What were the different names and epithets associated with Artaxerxes II?

Artaxerxes II was known by his birth name Arses, and adopted the regnal name Artaxerxes. In Ancient Greek, his name was Artaxerxēs, and he was given the epithet "Mnemon," meaning "remembering" or "having a good memory." His birth name, Arses, is believed to derive from the Old Persian word for "man" or "hero."

Who were Artaxerxes II's parents and what was his relationship to his predecessor?

Artaxerxes II was the son and successor of Darius II, who ruled the Achaemenid Empire from 423 to 405/4 BC. His mother was Parysatis, who was the half-sister of Darius II.

What was the outcome of the conflict between Artaxerxes II and Cyrus the Younger?

The conflict culminated in the Battle of Cunaxa in 401 BC, where Artaxerxes II's forces defeated and killed Cyrus the Younger. The subsequent journey of Cyrus's stranded Greek mercenaries was famously recounted by Xenophon in his work, the *Anabasis*.

Besides Cyrus the Younger, what other revolts did Artaxerxes II contend with during his reign?

Artaxerxes II had to manage several other significant revolts. These included a revolt by Evagoras I in Cyprus between 391 and 380 BC, a revolt by the Phoenicians around 380 BC, and the major Great Satraps' Revolt in the 360s and 350s BC, led by figures like Datames, Ariobarzanes, and Autophradates.

How is the reign of Artaxerxes II documented historically?

The reign of Artaxerxes II is primarily documented through classical Greek sources, which tend to focus on events in the western parts of the empire. Information becomes notably sparser after the death of Cyrus the Younger in 401 BC.

What is the significance of Plutarch's biography of Artaxerxes II?

Plutarch wrote the only known ancient biography of an Achaemenid king, titled *Life of Artaxerxes II*. However, modern historians often caution that Plutarch's work, while valuable, should be treated with skepticism due to its potential inaccuracies.

What was Artaxerxes II's involvement in the Corinthian War?

Artaxerxes II intervened in the Corinthian War (395–387 BC) by providing financial subsidies to Sparta's enemies, including Athens, Thebes, and Corinth. This strategy aimed to divert Spartan attention away from Asia Minor.

What was the outcome of the Battle of Cnidus in 394 BC?

The Battle of Cnidus in 394 BC saw the Achaemenid Empire, allied with Athens, decisively defeat the Spartan fleet. This victory shifted naval power dynamics in the Aegean Sea.

What was the King's Peace, and what role did Artaxerxes II play in it?

The King's Peace, also known as the Treaty of Antalcidas, was established in 387 BC through the mediation of Artaxerxes II. This treaty ended the Corinthian War, returning the Greek cities of Ionia and Aeolis to Persian control while confirming Spartan hegemony on the Greek mainland.

What was the objective and result of the Achaemenid campaign against Egypt in 373 BC?

In 373 BC, Artaxerxes II launched a campaign to reconquer Egypt, which had revolted earlier in his reign. The expedition, led by Pharnabazus II and Iphicrates, ultimately failed due to logistical issues, Egyptian defenses, and internal disagreements among the commanders.

How did the Great Satraps' Revolt impact Artaxerxes II's rule?

The Great Satraps' Revolt, beginning around 372 BC, saw several western satrapies rebel against Artaxerxes II, partly inspired by the failure of the Egypt campaign. The revolt was eventually suppressed by 362 BC, but it highlighted the challenges Artaxerxes faced in maintaining control over the vast empire.

What was Artaxerxes II's role in mediating Greek conflicts in the 360s BC?

Artaxerxes II attempted to mediate disputes between Greek city-states, particularly during the Theban–Spartan War. He sent envoys, such as Philiscus of Abydos, to facilitate peace negotiations, though these efforts sometimes shifted Persian alliances and were complex.

What were some of Artaxerxes II's notable building projects?

Artaxerxes II invested significantly in construction. He restored the Palace of Darius I at Susa and also undertook projects in Ecbatana, including the construction of a new apadana and sculptures.

Where is the tomb of Artaxerxes II located, and what are its notable features?

The tomb of Artaxerxes II is situated in Persepolis. It follows the architectural style of his predecessors and features reliefs depicting the emperor supported by soldiers representing the diverse ethnicities of his empire, accompanied by trilingual inscriptions.

