Born in 69 BC, Cleopatra was a descendant of Ptolemy I Soter, a general under Alexander the Great. Her reign, marked by ambitious political alliances and romantic liaisons with powerful Roman leaders such as Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, was a period of significant cultural and political upheaval.

Despite her lineage, Cleopatra's ascent to power was fraught with challenges. She deftly navigated the complex political landscape of her time, employing her linguistic skills and sharp intellect to establish Egypt as a major player in the Mediterranean. Her dramatic life and tragic end, culminating in her suicide in 30 BC following the defeat at the Battle of Actium, have immortalised her in literature and art, solidifying her status as one of history's most compelling queens. Cleopatra’s story encapsulates the intersection of ambition, love, and the relentless pursuit of power, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of history.