The Search for Cleopatra

by Michael Foss

Traces the life of the Egyptian queen of the first century B.C., and explores her influence on the events of her time

Genres: History, Egypt, Nonfiction, Biography

208 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1998

Reviews

[Ryan · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you are expecting a detailed biography of Cleopatra, adjust your expectations. I also think I over-estimated how much material there was on this ancient figure. There was a very healthy dose of Roman history/politics so Cleopatra was entirely absent for chunks of the book, but I guess given the relationship between Egypt and Rome during her life that should be expected. Still, without being overly compelling at any one stage I found myself reading through the book quite quickly and I do think of the historical figure of Cleopatra differently after completing this book.

[Gretchen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Provides an excellent overview of the historical events and figures surrounding Cleopatra, as well as highlighting her subtle strength in international politics. Cleopatra was a woman of extraordinary will, using any and every tool available to her to protect her people and advance Egypt's position in the world. Every action was calculated, even her acts of passion with Julius Caesar and Mark Anthony.

Because of the historical records of her day, this book can provide no more than a thorough sketch if the legendary queen. The extensive quotes from Plutarch did contribute substantially to her character development, but I wish we knew more about this remarkable woman.

[Sharon T. · Rating 1 out of 5]

I learned a more than I knew about Cleopatra, but there was a whole lot more about Caesar and Antony and the other men in her life than about her. The writing was cumbersome too. I've since seen other books about her that seem to be more about her and easier to read, so for anyone who is interested, I'd look elsewhere than Foss's book.