The Fall of Antony and Cleopatra

Antony followed her, abandoning his troops. The decision sealed their fate.

Back in Alexandria, they prepared for siege. Octavian’s forces advanced methodically,

cutting off supply lines and winning over Egyptian nobles. In August 30 BCE, as Roman legions

entered the city, Antony—receiving false word that Cleopatra had died—threw himself on his sword.

He did not die immediately and was carried to Cleopatra’s mausoleum, where she had barricaded herself with Caesarion

and the royal treasure. He died in her arms. Cleopatra then entered negotiations with Octavian,

perhaps hoping to secure a future for Caesarion.