Cleopatra the Great: The Woman Behind the Legend Paperback – April 3, 2012

Full disclosure, I tend prefer well researched non-fiction biographical books over most other genres. This book was like looking though a window to what life may have been like for one of the most powerful woman in history. Keep in mind that when authors (or anyone for that matter) make statements with authority about history, history that archaeologists still disagree about or are unable to interpret, they are taking liberties. This is great read if you know what you're getting yourself into.

The writing style is occasionally reminiscent of stereo instructions, but this is informative and a great look into the life if a great woman.

I have really only known Ms. Fletcher's work on Nefertiti and her knowledge of ancient hair styles, wigs, etc. I had no idea that she was as authoritative, insightful and so thoroughly knowledgeable about SO much. She brings to Cleopatra's life solid research and exciting new interpretations of the facts. This should be first on any Cleopatra scholar's book shelf. All in all - fabulous.

I started reading this when I rented a book from the library and I loved it so much I had to buy it. The book arrived exactly as described.

History of Cleopatra has been marinated in propaganda. Octavian used her as political collateral in his rivalry with Marc Antony and Hollywood re-energized her myth with the gluttonous 1963 epic co-starring Elizabeth Taylor's cleavage. With minimal archeological evidence available, Joann Fletcher, archeologist, tries to piece together a coherent biography of Cleopatra. For the most part, she fails; the book is overly academic and not coherent. Apparently, there is a paucity of actual primary information about Cleopatra. Much of this book constructs Cleopatra's life based on forms and styles in Egypt at the time she was alive. Much of the tapestry of Cleopatra's life is built on Dr Fletcher's knowledge of Egyptian body adornment such as wigs, perfumes, cosmetics, and jewelry. The book is highly reliant on mummification and burial practices. Based on the few remaining coins and statues that harbor Cleopatra's likeliness, it is clear that Cleopatra was no beauty queen, or at least not in the ilk of Elizabeth Taylor. However, there is enough circumstantial evidence to suggest that she was powerful, ambitious and intelligent. Compared to the average Roman female, she was sexually liberal; she was empowered to participate in sex as a quasi-political activity. Apparently, there is evidence that Cleopatra was quite fertile and sired progeny of Marc Anthony and Julius Caesar. Unfortunately, much of the legendary histrionics between Marc Anthony and Cleopatra are impossible to corroborate. Likely, Egypt was rich in resources and any emperor caught in a power struggle would likely find an advantage to an alliance with Egypt.Cleary, Cleopatra was an active political player both in Egypt and in the Roman Empire. At home, the sibling rivalry among the ruling family was so intense that you were either ruler or you were dead. Cleopatra was neither the oldest sibling nor the youngest, but she survived long enough to outlive the others and take the throne. An ambitious monarch, she was interested in an alliance with the larger and expanding Roman Empire. Her first tryst with a Roman power broker, Julius Caesar, got her out of exile and permitted her to ascend to the throne over her brother's dead body. When Julius was assassinated, she quickly allied herself with Caesar's logical successor, Marc Antony. But after that, much of what has been handed down through time is the product of Octavian's propaganda machine. Octavian did not want to antagonize Antony directly in fear of starting a civil war. So, he villainized Antony's ally and lover, Cleopatra. Despite Octavian's ferocious attacks, Cleopatra's plan for apotheosis was solid but went sour at Actium. The catastrophic loss led to Antony's exile and subsequent suicide. Cleopatra soon followed, although how she actually did the deed is open to conjecture. Conventional wisdom of the times was that she allowed herself to be bit by an asp, although Dr Fletcher does not think this is feasible. Again, to the victor go the spoils. After Antony's and Cleopatra's death, Octavian revised history to suit his needs. The true Cleopatra will always be veiled in secrecy.

I have read many biographies on Cleopatra as I have been fascinated by her since I was a little girl. This book is at the top of my list. It is obvious that Ms. Fletcher has a deep understanding and academic knowledge of her subject and those ancient times. However, it is her writing that separated her from the rest.. Ms. Fletcher's wonderfully descriptive explanations of the rites, rituals paraphernailia, attire, makeup and jewels make this book a gem. I most espeically liked her take on the trip up the NIle with Casear. It was the best exposition I have read on the topic. I felt like I was there. The book has provided me with a better understanding of the times and complicated history of the Ptolemies. Its a must read.

I enjoyed the book but found it too consumed with detail that wasn't necessary to the context of the book.

Have not read it all yet so a bit early to make a good review. (There are 454 pages.) However Joann Fletcher certainly knows her subject extremely well and I am impressed with her depth of knowledge.When I complete the reading I will provide a more in depth review.

Wonderful, was discussion is based on facts. She could not have been bitten by an Asp. It would have had to huge to have bitten three women and they were searched going into and out of the room they were held in. They would not have looked at her hair ornaments and she probably had poison in one of them. She was one very clever woman.

Very informative, easy to read.

Well recommended.More books by this aurthor welcome