Cleopatra: A Life

Schiff states that Cleopatra “stood at the most dangerous intersection in history: that of women and power” (4). How does Schiff present the dynamic of femininity and power in Cleopatra’s life?

Cleopatra’s life was shaped by her relationships with two powerful Roman men, Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. How does Schiff depict these relationships? How does her understanding of these relationship dynamics compare to that of other historians?

Schiff sets out to recharacterize the contemporary understanding of Cleopatra. What is the common perception of Cleopatra, and how does Schiff attempt to alter this perception? What are the strengths and weaknesses of Schiff’s approach?