Cleopatra

“...much as Cleopatra or any other sovereign lady on the Rampage might exhibit her wealth in a pageant or procession.” (Page 109)

Cleopatra is considered by many to be the most famous Egyptian pharaoh ever to have lived. She reigned from 51 B.C. to 30 B.C. and was the last pharaoh of Egypt. She is reputably known for her alliance with Julius Caesar as well as her relationship with Mark Antony. Dickens alludes to this famous queen in order to develop Mrs. Joe as a character. He characterizes her as thinking very highly of herself, as if she is better than those who surround her, i.e. her husband and brother. This passage just so happens to follow her not being invited to Miss Havisham's home. The haughty attitude she assumes here is most likely related to her hurt feelings. It seems that Dickens purposely depicts Mrs. Joe in this dignified manner so that her dignity can later be destroyed when she is assaulted, similarly to how Cleopatra's reign ended when she committed suicide after Egypt was taken over by the Romans.

"Queen Cleopatra." King Tut Shop. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.kingtutshop.com/freeinfo/cleopatra.htm.

Cleopatra. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.divasthesite.com/images/Cleopatra/Cleopatra_intro.jpg.