People > Parysatis II

Parysatis II

Background

Parysatis II, also known as Apama, was a prominent figure in the Achaemenid Persian Empire during the 4th century BCE. She was a member of the Achaemenid royal family, known for her influential role as a queen and a mother of several kings. Parysatis II was born into the Achaemenid royal family, which ruled over the Persian Empire from approximately 550 BCE to 330 BCE. She was likely descended from a long line of Persian nobility, with close ties to the Achaemenid kings.

Parysatis II married Darius II, who ruled as the king of the Achaemenid Empire from 423 BCE to 404 BCE. As queen consort, she held a position of considerable influence within the Persian court and played a role in court politics and administration. Parysatis II was the mother of several notable Persian kings, including Artaxerxes II, Cyrus the Younger, and Ostanes. Her sons would go on to play significant roles in the affairs of the Persian Empire, particularly during the tumultuous period of the 4th century BCE.

Parysatis II was involved in the political intrigues and power struggles that characterized the Persian court during her lifetime. Her influence and connections within the royal family allowed her to exert considerable influence over the affairs of the empire. The struggle for succession and the competing ambitions of her sons often led to tensions within the royal family. Parysatis II's influence on Persian politics, particularly through her relationships with her sons and her involvement in court affairs, left a lasting impact on the history of the Achaemenid Empire. Her role as a queen and a mother of kings shaped the dynamics of power and succession within the Persian royal family.

Parysatis II, as a queen and mother of several Persian kings, played a significant role in the politics and affairs of the Achaemenid Empire during the 4th century BCE. Her influence within the Persian court and her relationships with her sons contributed to the dynamics of power and succession within the royal family. While specific details about her life and actions may be limited, Parysatis II remains an important figure in Persian history, representing the influence of royal women in shaping the destiny of empires.