How did Artaxerxes II's religious policies differ from those of his predecessors?

Artaxerxes II was the first Achaemenid king known to explicitly invoke deities other than Ahura Mazda in his inscriptions. He promoted the worship of Anahita and Mithra alongside Ahura Mazda, and actively supported the cult of Anahita by erecting temples and statues across the empire.

What was the significance of the goddess Anahita during Artaxerxes II's reign?

Artaxerxes II elevated the status of Anahita, the divinity associated with "the Waters," fertility, healing, and wisdom. He promoted her worship by building temples dedicated to her in major cities like Ecbatana, Susa, and Babylon, and likely founded the temple of Anahita in Istakhr.

What is considered a key aspect of Artaxerxes II's legacy regarding imperial stability?

A significant aspect of Artaxerxes II's legacy is how the power vacuum created by his brother Cyrus the Younger's rebellion contributed to subsequent instability, such as the Great Satraps' Revolt and the rebellion in Egypt. His long reign also saw the restoration of imperial monuments.

How did contemporary foreign sources, particularly Greek ones, portray Artaxerxes II?

Foreign sources, especially Greek ones, often depicted Artaxerxes II in a less favorable light, highlighting his long but conflict-ridden reign and perceived shortcomings in controlling the empire. Some accounts portrayed him as a sad ruler, focusing on court intrigues involving his harem and eunuchs.

What is the proposed connection between Artaxerxes II and the figure in the Book of Esther?

It has been suggested by some scholars that Artaxerxes II might be the biblical figure Ahasuerus mentioned in the Book of Esther, based on linguistic and contextual evidence from various historical sources.

What was the original name of Artaxerxes II before he became king?

Before ascending to the throne, Artaxerxes II was known by his birth name, Arses. He adopted the regnal name Artaxerxes upon his investiture as king.

What does the Greek epithet "Mnemon" signify for Artaxerxes II?

The Greek epithet "Mnemon" given to Artaxerxes II means "remembering" or "having a good memory." This epithet likely reflects a perceived characteristic or reputation of the king.

What was the role of Parysatis in the early reign of Artaxerxes II?

Parysatis, the mother of Artaxerxes II and Cyrus the Younger, played a significant role. She favored Cyrus and reportedly attempted to influence the succession, and later intervened in the events following Cyrus's rebellion. She is also known for poisoning Artaxerxes II's wife, Stateira.

What was the significance of Cyrus the Younger's appointment as satrap?

Before his revolt, Cyrus the Younger was appointed satrap of Lydia, Greater Phrygia, and Cappadocia in 408 BC. He was also given the title *karanos*, significantly expanding his authority and autonomy, which laid the groundwork for his later challenge to the throne.

How did Artaxerxes II's relationship with Athens and Thebes evolve during the Corinthian War?

Initially, Artaxerxes II subsidized Athens and Thebes to fight Sparta. However, as Athens regained influence, Artaxerxes became concerned about their growing power, leading him to betray his allies and arrange the Treaty of Antalcidas with Sparta.

What was the impact of the Achaemenid defeat in Egypt on the empire's stability?

The unsuccessful campaign in Egypt in 373 BC contributed to unrest among the Achaemenid nobility, triggering the Great Satraps' Revolt. This period demonstrated the fragility of central authority and the potential for regional powers to challenge the Great King.

What was the purpose of Philiscus of Abydos's mission to Delphi during the Theban–Spartan War?

Philiscus of Abydos was sent by Artaxerxes II to Delphi to help mediate a Common Peace between the warring Greek city-states. His mission aimed to foster reconciliation, although it ultimately failed due to disagreements, particularly from Thebes.

What is the meaning of the Old Persian name Artaxšaça, from which Artaxerxes derives?

The Old Persian name Artaxšaça, which translates to Artaxerxes in Greek, means "whose reign is through truth." This name reflects the importance of truth and righteousness in the Achaemenid worldview.

What role did the Achaemenid coinage, specifically the daric, play in Artaxerxes II's foreign policy?

