Cleopatra's life existed at a perilous crossroads where femininity met authority, making her a compelling figure in history. The great playwright Euripides had long cautioned that intelligent women posed a threat, and Cleopatra epitomized this warning. Her political acumen and ambition challenged the societal norms of her time, as she navigated the tumultuous waters of power in a male-dominated world.

Stacy Schiff's exploration of Cleopatra reveals the complexities of her character and the risks she faced. Her story is not just one of ambition but also of survival in a time when savvy women were often viewed with suspicion. Cleopatra's legacy as a powerful ruler continues to provoke discussion about the roles of women in leadership and the perception of their strength.