“In praising Antony I have dispraised Caesar.”
- c. 69 BC – August 10, 30 BC
- Egyptian
- Queen of Egypt, Last Active Ruler of the Ptolemaic Dynasty, Diplomat, Politician
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Quote
“In praising Antony I have dispraised Caesar.”
Explanation
This quote reveals the inherent tension in divided loyalties and rival powers. By stating, “In praising Antony I have dispraised Caesar,” Cleopatra acknowledges that admiration for one figure—Mark Antony—implies criticism or rejection of his rival, Julius Caesar or possibly Octavian (later Augustus). This reflects the political and emotional complexity of her alliances, where support for one Roman leader was necessarily an affront to another, especially in a time when Rome’s power struggle determined Egypt’s fate.
Historically, Cleopatra’s relationships with Julius Caesar and later Mark Antony were not only personal but also strategic. She aligned herself with Antony during the Roman civil wars, standing in opposition to Octavian. Her praise for Antony was not simply affection—it was a political declaration. In a world where alliances were acts of war, favouring one man meant condemning his enemy, and Cleopatra, as a ruler, was fully aware of the consequences of her words and actions.
In modern terms, the quote speaks to the inevitability of polarization in public praise, particularly in politics, business, or competitive fields. Elevating one leader, idea, or institution often implies critique of the alternative. It warns us to be mindful of the implicit judgments embedded in our praise, and reflects the broader truth that every endorsement may be seen as a choice with consequences—especially in matters of power, loyalty, and public perception.
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