Women and dynasty at the Hellenistic imperial courts

Abstract

The Hellenistic empires were unique in the exceptional power royal women could exert. After the death of Alexander, a lack of able male successors offered women of the Argead dynasty a chance to rise to power; they thereby paved the way for later generations. This chapter focuses on royal courts as the main venues where this took place. It examines the role of women as wives, mothers, regents, and heiresses; their agency in creating imperial cohesion through marriage; and their key roles within the household. The chapter also reconsiders the role of concubines at the Hellenistic courts.