Married Two of Her Brothers
In Cleopatra’s time, dynastic marriages, including those among family members, were not uncommon. However, Cleopatra’s marriages to her two brothers, Ptolemy XIII and Ptolemy XIV, were more about political necessity than personal choice. These unions were based on established precedent and aimed at ensuring her legitimacy as a ruler.
Despite her reservations, Cleopatra’s desire to ascend to the throne of Egypt compelled her to accept these marriages and rule as co-regent alongside her brothers. It serves as a stark reminder of the intricate political dynamics and constraints faced by royal figures in the ancient world, where personal desires often took a backseat to the demands of maintaining power.
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