This unique biography captures the excitement of her life story, including portions that have been largely neglected, such as her interest in literature and science and her role as a mother, and allows readers to draw their own conclusions.

Introduction: the endless search for the true Cleopatra -- A young princess of an ancient land -- The fight for the throne -- Cleopatra's cruise -- The new goddess Isis -- Cleopatra and Mark Antony -- Queen of kings -- The sharers of death -- The end of an era.