How Does Cassius Dio Characterise Cleopatra

Carefully read the following passage from the work of the Roman historian Cassius Dio. In this passage, how does Cassius Dio characterise Cleopatra? How does this compare with the other ancient written sources you have met in the chapter?

Each authors portrayal of Cleopatra varies depending on their own outlook, the material sources identified, and their moral, political and cultural influences. Specifically, Cassius Dio’s depiction of the Egyptian queen was written about 200 years after the relevant events. Therefore, it is expected from readers and future historians to question the authenticity of the sources. Dio’s characterisation of Cleopatra focuses on her appearance and portrays a strong viewpoint. Like many other ancient writings, …show more content…
With a ‘charming voice’, Dio states that she had the ‘power to subjugate everyone’. This signifies that she was a strong, and to a certain extent manipulative character who could lure people in as if they were under her spell. It is vital to consider that most interpretations of Cleopatra was that of the Roman male, so the majority may have been blinded by her beauty. Although Plutarch felt Cleopatra’s appearance was nothing extraordinary, he did mention ‘the charm of her presence was irresistible’ and there was an ‘attraction in her person and her talk’. This legitimises Dio’s perception of Cleopatra’s personality. Similarly, they both used the word ‘charm’ when describing her, suggesting that her enchantment was a key point while excavating the truth of her past. Nevertheless, Horace’s well-known poem gives insight into what the people of Rome may have thought about Cleopatra, despite poetry being based on opinion rather than an accurate historical record. The poem has a negative vibe towards Cleopatra using the ‘crazed’ and ‘mad’ to describe the queen. This differs to Plutarch’s and Dio’s judgement. It could be argued that Romans thought she was delirious due to the fact women had no role in political life, so the notion of Cleopatra possessing great power was

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