Cleopatra and the power of romantic love

When we peruse through the annals of history, there is a tale of a love affair and story that transcends the boundaries of time and society.

It's a romance that shook the ancient world and has left a permanent mark. This is one of history's most famous love affairs, involving Cleopatra, the Queen of Egypt, and Mark Antony, a powerful Roman general.

Their love affair was so romantic and even more profoundly, it was a romance that changed the political landscape of the ancient world.

However, that passion ended in doom. Amidst the splendour and impressiveness, especially of the appearance and style of empires that arouse curiosity and fascinating interest, this real-life love story reveals the power of romantic love and its influence on human events.

Though it ended in doom, it was profoundly human. And let me point out two things:

The power of seduction: Cleopatra was the most famous woman the world has ever witnessed. She was known for her beauty, intelligence, and charisma. This trapped Antony when they first met in 41 BC.

Her allure was a powerful weapon, which she used strategically to form an alliance with Antony against their common enemy, Octavian, who would later become Augustus. Their romance escalated in the costly and luxurious courts of Alexandria, with grand feasts, extravagant displays, and leisurely boat rides along the Nile.

Mind you, Mark Antony was married to Octavia, and amidst this very heavy romance, he left her to be with Cleopatra. Leaving his loyal Roman wife to be with a foreigner raised many concerns in Rome.

People were also concerned that Antony’s loyalties had shifted. Could he still be trusted to put Rome’s needs ahead of Egypt’s? These concerns played right into Octavian’s hands.

It’s no wonder then that their relationship was doomed to have a tragic end; it raised political tension, and Mark Antony lost a war that he should have by all means won. Antony and Cleopatra both ended up committing suicide after the loss.

No-go zones: If you're married like me, you and I have one hard fact that we must heed. There are women we should never try to get close to; they're romantic and gifted. If you see yourself in trouble, stay away. Cleopatra was a no-go zone, let's be frank. 

Solomon, the ancient ruler of Israel, once said, "For love is as strong as death, and jealousy is as enduring as the grave. Love flashes like fire, the brightest kind of flame. Many waters cannot quench love, nor can rivers drown it. If a man tried to buy love with all his wealth, his offer would be utterly scorned."

To sum it up, stay focused and avoid illicit relationships. They're strong. Don't fool yourself; being faithful is costly and sacrificial but rewarding. Some people should not get close to us for God's sake. 

Amani Kyala is a counsellor, writer, and teacher, 0626 512 144.