Cleopatra is one of those figures from history who continues to intrigue. She was the last Pharaoh of Egypt, lover of Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, and a skillful strategist. I've tried to find gifts that will appeal to people with very different interests: you'll find choices including a book, an action figure, movies, costumes and posters.
1. Cleopatra: Destiny's Queen
Ancient art and period accounts, along with commentary from the world's leading Egyptologists brings the fabled story of Cleopatra to life. DVD version. (Also: VHS version)2. Cleopatra Posters and Art Prints
"Cleopatra Asleep" (Joadoor) or "Cleopatra" by John Parrish: these art prints can be mounted on wood or framed with your choice of colors if you'd like.
3. Kleopatra
This 2001 book by Karen Essex is a fictionalized treatment of Cleopatra's life. She spells the name with a K to emphasize the Greek connections of the Ptolemys, the ruling family which ruled Egypt for many generations. This book - a sequel is in the works - focuses on the young life of Cleopatra, her trip to Rome with her father (with immense detail about Roman life and politics), her complex family relationships and her rise to power.4. Cleopatra (1999)
This TV miniseries, based on Margaret George's Memoirs of Cleopatra, takes advantage of more current understandings of Cleopatra's history in a sensuous story of love and politics.5. Cleopatra (1963)
Directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz and starring Rex Harrison, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Watch the stars chew up the scenery in this opulent movie. The electricity between Taylor and Burton, in the middle of their own love affair, helps make this costume epic a classic. DVD version. (Also: VHS version)6. Antony and Cleopatra: Passion For Power
Beyond the familiar love story is a tale perhaps even more interesting of Antony and Cleopatra. The focus is on Cleopatra, as one of the most captivating women of all time.7. Cleopatra's World: Alexandria Revealed
Through exploring the ruins of Cleopatra's city, we learn more about one of history's most intriguing women.8. Antony & Cleopatra (Dramatized)
Take Shakespeare's Cleopatra for a drive, or to the gym: this is an audio version of Antony and Cleopatra, in a BBC dramatization from Audible.com. You can listen to the audio on your computer, or transfer it to an MP3 player or even burn it to CD.9. Cleopatra Costumes
Dress up like the Queen of the Nile: choose from a variety of sizes and styles.