Artaxerxes II utilized large sums of 'darics,' the primary currency in Achaemenid coinage, to bribe Greek city-states like Athens, Thebes, and Corinth to fight against Sparta. This demonstrates the use of financial diplomacy in his foreign policy.

What evidence suggests Artaxerxes II's connection to the Arsacid dynasty?

The name 'Arsaces,' a hypocorism for Artaxerxes II, is the origin of the name for the Arsacid dynasty. This dynasty, which later ruled the Parthian Empire, claimed descent from Artaxerxes II himself.

How did Artaxerxes II's reign compare to those of his immediate predecessors and successors in terms of length?

Artaxerxes II reigned for a notably long period, from 405/4 to 359/8 BC, spanning approximately 45 to 46 years. This was a significantly longer reign compared to his predecessor Darius II and his successor Artaxerxes III.

What was the nature of the relationship between Artaxerxes II and the Parthian Empire's rulers?

The rulers of the Parthian Empire considered Artaxerxes II to be their progenitor, indicating a significant historical and perhaps legendary connection between the Achaemenid king and the later Parthian dynasty.

What specific inscription mentions Artaxerxes II invoking Anahita and Mithra?

Artaxerxes II invoked the deities Anahita and Mithra alongside Ahura Mazda in a trilingual inscription found at Susa. This inscription is significant for being one of the first Achaemenid records to explicitly name these deities.

What was the fate of Stateira, the wife of Artaxerxes II?

Stateira, the principal wife of Artaxerxes II, was poisoned around 400 BC. The poisoning was carried out by Artaxerxes II's own mother, Parysatis.

What historical event is described in Xenophon's *Anabasis* in relation to Artaxerxes II's reign?

Xenophon's *Anabasis* describes the experiences of the Ten Thousand, a large contingent of Greek mercenaries who fought for Cyrus the Younger against Artaxerxes II. After Cyrus's death at the Battle of Cunaxa, the *Anabasis* details their arduous journey back home through hostile territory.

What was the outcome of Artaxerxes II's campaign against the Cadusians in 385 BC?

In 385 BC, Artaxerxes II personally led a campaign against the Cadusians. While the text mentions the campaign, it does not specify its outcome.

How did the Persian Empire under Artaxerxes II interact with Sparta after 387 BC?

Following the Treaty of Antalcidas in 387 BC, Artaxerxes II's empire maintained a dominant position in its dealings with Sparta. The treaty secured Persian influence over the Greek cities of Ionia and Aeolis and confirmed Spartan hegemony on the mainland, demonstrating Persia's ability to influence Greek affairs.

What was the political situation in Egypt during Artaxerxes II's reign?

Egypt had successfully revolted against Achaemenid rule at the beginning of Artaxerxes II's reign. Although a major Persian attempt to reconquer Egypt in 373 BC failed, the Persians later managed to thwart a joint Egyptian-Spartan effort to conquer Phoenicia.

What evidence supports the chronological sequence of High Priest Johanan during the reigns of Darius II and Artaxerxes II?

The Elephantine papyri, dated to 407 BC (during Darius II's reign), mention the high priest Johanan. His mention in Ezra 6:10, following the reign of Darius and during the rule of Artaxerxes, supports the chronological order of these rulers and events.

What was the nature of the Achaemenid royal inscriptions during Artaxerxes II's time regarding deities?

Starting with Darius the Great, Achaemenid inscriptions began mentioning unnamed gods alongside Ahura Mazda. Artaxerxes II was the first to explicitly name these deities in inscriptions, specifically invoking Anahita and Mithra, indicating a shift in religious expression.

What was the estimated age of Artaxerxes II at his death?

Estimates for Artaxerxes II's age at death vary, with some sources suggesting he was 86 or 94 years old. This would place his birth around 453 or 445 BC, though other sources indicate he was born before his father's accession in 424 BC.

What is the meaning of the Old Persian term 'Artaxšaça'?

The Old Persian term 'Artaxšaça,' from which the name Artaxerxes originates, translates to 'whose reign is through truth.' This reflects a core value within the Achaemenid Empire's ideology.

What was the primary source of information for Plutarch's *Life of Artaxerxes II*?

Plutarch utilized several sources for his biography of Artaxerxes II, including the works of Ctesias, Dinon, Xenophon, and others. These sources provided the basis for his account of the Achaemenid king's life and reign.

