Talk:Zenobia
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In 260, her forces were responsible for an unprecedented victory against Rome: not only were Roman forces defeated, but the emperor Valerian was captured and taken back to Zenobia's court. This was the only such occurrance in Rome's history and it demanded a reply.
I took the above out, because she wasn't yet reigning in 260. Also, the source I have says that it was King Sapor of Persia (not Zenobia's husband Odenathus of Palmyra) who defeated and captured Valerian in 260. -- Marj Tiefert
Argh -- you're right -- Zenobia and Odenathus defeated Sapor...but Valerian was still made into a footstool...! JHK
Are we sure about the birth name? It would make more sense if "Septimia" derived from her husband's being "Septimius Odanathus," and I can't find "Bathzabbi" anywhere. -- isis 24 Aug 2002
Okay, I'm reading Gibbon's "Decline and Fall . . ." (which I HIGHLY recomend, BTW), and he has the following description of Zenobia (starting in year 272, ch. XI, Vol 1)
She claimed her descent from the Macedonian kings of Egypt, equalled in beauty her ancestor Cleopatra, and far surpassed that princess in chastity and valour. Zenobia was esteemed the most lovely as well as the most heroic of her sex. She was of a dark complexion (for in speaking of a lady these trifles become important). Her teeth were of a pearly whiteness, and her large black eyes sparkled with uncommon fire, tempered by the most attractive sweetness. Her voice was strong and harmonious. Her manly understanding was strengthened and adorned by study. She was not ignorant of the Latin tongue, but possessed in equal perfection the Greek, Syriac and the Egyptian languges.
About the removal of the Category:Ancient Roman women: I see a conflict of that with the Cat:Ancient Roman enemies and allies. But if somebody is terribly keen of having both cats in, that ok with me. muriel@pt 09:41, 26 Nov 2004 (UTC)