.C. and reigned as queen of Egypt from 51-30 B.C. (Stanly). Cleopatra is said to be far from beautiful, her picture on ancient coins made her look like she had a long hooked nose and masculine features. She is also said to be very seductive with her enchanting musical voice and exuded charisma. She was also very intelligent and a great ruler. She spoke nine different languages. She was the only Eqyptian Queen who could actually speak Egyptian (History).

The Ptolemy family had ruled Egypt since 305 B.C. After the death of Alexander the Great, Ptolemy I declared himself King of Egypt.

The Ptolemy family was of Macedonian descent, part Greek and part Iranian. Cleopatra's father Ptolemy XII, full name was Ptolemy XII Neos Dionysos Auletes (which means flute-player in Greek), he began ruling in 80 B.C. and continued to rule until his death in 51 B.C. (Nardo). Cleopatra's mother is said to have been Cleopatra V Tryphaena, who either died or disappeared in 69 B.C. Cleopatra had two older sisters; Cleopatra VI and Berenice IV, and one younger sister,