The Relationship Between Julius Caesar and Cleopatra: A Historical Overview
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In Roman Holiday, the team from St Mary’s jumps back to Rome in 44 BC. This History Briefing explores the relationship between Julius Caesar, the Roman general and statesman, and Cleopatra VII, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt. It is one of the most intriguing and significant alliances in ancient history. Their partnership, both romantic and political, had far-reaching implications for the Roman Republic and the future of the Mediterranean world.
In 48 BC, during the Roman Civil War between Julius Caesar and Pompey the Great, Caesar pursued Pompey to Egypt after the latter's defeat at the Battle of Pharsalus. Cleopatra, embroiled in her own struggle for the Egyptian throne against her brother Ptolemy XIII, saw an opportunity to form an alliance with Caesar.
Cleopatra's introduction to Caesar is legendary. Seeking to avoid detection by her brother’s forces, she famously had herself smuggled into Caesar's presence rolled up in a carpet (or, according to some accounts, in a linen sack). This dramatic entrance not only captivated Caesar but also marked the beginning of their alliance. Cleopatra's charm, intelligence, and political acumen impressed Caesar, and they soon became lovers.
Caesar's involvement in Egyptian affairs was partly motivated by the need to stabilize a key grain-producing region that was vital to Rome. He helped Cleopatra defeat her brother Ptolemy XIII, securing her position as queen. The Alexandrian War, which followed, saw Caesar's forces besieged in the city of Alexandria until reinforcements arrived. With Caesar's support, Cleopatra was restored to the throne, co-ruling with her younger brother Ptolemy XIV, whom she married as per Egyptian custom.
In 47 BC, Cleopatra gave birth to a son, Ptolemy XV Philopator Philometor Caesar, commonly known as Caesarion. Cleopatra claimed that Caesarion was Julius Caesar’s son, though Caesar never formally acknowledged him as his heir. This child further solidified the bond between Caesar and Cleopatra, though it also stirred controversy and suspicion among Caesar's Roman contemporaries.
In 46 BC, Cleopatra and Caesarion visited Rome, staying at one of Caesar's estates. Cleopatra’s presence in Rome was met with fascination and scandal. Romans were both intrigued and appalled by the Egyptian queen’s exoticism and the idea of their leader having a foreign mistress. Despite the gossip, Cleopatra’s stay in Rome highlighted the strength of her alliance with Caesar.
Cleopatra’s relationship with Caesar had significant political implications. Caesar, who had been named dictator for life, was rumored to be planning further consolidation of power, possibly even a monarchy, with Cleopatra by his side. This was alarming to many in the Senate who feared the erosion of the Republic. Cleopatra’s influence over Caesar was seen as a potential threat to Roman traditions and governance.
The assassination of Julius Caesar on the Ides of March in 44 BC brought a sudden and violent end to their partnership. Cleopatra, who was in Rome at the time, quickly returned to Egypt. The power vacuum left by Caesar's death led to a series of civil wars, ultimately culminating in the rise of Caesar’s adopted heir, Octavian (later Augustus), and the fall of the Ptolemaic Kingdom.
The relationship between Julius Caesar and Cleopatra was a complex and multifaceted alliance that blended personal affection with strategic political maneuvering. Their union not only reshaped the political landscape of Egypt but also had lasting consequences for the Roman Republic. Cleopatra's legacy as a ruler who skillfully navigated the treacherous waters of Roman politics is inseparable from her association with one of Rome's most powerful figures. Their story remains one of the most captivating chapters in the annals of ancient history.
Read the adventures of the St Mary’s team in Roman Holiday