Parysatis

Definition

Parysatis was a Persian queen, the daughter of the satrap of Media, and wife of King Darius II. She played a significant role in the political landscape of the Achaemenid Empire, especially during the reign of her husband and in the events that followed. Her influence extended through her children and alliances, reflecting the complex interplay of power in the empire during the period leading up to and including Alexander the Great's conquests.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Parysatis was known for her political acumen and influence in royal affairs, particularly during her husband's reign.
2. She had several children with Darius II, including Artaxerxes II, who succeeded him as king.
3. Parysatis was involved in various palace intrigues and supported her son's claim to the throne after Darius II's death.
4. Her family's connections and rivalries played a significant role in the shifting power dynamics within the Achaemenid Empire leading up to Alexander's invasions.
5. Parysatis' legacy reflects the often-overlooked role of women in ancient Persian politics, as she navigated a male-dominated environment.

Review Questions

• How did Parysatis influence the political dynamics within the Achaemenid Empire during Darius II's reign?
  • Parysatis wielded significant influence over political decisions during Darius II's reign, often engaging in palace intrigues that affected royal succession. Her support for her son Artaxerxes II was crucial in his ascension to the throne following Darius' death. Additionally, her connections to other powerful families allowed her to maneuver effectively within the intricate web of Achaemenid court politics, making her an important figure in shaping the empire's future.
• Discuss the implications of Parysatis' relationships with her children on the succession crisis that followed Darius II's reign.
  • Parysatis' relationships with her children significantly impacted the succession crisis that ensued after Darius II's death. As a mother determined to secure power for her son Artaxerxes II, she navigated complex familial alliances and rivalries. This led to conflicts with other claimants to the throne, showcasing how personal relationships intertwined with political aspirations in the Achaemenid Empire, ultimately influencing who would rule Persia during a critical period before Alexander's conquests.
• Evaluate Parysatis' role in Achaemenid politics and how it reflects broader themes of gender and power in ancient empires.
  • Parysatis' role exemplifies how women could exert considerable influence behind the scenes in ancient empires, challenging traditional notions of gender roles. Through her strategic marriages and alliances, she navigated a male-dominated political landscape and actively participated in critical decisions affecting the empire. This reflects broader themes of gender and power in ancient societies, where women like Parysatis could shape political outcomes despite systemic barriers, highlighting their importance in historical narratives that often focus on male figures.

Related terms

Achaemenid Empire: An ancient Persian empire that existed from the 6th to 4th centuries BCE, known for its vast territorial expanse and cultural diversity.

Darius II: The king of the Achaemenid Empire from 423 to 404 BCE, whose reign was marked by internal strife and external challenges, including conflict with Greece.

Artaxerxes: The son of Darius II and Parysatis, who became king of Persia after his father's death and continued to face various challenges during his reign.