Death of Cleopatra VII
Cleopatra VII, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, takes her own life by allowing an asp to bite her, choosing death over submission to Octavian's Roman forces.
Setting
The private chambers of Cleopatra VII in her palace in Alexandria, a grand room adorned with lavish Hellenistic and Egyptian decor. The room is spacious with high ceilings, opening to a balcony overlooking the harbor. The walls are decorated with intricate frescoes depicting scenes of Egyptian mythology and Ptolemaic rulers.
Characters
Cleopatra VII
primary
A striking woman in her late 30s with a regal bearing, olive complexion, and piercing dark eyes that convey both intelligence and sorrow. Her face bears the marks of recent stress but retains its classical beauty, with high cheekbones and full lips. She wears her black hair in the traditional Hellenistic melon hairstyle, adorned with a golden diadem featuring a coiled uraeus serpent.
Iras
secondary
A young Egyptian woman in her early twenties, slender yet strong from years of service. Her dark, almond-shaped eyes glisten with unshed tears, framed by long lashes. Her olive skin is smooth, and her black hair is neatly braided and adorned with simple golden pins. Her hands are delicate but show the calluses of diligent work.
Charmion
secondary
A slender woman in her late twenties with olive skin, dark almond-shaped eyes, and long black hair tied back in a simple braid. Her posture is graceful but tense, reflecting the gravity of the moment. She bears a small scar on her left forearm, a mark from years of devoted service.
Roman Guard
background
A tall, muscular man in his early 30s with a square jaw and short-cropped dark hair. His face bears the weathered look of a seasoned soldier, with a scar running from his left eyebrow to his cheekbone. His stance is rigid, disciplined, and his piercing brown eyes are alert, scanning the area for any signs of trouble.
Dialog
Cleopatra VII
We shall not grace Octavian's triumph, my dearest ones. The asp's kiss is kinder than Rome's chains.
Charmion
Ankh, udja, seneb, Divine One. The sacred serpent awaits your command.
Iras
Nebet-i, please... let me... let me stay with you until...
Cleopatra VII
Peace, lotus blossom. We cross together to where Antony waits by Osiris' side.
Charmion
The hour comes, Majesty. The asp grows restless in its basket.
Cleopatra VII
Then let Rome find a queen's corpse, not a prisoner. Charmion, the asp. Iras, the mirror.
Iras
Yes, nebet-i... yes...