Cleopatra.(Cleopatra of Egypt: From History to Myth exhibition, British Museum, London, England)(Brief Article)

It could be argued that Cleopatra invented the technique for creating headlines when, for example, she presented herself to Julius Caesar rolled up in a carpet, and when she successfully challenged Mark Antony in lavishness at a banquet It was not just the acts themselves but ensuring that they achieved the status of legend that was the mark of a successful publicity campaign. Cleopatra fascinated writers beginning with Pliny and continuing with Boccaccio, Shakespeare, and Shaw, and they no doubt did their best to perpetuate the myths and legends that surround her.

That Cleopatra was attractive is not in question, although part of her allure was undeniably her control of the kingdom of Egypt as Cleopatra ...