Cleopatra’s rise and fall

Cleopatra is remembered as a romantic figure, but she was one of the most formidable leaders of the ancient world. In episode two of her HistoryExtra Academy series on royal women, historian Kate Williams considers a life of power, risk and survival

Published: April 21, 2026 at 8:02 AM

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For centuries, Cleopatra has been remembered as a seductress, reduced to a sultry and sexualised stereotype. But in reality, she was something far more dangerous, as Professor Kate Williams explores in this second episode of her HistoryExtra Academy series.

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Discover the life of Cleopatra VII, the last ruler of Ptolemaic Egypt, whose intelligence, political skill and ambition helped her navigate one of the most dangerous periods in ancient history – and how she remained determined to stand against the power of ancient Rome.

Enjoyed this episode? Find more in episode three. Discover more episodes of the academy series on royal women, and explore our previous series on royal residences

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Professor Kate Williams is a historian, presenter the author of several books including Regina :A New History of Women and Power (June 2026)

Authors

Professor Kate Williams

Professor Kate Williams is a historian, author, and broadcaster, and professor of Modern History at Reading University

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