'Fascinating, brilliantly researched, this sweeping, wonderful book brings Cleopatra and her sister queens to vibrant life' KATE WILLIAMS

Today, Queen Cleopatra VII of Egypt is the most famous woman of the ancient world. Yet she was not the only queen of her generation. She had an elder sister, Berenike, and a younger one, Arsinoe, both of whom also ruled Egypt.

The circumstances in which three sister queens each sought power for themselves were unprecedented. Women had not ruled Egypt since the time of the Pharaohs, 1,500 years earlier. But it was also anathema to the Romans, who had many vested interests in Egypt. As Republicans, the Romans despised monarchy - a monarchy controlled by women was beyond comprehension.

Acclaimed historian Jane Draycott tells the fascinating story of three powerful sisters, their rivalry and their efforts to stand up to the might of Rome.

The ancient world of the Mediterranean and the Near East saw the birth and collapse of great civilizations. While several of these are well known, many have been unjustly forgotten. History is overflowing with different cultures that have all evolved over time, sometimes dissolving or reforming, though ultimately shaping the way we continue to live. But for every culture that has been remembered, how many have been forgotten?

This comprehensive guide explores those civilizations that have faded from the pages of textbooks but played a significant role in the development of modern society. Forgotten Peoples of the Ancient World offers an alternative history focusing on the names we aren’t familiar with, from the Hurrians to the Hephthalites and everyone in between, providing a unique overview of humanity’s history from approximately 3000 BC – 550 AD. Specially drawn maps, artifacts, and artworks help to tell the stories of forty lost peoples, exposing a diversity of culture, influence, and achievement.

Forgotten Peoples of the Ancient World is an immersive, thought-provoking, and entertaining book for anyone interested in ancient history.

‘Fulvia’ van gerenommeerd historica Jane Draycott reconstrueert het leven van een van de beruchtste vrouwen uit het oude Rome.