Cleopatra’s death – and cultural afterlife

From her supposed death by snakebite to the location of her tomb, Cleopatra's final chapter is surrounded in mystery. Islam Issa reveals the truth behind the myth

Close-up of an actress portraying Cleopatra in a film or television production. She wears dramatic ancient Egyptian-style eye makeup with bold teal and black kohl liner, a black braided wig with gold cuff adornments, and gold earrings. The image is in full colour with warm and teal tones. Bold white text reading "CLEOPATRA" appears at the top, and "EPISODE FOUR" is displayed in dark bold text in the lower left corner (Photo via Getty)

Published: May 24, 2026 at 7:46 AM

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The final chapter of Cleopatra’s life is shrouded in mystery. Did she really take her own life? Was an asp involved? And why don’t we know where her tomb is? In this final episode of our four-part Sunday Series on the ancient queen’s life and times, Islam Issa – professor of public humanities at Birmingham City University – tackles these questions, and explores just why Cleopatra continues to fascinate us, thousands of years later.

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Go Beyond the Podcast

Captivated by Cleopatra? Matt Elton has curated a collection of essential reading, listening and viewing from the HistoryExtra vaults to help bring the ancient queen to life.

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And don’t miss our HistoryExtra Academy Royal Women, with Professor Kate Williams, for more on some of the past’s most powerful female leaders – from Cleopatra to Elizabeth II.

Authors

Matt EltonPodcast editor

Matt Elton is the podcast editor at HistoryExtra

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