Strange History

18 Notorious Femme Fatales from History

Darren - May 25, 2025

Throughout history, the enigmatic femme fatale has captivated imaginations and dominated narratives with her blend of charm, intelligence, and danger. These women, often depicted as dangerously alluring figures, have left an indelible mark on culture and history. From ancient myths to modern tales, their stories reflect both fear and fascination. Whether manipulating powerful figures or challenging societal norms, femme fatales wield their influence in ways that are both mesmerizing and formidable. Join us as we delve into the lives of 20 such women whose legacies continue to intrigue and inspire.

NEXT >>

1. Cleopatra VII

Cleopatra VII, the last Pharaoh of Egypt, is renowned for her political acumen and strategic alliances with powerful Roman leaders Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. Her intelligence and charm were legendary, allowing her to maintain Egypt’s independence amidst the growing power of Rome. Cleopatra’s charisma and adeptness in diplomacy not only seduced leaders but also secured her as an enduring symbol of feminine power. Her life, marked by ambition and romance, continues to captivate historians and storytellers alike, weaving a narrative of allure and influence that transcends time.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

2. Mata Hari

Mata Hari, born Margaretha Geertruida Zelle, became a legendary figure as an exotic dancer and alleged spy during World War I. Her allure and seductive performances captivated audiences across Europe, but her life took a dramatic turn when she was accused of espionage. Executed by firing squad in 1917, Mata Hari’s story has sparked debates about her guilt, with some viewing her as a scapegoat. Her enigmatic persona and mysterious life continue to fuel intrigue, painting her as the quintessential femme fatale whose life was as dramatic as any fiction.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

3. Lucrezia Borgia

Lucrezia Borgia, an Italian noblewoman of the infamous Borgia family, is often depicted as a cunning and manipulative figure entangled in political intrigues and alleged assassinations. Her life was marred by scandal and rumor, fueled by the power struggles of her father, Pope Alexander VI, and her brother, Cesare Borgia. Despite the dark legends surrounding her, some historians suggest Lucrezia was more a pawn than a player in these machinations. Her story remains a complex tapestry of myth and reality, embodying the femme fatale archetype with a blend of allure and intrigue.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

4. Anne Boleyn

Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII, played a pivotal role in England’s religious transformation. Her marriage to Henry was a catalyst for the English Reformation, leading to the creation of the Church of England. Anne’s intelligence and ambition captivated Henry, but her eventual fall from grace was swift and brutal. Executed on charges of treason, adultery, and incest, Anne’s life and tragic end continue to be subjects of fascination and debate. Her legacy endures as a powerful yet tragic figure who reshaped the course of English history.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

5. Salome

Salome, a figure from the New Testament, is often portrayed as a dangerous seductress due to her role in the execution of John the Baptist. According to biblical accounts, Salome’s dance so pleased her stepfather, Herod Antipas, that he promised to grant her any wish. At her mother’s behest, she requested the head of John the Baptist on a platter. Salome’s story has inspired countless artistic interpretations, cementing her image as the quintessential femme fatale who uses her allure to wield significant influence and change the course of events.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

6. Delilah

Delilah, a character from the Book of Judges in the Bible, is a classic example of a femme fatale. She is known for her role in the downfall of Samson, a man of immense strength. Entrusted with discovering the secret of his power, Delilah coaxed Samson into revealing that his strength lay in his uncut hair. Betraying his trust, she had his hair cut while he slept, leading to his capture by the Philistines. Delilah’s story endures as a powerful narrative of betrayal and seduction, illustrating the profound impact of her actions.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

7. Jezebel

Jezebel, a Phoenician princess, became the queen of Israel through her marriage to King Ahab. Her name is often synonymous with wickedness and treachery due to her efforts to promote the worship of Baal, challenging the traditional religious order of Israel. Her story is one of power and influence, but also of manipulation and conflict. Her actions led to a violent backlash, culminating in her dramatic death, which was prophesied by Elijah. Jezebel’s life remains emblematic of the femme fatale, a woman whose influence and ambition left a lasting impression on history.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

8. Elizabeth Bathory

Elizabeth Bathory, a Hungarian noblewoman, is often remembered as one of history’s most notorious female serial killers. Known as the “Blood Countess,” she was accused of horrific crimes toward hundreds of young women, allegedly in pursuit of eternal youth. Her gruesome legend suggests she believed that bathing in the blood of virgins would preserve her beauty. Imprisoned for life for her crimes, Bathory’s story continues to fascinate and horrify, intertwining fact and fiction to create a chilling example of the femme fatale’s dark allure and lethal influence.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

9. Griselda Blanco

Griselda Blanco, a notorious Colombian drug lord, earned the nickname “Black Widow” for her ruthless approach to the drug trade and her role in the violent Miami drug wars of the 1970s and 1980s. Known for her ferocity and cunning, Blanco was instrumental in establishing the U.S. cocaine market, amassing immense wealth and power. Her life was marked by extreme violence, including numerous alleged murders to eliminate rivals and maintain control. Blanco’s legacy as a fearsome and influential figure in the drug underworld exemplifies the modern femme fatale’s dangerous allure and strategic prowess.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

