Cleopatra

Sir Henry William Rider Haggard KBE [Knight Commander ] (22 June 1856 - 14 May 1925) was an English writer of adventure novels set in exotic locations, predominantly Africa, and a founder of the Lost World literary genre. His stories, situated at the lighter end of Victorian literature, continue to be popular and influential. One of his best works, Cleopatra: is an Account of the Fall and Vengeance of Harmachis.
The story is set in the Ptolemaic era of Ancient Egyptian history and revolves around the survival of a Dynasty bloodline protected by the Priesthood of Isis. The main character Harmachis (the living descendant of this Bloodline) is charged by the Priesthood to overthrow the supposed imposter Cleopatra, drive out the Romans and restore Egypt to its Golden era.
As is the case with the majority of Haggard's works, the story draws heavily upon Adventure and exotic concepts. The story, told from the point of view of the Egyptian priest, Harmachis, is recounted in biblical language, being in the form of papyrus scrolls found in a tomb. Haggard's portrait of Cleopatra is quite stunning, revealing her wit, her treachery, and her overwhelming presence. All of the characters are mixtures of good and evil, and evoke both sympathy and loathing. While much of the material on ancient Egyptian ritual is overdone, the often brilliant dialogue and the fateful interactions between the principal characters make the book quite unforgettable in comparison to Haggard's better known but more conventional adventure novels. "Cleopatra" goes unrecognized in most discussions of Haggard-perhaps because of its stilted language. (Wikipedia)

Sir Henry Rider Haggard, born on June 22, 1856, in Bradenham, United Kingdom, was a prominent English writer known for his adventure fiction, particularly those set in exotic locations like Africa. His novels often blend thrilling adventures with elements of fantasy and exploration. Haggard was also active in land reform efforts across the British Empire, advocating for improvements in the lives of indigenous peoples. He married Mariana Louisa Margitson in 1880, with whom he had two daughters. Haggard's parents were William Meybohm Rider Haggard and Ella Doveton.
Andrew Lang, born March 31, 1844, in Selkirk, United Kingdom, was a Scottish poet, novelist, and literary critic, best known for collecting folk and fairy tales. A scholar with a broad range of interests, Lang contributed to anthropology and was a notable figure at the University of St Andrews, where the Andrew Lang lectures were named in his honor. Lang's marriage to Leonora Blanche Alleyne in 1875 marked a personal chapter in his life. His legacy is deeply embedded in children's literature, with his fairy tale collections remaining influential. Lang passed away on July 20, 1912, in Banchory, United Kingdom.