Cleopatras

Cleopatras is a name borne by several women of the Hellenistic world, especially in the Ptolemaic dynasty of Egypt. The given name Cleopatra derives from the Greek kleopatra, meaning "glory of the father." The most famous bearer is Cleopatra VII Philopator, who reigned as the last active ruler of Ptolemaic Egypt (often styled Cleopatra VII). Her alliances with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony and her death after their defeat in 30 BCE helped end the Hellenistic era in Egypt and usher in Roman rule.

Beyond Cleopatra VII, other Cleopatras appear in Egyptian royal lineages, though with less historical detail. Cleopatra II Thea Philopator and Cleopatra III Thea Philopator were queens who co-ruled or acted as regents during periods of dynastic struggle in the 2nd and 1st centuries BCE. Cleopatra I Philometor, a Seleucid princess, became queen of Egypt by marriage to Ptolemy V, aligning two Hellenistic realms. Cleopatra IV, Cleopatra V Tryphaena, and Cleopatra VI Philometor Soteira are listed in later genealogies, but information about their reigns is sparse and disputed.

The name also appears in other Hellenistic contexts, including Cleopatra of Macedon, sister of Alexander the Great and wife of Philip III, illustrating the broader cultural use of the name. In modern times, the Cleopatras are often associated with the image of ancient Egypt, feminine rule, and political intrigue, with Cleopatra VII remaining the primary reference point in popular culture.