Jacob Abbott's History of Cleopatra, Queen of Egypt offers a captivating exploration of one of history's most enigmatic figures, Cleopatra VII. As the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, Cleopatra's life was a tapestry of political intrigue, romance, and a relentless quest to preserve her nation's independence against the encroaching power of Rome. Abbott's 19th-century biography traces her journey from a young princess to a savvy monarch, delving into her influential relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. The narrative paints a vivid picture of a leader endowed...