Ptolemy XIV Philopator II, member of the lagid dynasty, reigned over Egypt at a pivotal time. Born around 60 BC. AD, he succeeded Ptolemy XIII in 47 BC. AD, becoming one of the last pharaohs of Egypt before it came under Roman rule.
The reign of Ptolemy XIV coincided with crucial moments in Egyptian history, notably the famous connection between Cleopatra VII, his older sister, and Julius Caesar. Cleopatra, who had been driven from power by Ptolemy XIII and his advisers, found in Caesar a powerful ally. After the defeat of Ptolemy XIII and his death, Cleopatra was restored to the throne, and Ptolemy XIV became his co-regent at the age of 12.
The reign of Ptolemy XIV was essentially marked by the close relationship between Cleopatra and Roma. Caesar and Cleopatra had a son, Caesarion, who was proclaimed Caesar's heir. This alliance strengthened the position of Egypt and allowed Cleopatra to increase her influence. Ptolemy XIV, meanwhile, played a minor role in the affairs of the country, being largely overshadowed by his sister and the growing Roman presence.
In 44 BC. J.-C., following the assassination of Julius Caesar, Cleopatra returned to Egypt with Caesarion. Ptolemy XIV continued to reign alongside his sister, although his power remained limited. However, the situation changed drastically when Cleopatra met Marc Antony, another influential Roman general. This new alliance became a threat to the position of Ptolemy XIV.
In 43 BC. BC, Ptolemy XIV died suddenly, probably poisoned on the orders of his sister Cleopatra. The latter's objective was to consolidate her power and ensure the succession of her son. Caesarion.
Factsheet
Dynasty | Lagid |
---|---|
Grandfather | Ptolemy IX |
Père | Ptolemy XII |
Sister and co-regent | Cleopatra VII |
Sister | Berenice IV |
Predecessor and brother | Ptolemy XIII |
Sister | Arsinoe IV |
An untraceable tomb
The tomb of Ptolemy XIV, like that of many other pharaohs of the Ptolemaic period, remains a mystery. Indeed, at present, no tomb has been discovered or identified by archaeologists and Egyptologists.
The Ptolemies used to bury their dead in elaborate tombs, often in or near Alexandria, the Ptolemaic capital. However, due to modern urbanization and rising waters, many of these tombs are now inaccessible or have been destroyed.
It is possible that Ptolemy XIV was buried near his sister and co-regent, Cleopatra VII, but the precise location of Cleopatra's tomb is also subject to debate. Some theories suggest that Cleopatra and her Roman lover, Mark Antony, may be buried in a temple known as the 'Tombos of the Osiris', in Al Minya, but this has not been confirmed.
The location of his final resting place remains an unsolved mystery of Egyptian archaeology. Research continues, and there is always the possibility that new discoveries could shed more light on this fascinating period of Egyptian history.
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In popular culture
In the film “Cleopatra” (1963), directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz and starring Elizabeth Taylor as Cleopatra, Ptolemy XIV is a minor character. He is presented as a young king manipulated by those around him, especially in the power struggle with Cleopatra.
In literature, Ptolemy XIV appears in a few historical novels centered on ancient Egypt. For example, in Margaret George's "The Memoirs of Cleopatra" he is portrayed as a complex character, ensnared in the political intrigues of his family.
Bibliography
ER Bevan in his book “The House of Ptolemy” provides a valuable overview of the Ptolemaic dynasty, including the reign of Ptolemy XIV. It delves into the details of the political and social life of the time, providing a solid foundation for understanding the administration of Egypt during this period.
Another renowned Egyptologist, Joyce Tyldesley, in her book “Cleopatra: Last Queen of Egypt”, explores in depth the complex relationship between Cleopatra and Ptolemy XIV. Tyldesley proposes the audacious hypothesis, as it is said earlier in the article, that Cleopatra would have orchestrated the premature death of Ptolemy XIV to guarantee the succession of her son, Caesarion.
Duane W. Roller, in his book “Cleopatra: A Biography”, also presents an informed look at the co-regency of Cleopatra and Ptolemy XIV. He underlines the challenge posed by the lack of sources from the period, which makes it difficult to determine the precise role of Ptolemy XIV within this complex relationship.
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