Is Cleopatra a pharaoh?

Cleopatra VII Philopator, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, is a figure of historical intrigue and debate. To understand whether Cleopatra was a pharaoh, it is essential to delve into the historical context of the Ptolemaic Dynasty, the nature of Egyptian kingship, and the unique position Cleopatra held within both. **Historical Context of the Ptolemaic Dynasty:** The Ptolemaic Dynasty was a Hellenistic period that began with Ptolemy I Soter, a general under Alexander the Great, who declared himself as the ruler of Egypt after Alexander's death. The Ptolemies were of Macedonian Greek descent and ruled Egypt for nearly three centuries, from 305 BC to 30 BC. Despite their Greek heritage, the Ptolemies adopted many aspects of Egyptian culture and religion, including the practice of assuming the title of pharaoh. Nature of Egyptian Kingship: In ancient Egypt, the pharaoh was more than a political leader; they were considered a divine being, a living embodiment of the gods on earth. The pharaoh was responsible for maintaining Ma'at, the concept of truth, balance, order, harmony, law, and morality. This divine status was a crucial aspect of the pharaoh's role and was integral to the legitimacy of their rule. Cleopatra's Position and Rule: Cleopatra VII Philopator was the daughter of Ptolemy XII Auletes and the last ruler of the Ptolemaic Dynasty. She was known for her intelligence, political acumen, and her ability to speak multiple languages, including Egyptian, which was unusual for the Ptolemaic rulers. Cleopatra ascended to the throne co-regent with her younger brother, Ptolemy XIII, following the death of her father in 51 BC. According to Egyptian custom, this was a common practice to ensure a smooth transition of power. However, Cleopatra's reign was marked by power struggles with her brothers, which led to civil war. She was eventually able to consolidate her power and rule alone, demonstrating her ability to navigate the complex political landscape of the time. Cleopatra was also known for her relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, which were both politically strategic and personally significant. Cleopatra as Pharaoh: Cleopatra was the only Ptolemaic ruler to embrace her role as pharaoh in a way that was more in line with traditional Egyptian practices. She was the first of her dynasty to learn the Egyptian language and to be portrayed on coins and monuments in the traditional pharaonic attire. She also assumed traditional pharaonic titles and was depicted in art as the goddess Isis, further emphasizing her divine status. Debate and Conclusion: The debate over whether Cleopatra was a pharaoh is complex. On one hand, she was a Ptolemaic ruler, a dynasty that was not of Egyptian origin but adopted the title and some aspects of Egyptian kingship. On the other hand, Cleopatra herself took significant steps to align herself more closely with the traditional role and image of an Egyptian pharaoh. Given her embrace of the Egyptian language, her use of traditional pharaonic titles and imagery, and her role in maintaining the cultural and religious practices of Egypt, it is reasonable to consider Cleopatra VII Philopator as a pharaoh in her own right. Her unique position as a foreign-born ruler who adopted and adapted to the Egyptian concept of kingship makes her a fascinating case study in the history of ancient Egypt. In conclusion, while the Ptolemaic Dynasty was of Greek origin, Cleopatra's active engagement with the Egyptian culture, language, and the role of the pharaoh, combined with her portrayal as a divine figure, supports the argument that she can be considered a pharaoh. Her reign and the legacy she left behind continue to captivate historians and the public alike.

Cleopatra VII Philopator (Greek: ---˦ŦϦ-?-ӦѦ- ---ɦ˦Ϧ-?-Ӧئ- Cleopatra Philopator; 69 -C August 10 or 12, 30 BC) was the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, nominally survived as pharaoh by her son Caesarion.