[2] This work, although it depicts the extravagant lifestyle Cleopatra was perceived as leading (through the eyes of the poet Cavafy), also carries a bitter history with it.
In the case of "Alexandrian Kings," the poet uses plenty of irony to emphatically demonstrate the negative attitude he has towards Cleopatra's decisions on her unrightful inheritance.
The tragic irony lies in the fact that both Cleopatra and her children who unwittingly participate in the ceremony, are unaware of the dire fate that awaits them.
[6] The dramatic irony that arises from the contrast between the pursuits of the protagonists and their final outcome is made evident by the fact that while Cleopatra organizes this donation ceremony to impress the citizens of Alexandria, they are not at all convinced and are even fully aware of how meaningless it is.
"[7] The use of a hyphen after each name calls for a pause in reading as if something important is going to be heard next, even though everyone in the city of Alexandria knew that all these lands didn't truly belong to Cleopatra or her children.