Antony tried to destabilize Octavian by elevating Caesarion, Cleopatra's son and a possible biological son of Julius Caesar. That claim threatened Octavian, whose authority depended heavily on adoption and association with Caesar. Roman leaders were effectively competing over who possessed the strongest connection to the dead dictator. Antony's marriage to Octavian's sister Octavia made the dispute still more personal and politically explosive.
Chapter · 7:18-10:10
Caesarion and the struggle for Caesar's legacy
Antony's support for Caesarion challenged Octavian's standing as Julius Caesar's adopted heir and sharpened the political road to war.