Many actresses have played Cleopatra in the movies. The role of a beautiful, powerful ruler draped in jewelry is one that understandably appeals to many leading ladies.

The most famous Cleopatra was undoubtedly Elizabeth Taylor in the 1963 Cleopatra movie. Richard Burton played Marc Anthony and the cast also included well known names such as Rex Harrion, Martin Landau, George Cole and even Roddy McDowall.

The film wasn't liked by the critics and definitely seems "clunky" today yet remains the definitive movie version of the story. Although it won no Oscars for acting, direction or writing it did win them for art direction, cinematography and costumes. Whatever its faults it was a lush production.

Image: Cleopatra DVD

One reason that Cleopatra appeals so strongly to Hollywood is the famous relationship between herself and Roman Marc Anthony (sometimes spelt Mark Anthony - the original Latin was Marcus Antonius). This story was recounted by historian Plutarch then dramatised and popularised by Shakespeare.

Cleopatra was initially the mistress of Julius Ceasar of Rome - a clever political move to gain his backing (the tale of Cleopatra having herself delivered to him rolled up in a carpet is a classic scene).

After Caesar was assassinated Cleopatra switched her attentions to Marc Antony. She apparently used her charms to enthrall him and he left his wife in Rome to live in Alexandria with Cleopatra. Cleopatra financed Antony's military campaigns - campaigns which, of course, met with her approval and furthered her own political aims.

Cleopatra ultimately miscalculated. Rome became increasingly angry with Marc Antony's behaviour until eventually they declared war on Egypt. It soon became clear that Anthony's forces could not stand against the Roman fleet and Cleopatra fled.

In the true style of a tragic heroine Cleopatra commited suicide by deliberately enticing a posionous asp to bite her.

Picture: Scene from Antony and Cleopatra Art Poster Print, 13x18