Salutations Darling Bookworms!
I love learning new things. I think that’s sort of a bookworm thing, no? Unfortunately, a lot of times I struggle with reading non fiction (with the exception of memoirs.) Thank heaven that audio books exist! I recently downloaded Cleopatra: A Life
Prior to reading this book, Cleopatra evoked images of cheesy Halloween costumes and Elizabeth Taylor. I knew she had flings with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, and that she maybe killed herself with the help of a snake, but that was the extent of my knowledge. What a fascinating life this woman led! She was a brilliant and occasionally ruthless politician. Born into an incestuous dynasty any Targaryen would approve of, Cleopatra’s rule was often mired by familial infighting and assassinations. She became the paramour of two famous Roman rulers and deftly juggled an insane political climate.
Why is it that this powerful woman went down in history as little more than a temptress and minimalist Halloween costume? Stacy Schiff explores the historical records through a modern lense. Schiff strips away some of the cultural bias and explores what Cleopatra’s life and motivations truly were in a historical context. Ancient male historians were pretty quick to dismiss women’s achievements or chalk them up to feminine wiles and witchcraft. Also, the whole snakebite on the boob thing probably didn’t happen. Talk about your inefficient means of suicide. Our girl was smarter than that, y’all. If you have any interest in the life of Cleopatra, I cannot recommend this book enough!
Alright Bookworms, let’s experiment. What is the first thing that pops into your head when you hear the name “Cleopatra”?
*If you make a purchase through a link on this site, I will receive a small commission. I do not have Cleopatra’s insane wealth, so, you know. Every penny goes back into keeping me in books!*
Jancee @ Jancee Reads
I read this as a readalong for Nonfiction November. So, I learned that Cleopatra wasn’t even Egyptian or whatever. Seriously, who knew?? I loved this one too, perfect for anyone who loves to collect random facts.
Words For Worms
Crazy, right?! She was basically Greek and totally had a think for ribbon diadems, a fashion choice I can only applaud her for.
Lost in Literature 108
Hmmm…. let me think….there WAS this ONE book….
Words For Worms
Part of the reason I picked this up is because I couldn’t remember the title of the book you keep trying to get me to read. I thought this might have been the one, LOL!
Lost in Literature 108
Well, I considered stating the title AGAIN, but then I thought you might not want to be my friend anymore, for being annoying.:)
The book was Cleopatra’s Daughter by Michelle Moran. Historical fiction, well researched. It starts at the time right before Cleopatra dies.
Joules (from Pocketful of Joules)
Like you, I think of Elizabeth Taylor. This book sounds super cool though!
Catherine
I hate to say it but…Elizabeth Taylor is the first thing I think of but only because I love her. Then, because I also read this book- I think canny smart powerful woman.
I’m like you, I don’t read much non-fiction. It doesn’t hold my attention but I agree with you completely on this book. I loved it so much I went on to read others about Cleopatra but this was the best.
Katie @ Doing Dewey
Oh wonderful! I’m so glad you enjoyed this too. I also loved how it made me revise my perception of Cleopatra.