The Values Of Cleopatra In Shakespeare's Antony And Cleopatra

Seeing that I have received much backlash from women’s organization, Feminists of Florence, I have concluded that it would do well for me to insert this additional passage into my well known treatise, The Prince. I have deemed it necessary to provide commentary and discussion on female leadership hence the title, The Princess. For purposes of practical application, I will reference the tale of Queen Cleopatra of Egypt and her interactions with the Roman Empire’s triumvirate, specifically Mark Antony and Octavius Caesar, which will be referenced from Shakespeare’s Antony and Cleopatra. I will use the the following sections of this passage to describe the situation, discuss the many virtues of Cleopatra and how they aided her in being a successful female ruler, and finally discuss the absent virtue that led to her demise. …show more content…
A series of events leads to a rift between Antony and Caesar, resulting in a battle that requires Cleopatra’s assistance. During a crucial point in battle, the queen orders her fleet to retreat, causing Antony’s army great harm. Outraged, Antony threatens to kill her, but before he can she deceives Antony into thinking she has taken her own life. In response, Antony falls on his sword. With the death of Antony, Caesar rises to absolute power. Avoiding the inevitable fate as Caesar’s prisoner of war, Cleopatra ends her life with the poison of snakes. Proceeding to the issue, I will use the the following sections of this passage to discuss the many virtues of Cleopatra and how they aided her in being a successful female ruler and finally, discuss the absent virtue that led to her