S8 Ep1168: Barry Strauss introduces Cleopatra, the Queen of Egypt and member of the Ptolemaic dynasty founded by one of Alexander the Great'

Barry Strauss introduces Cleopatra, the Queen of Egypt and member of the Ptolemaic dynasty founded by one of Alexander the Great's generals. Strauss describes Alexandria as the Mediterranean's greatest metropolis and a wealthy cultural hub. Cleopatra is depicted as a "tough player" who survived deadly family intrigues to rule Egypt. When she meets Antony in 41 BC at Tarsus, she dazzles him with a spectacular, perfumed arrival on a barge. Antony views Cleopatra not just as a lover, but as a vital financial resource for his Eastern ambitions. A key point of contention is Caesarion, Cleopatra's son, whom many believed was the child of Julius Caesar. Octavian's later propaganda painted the East as "effeminate" compared to Roman manliness. To demonstrate her immense wealth, Cleopatra famously dissolved a priceless pearl in vinegar during an extravagant dinner. (2)