10. Marie Antoinette

Marie Antoinette, the last Queen of France before the French Revolution, is often remembered for her extravagant lifestyle and perceived indifference to her subjects’ plight. Her infamous phrase, “Let them eat cake,” though likely apocryphal, captured the public’s resentment towards her perceived decadence. Her actions and lifestyle, symbolizing the excesses of the monarchy, contributed to the revolutionary fervor that ultimately led to her downfall. Despite her tragic end, Marie Antoinette remains a figure of fascination and debate, embodying the complex interplay of power, privilege, and public perception.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

11. Catherine the Great

Catherine the Great, Empress of Russia, reigned from 1762 to 1796 and is celebrated for her ambitious expansion of the Russian Empire. Her rule was marked by significant political and cultural advancements, as she sought to modernize Russia along Western European lines. Catherine’s reign saw territorial growth and internal reform, strengthening Russia’s position as a major European power. Despite facing early challenges to her authority, her intelligence and determination ensured a long and impactful reign. Catherine’s legacy as a powerful leader highlights the strategic and influential nature of a historical femme fatale.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

12. Messalina

Messalina, the third wife of Roman Emperor Claudius, is remembered for her notorious excesses and political machinations. Her life was characterized by scandalous behavior and ambitious plots, aiming to consolidate power within the Roman court. Messalina’s alleged antics and involvement in several conspiracies against political rivals, including attempts to overthrow her husband, have cemented her reputation as a femme fatale. Ultimately executed for her treacherous actions, Messalina’s story serves as a cautionary tale of unchecked ambition and the volatile nature of power in ancient Rome.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

13. Empress Dowager Cixi

Empress Dowager Cixi was a formidable figure who effectively controlled the Chinese government during the late Qing dynasty. Rising from the status of a low-ranking concubine, Cixi demonstrated remarkable political acumen, becoming the de facto ruler of China for nearly half a century. Her reign was marked by efforts to modernize China while maintaining traditional power structures. Although her legacy is controversial, with accusations of conservatism and resistance to reform, Cixi’s influence on Chinese politics and culture was profound. Her story exemplifies the complex role of a femme fatale in shaping history through strategic governance.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

14. Agrippina the Younger

Agrippina the Younger, mother of Emperor Nero, was a prominent and powerful figure in the Roman Empire. Known for her political savvy and ambition, she maneuvered her way into the highest circles of power, influencing Roman politics and policy. Agrippina’s strategic marriage to Emperor Claudius and her role in securing Nero’s succession exhibit her deft manipulation of imperial dynamics. Her life was marked by intrigue and eventual tragedy, as her own son ordered her execution. Agrippina’s legacy as a cunning and influential matriarch underscores her status as a quintessential femme fatale in ancient Rome.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

15. Anne Bonny

Anne Bonny, an infamous 18th-century pirate, is celebrated for her daring exploits across the Caribbean Sea. Born in Ireland, she defied societal norms by leaving her home for a life of adventure and rebellion. Bonny’s fierce reputation was solidified through her partnership with fellow pirate “Calico Jack” Rackham and her participation in numerous raids. Known for her courage and tenacity, she fought alongside male pirates, often in disguise. Her legend continues to captivate, embodying the spirit of independence and defiance that defines the archetypal femme fatale of the high seas.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

16. Bonnie Parker

Bonnie Parker, infamous for her role in the criminal duo Bonnie and Clyde, became a legendary figure during the Great Depression. Her partnership with Clyde Barrow was characterized by a series of bank robberies and shootouts that captured public imagination. Bonnie’s story is one of rebellion and romance, as she defied societal expectations to live a life on the run. Her boldness and charisma were immortalized in newspapers and later in film, crafting a narrative of the femme fatale who lives by her own rules amidst chaos and danger.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

17. Phoolan Devi

Phoolan Devi, famously known as the “Bandit Queen,” was an Indian bandit who later transitioned into a political career. Her life was marked by resilience and transformation, rising from a life of poverty and abuse to become a feared bandit leader. Devi gained national notoriety for her role in the 1981 Behmai massacre, which stemmed from personal vendettas. After serving time in prison, she entered politics, advocating for the oppressed, and was elected to the Indian Parliament. Her story is a testament to her complex legacy, blending themes of retribution, survival, and empowerment.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

18. Theda Bara

Theda Bara, an iconic figure of early Hollywood, was renowned for her roles as a femme fatale in silent films. Dubbed the “Vamp,” Bara’s career was defined by her portrayal of seductive and mysterious women, captivating audiences with her exotic allure. Her breakout role in the 1915 film A Fool There Was established her as a cinematic legend. Theda Bara’s influence on film history endures, illustrating the power of the femme fatale archetype in shaping popular culture. Her legacy invites us to reflect on the multifaceted nature of these historical and fictional figures, urging us to consider their lasting impact on society.

<< Previous