by Stephanie Dray | Nov 15, 2011 | Cleopatra Selene, Daughters of the Nile, Lily of the Nile, Research, Song of the Nile
The ancient kingdom of Mauretania, once ruled by Juba II and Cleopatra Selene, is lost to the sands of time. But there are the ruins. I’ve posted photos of the area near Selene’s capital city, Iol-Caesaria, modern-day Cherchell Algeria. Now, thanks to...
by Stephanie Dray | Nov 2, 2011 | Articles, Cleopatra Selene, Daughters of the Nile, For Readers, Heroines, Lily of the Nile, Miscellany, Research, Song of the Nile
For much of its history, Rome depended upon Egypt for grain. While the Romans considered themselves an agricultural nation, and paid great homage to farming in literature, poetry, and art, the simple truth was that they couldn’t feed themselves. By the time Cleopatra...
by Stephanie Dray | Jul 12, 2011 | Daughters of the Nile, Lily of the Nile, Research, Song of the Nile
Augustus Caesar’s most lasting monument is the Ara Pacis, a monument to peace. It’s a splendid work of propaganda, and one could spend a lifetime unraveling all its hidden symbols and meanings. After having defeated Cleopatra and Mark Antony, Augustus...
by Stephanie Dray | Jun 27, 2011 | Articles, Daughters of the Nile, Research
Cross-posted from: Unusual Historicals With the wicked Egyptian seductress dead, the Romans had every reason to believe the Republic would return to normal. Oh, some might argue that Cleopatra’s conqueror now meant to destroy the Republic and rule as king. He had,...
by Stephanie Dray | May 31, 2011 | Articles, Daughters of the Nile, FAQ, My Works
One of the mysteries surrounding the Ptolemaic dynasty is exactly why Cleopatra Selene’s son, Ptolemy, was murdered by his first cousin, Caligula. The traditional belief is that Caligula was simply a madman who resorted to crazy rages whenever the whim struck...
by Stephanie Dray | May 20, 2011 | Cleopatra Selene, Daughters of the Nile, Lily of the Nile, Research, Song of the Nile
Many thanks to the Ancient World Mapping Center for giving me permission to post this map in anticipation of the release of Song of the Nile, my forthcoming novel about Cleopatra’s daughter. I’m delighted to be able to share it with readers.
