# Book II: The Fall of Harmachis explained — Cleopatra

> Chapter companion for Cleopatra by H. Rider Haggard.

## What happens

Harmachis, now Cleopatra's chief astrologer, is betrayed by Paulus, leading to the failure of the Egyptian plot. He reveals the secret of the pyramid treasure and escapes to become the hermit Olympus, later counseling Cleopatra to her ruin.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Betrayal

Harmachis is betrayed by Paulus, a trusted captain, leading to the collapse of the Egyptian rebellion.

### Power and Corruption

Cleopatra's rule and the corrupting influence of power are central to Harmachis's plot and its failure.

## Character check-ins

### Harmachis

The protagonist and Egyptian prince whose plot to overthrow Cleopatra fails due to betrayal.

### Cleopatra

The Queen of Egypt, whom Harmachis serves as astrologer and later counsels to her downfall.

### Paulus

The captain who betrays Harmachis, causing the plot to fail.

### Charmion

A spy for the Egyptian cause who reveals herself to Harmachis.

### Olympus

The identity Harmachis adopts after escaping, as a hermit who counsels Cleopatra.

## Key lines

> Harmachis is betrayed by Paulus and the Plot Fails

Paulus reveals Harmachis's conspiracy, causing the rebellion to collapse.

_Key turning point leading to Harmachis's downfall._

> Harmachis Reveals the Secret of the Pyramid Treasure

Harmachis discloses the location of hidden treasure to Cleopatra.

_Critical event that shifts the balance of power._

> Harmachis Escapes and Becomes the Hermit Olympus

After the plot fails, Harmachis flees and assumes the identity of Olympus.

_Harmachis's transformation and survival strategy._

> Harmachis (as Olympus) Counsels Cleopatra to Her Ruin

In disguise, Harmachis advises Cleopatra in ways that lead to her destruction.

_Final act of revenge and fulfillment of the prophecy._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/cleopatra_se/chapters/book-ii-the-fall-of-harmachis
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/cleopatra_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/cleopatra_se/chapters