Cleopatra and the Selfie Stick: How the Queen of the Nile Might Have Ruled Instagram

Cleopatra and the Selfie Stick: How the Queen of the Nile Might Have Ruled Instagram

Written by Terry Lawson on June 8, 2025 at 3:19 PM

The Pharaoh’s Pout

Ah, Cleopatra – the original queen of hearts and Instagram’s would-be monarch. When one thinks of the Egyptian icon, it’s easy to picture her lounging in opulent palaces, whispering sweet nothings in the ears of Roman generals, or dramatically unfurling herself from a rug (the ancient world’s version of a surprise party). But what if we added a sprinkle of modern-day spice to this ancient tale? Picture this: Cleopatra, not with her famous asp, but armed with a – drumroll, please – selfie stick.

Hashtag Ruler

In a world where Cleopatra harnesses the power of social media, she would be nothing short of an influencer sensation. Her legend, amplified by the glowing screen of an iPhone, would reach far beyond the papyrus scrolls of ancient historians. The hashtag #QueenOfTheNile would trend faster than you can say "Eternity." A single post of Cleopatra wearing her iconic cat-eye makeup would have teens in Greece to Gaul rushing to perfect their eyeliner flick.

Imagine her feed, filled with artsy shots of the Nile's sunrise, stylised shots of hieroglyphic-adorned walls, and, of course, a strategic sponsor post now and then. "Nile Bathtime Luxury Oil – fit for a queen, and for you!"

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Denarii

Her political acumen would certainly extend into the digital realm. Ever the strategist, Cleopatra’s selfies wouldn’t just be about lighting and angles (although lighting is crucial when portraying oneself in a godly fashion). She'd artfully use Instagram Stories to settle matters with Rome. One day a coy caption, "Will I stay or will I Rome?" – with a backdrop of a Roman laurel, the next a story featuring a still of her meeting with Marc Antony. Teaser trailers for a ruling dynasty.

As for those infamous Cleopatra ships, they wouldn't just be military vessels but luxury cruise experiences. "Why fight when you can indulge?" she might quip, posting an aerial shot from a drone.

Julius Caesar’s Meme-mento

Her relationship with Julius Caesar would be an inextricable part of her online narrative. Picture a Throwback Thursday post with Caesar at the helm of a caption reading: "Just two icons taking over the world, nbd #CaesarSaladDays". And lest we forget another strategic aspect – Cleopatra's Instagram presence could keep the Roman Senate at bay, their citizens more enthralled by the Queen’s latest fashion collaboration than upcoming conquests.

Antony and Cleopatra’s romance would fuel both gossip and gab; #Cleotony would undoubtedly become a 'ship name' rivaling the likes of modern-day contenders. Bouquet of roses? Try a virtual heart garden. Their night selfies under Egyptian stars with the caption "Stars are still brighter than Rome! 🌠 #EternalNight" would send the world into a frenzy.

The End of Likes… And Life

While social media wasn't there to live-stream the final acts of Cleopatra's life, imagine the poignant eulogies under an ethereal final post. Perhaps a close-up of her legendary asp with an enigmatic caption: "Bitten by destiny, embraced by eternity." Within moments, history aficionados around the globe would be Googling to get the low-down on what transpired, while conspiracy theorists spun theories faster than chariot wheels.

The #QueenOfTheNile hashtag would serve more than legacy; it would be a topic of ongoing debate and poetic lamentations. Her selfies, viewed within the annals of Instagram archives, may very well be considered treasures of 'virtual archaeology', replaced only by pet selfies from Egyptologist-inspired purr-suits.

Modern Monarchies

So, there you have it, dear reader: a playful plunge into a world where technology meets antiquity, and vanity reigns supreme. What would Cleopatra's tenure be without a tool for self-admiration? Instagram, with its regal filters and storytelling prowess, would elevate her allure, influence, and, dare I say, immortality across pixels.

Terry Lawson
Terry Lawson
Terry is a curious and imaginative writer with a passion for both history and technology. With a flair for humor, wit, and detailed storytelling, Terry paints vivid pictures of how historical figures and events might have unfolded differently if they had access to modern technology.