What specific inscription at Susa mentions Artaxerxes II invoking multiple deities?

Artaxerxes II invoked the deities Anahita and Mithra alongside Ahura Mazda in a trilingual inscription at Susa. This inscription is notable for being one of the earliest Achaemenid records to explicitly name these deities.

What was the significance of the 'King's Peace' promulgated in 387 BC?

The 'King's Peace,' also known as the Treaty of Antalcidas, was promulgated by Artaxerxes II in 387 BC. It effectively ended the Corinthian War by returning Ionian and Aeolian Greek cities to Persian control and affirming Spartan dominance on the Greek mainland, showcasing Persian influence over Greek affairs.

What was the estimated number of Artaxerxes II's children and wives?

Artaxerxes II was reported to have had a vast number of offspring, with estimates suggesting over 115 sons and 350 wives. This indicates a large royal household and extensive polygamy.

Which of Artaxerxes II's children succeeded him on the throne?

Artaxerxes II was succeeded by his son, Ochus, who then took the regnal name Artaxerxes III. Other notable children included Darius, Ariaspes, Rhodogune, Atossa, and Sisygambis.

What was the historical context for Cyrus the Younger's rebellion against Artaxerxes II?

Cyrus the Younger, Artaxerxes II's younger brother, launched a rebellion shortly after Artaxerxes II's accession. Cyrus assembled an army comprising troops from his satrapies in Lydia and Ionia, along with Greek mercenaries, aiming to seize the throne.

What does the image on the tomb of Artaxerxes II at Persepolis represent?

The tomb of Artaxerxes II at Persepolis features reliefs on its upper register that depict the emperor supported by soldiers representing the various ethnicities of the Achaemenid Empire. Each figure is accompanied by a trilingual inscription identifying their ethnicity.

Artaxerxes Ii Wiki: Artaxerxes II: The Great King's Reign Unveiled

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Overview

The Great King

Arsaces, known by his regnal name Artaxerxes II (Old Persian: Artaxšaçā, meaning "whose reign is through truth"), reigned as King of Kings of the Achaemenid Empire from 405/4 BC to 359/8 BC. He was the son and successor of Darius II and his mother was Parysatis.

A Lengthy Reign

Artaxerxes II's reign was one of the longest in Achaemenid history, spanning over 40 years. It was marked by significant challenges, including dynastic struggles, revolts, and wars with Greek city-states.

Imperial Authority

Despite facing numerous internal and external threats, Artaxerxes II maintained the vast Achaemenid Empire. His reign saw efforts to consolidate power and manage the diverse territories under Persian rule.

Dynastic Connections

Parentage and Succession

Artaxerxes II was the eldest son of Darius II and Parysatis. Parysatis, a half-sister of Darius II, favored her younger son Cyrus the Younger, leading to a significant dynastic conflict shortly after Artaxerxes II's accession.

Strategic Marriages

Before ascending the throne, Arsaces married Stateira, daughter of the nobleman Hydarnes. This marriage was part of a political alliance aimed at consolidating Darius II's rule. His mother, Parysatis, played a significant role in court politics, even influencing succession disputes.

Achaemenid Lineage

Artaxerxes II belonged to the prominent Achaemenid dynasty, which had established a vast empire stretching from Eastern Europe to the Indus Valley. His reign continued the traditions and administrative structures of his predecessors.

Major Conflicts & Rebellions

Cyrus the Younger's Revolt (401 BC)

Artaxerxes II's reign began with a major challenge from his younger brother, Cyrus the Younger. Cyrus amassed an army, including Greek mercenaries (the "Ten Thousand"), and marched against his brother. The decisive Battle of Cunaxa in 401 BC resulted in Cyrus's death, but the subsequent difficult journey of the Greek mercenaries back home was famously chronicled by Xenophon in his Anabasis.

Conflict with Sparta (396–387 BC)

Artaxerxes II intervened in Greek affairs, supporting Athens, Thebes, and Corinth against Sparta during the Corinthian War. He used significant financial subsidies (darics) to bribe Greek states. This diplomacy led to the Peace of Antalcidas in 387 BC, which restored Persian control over Ionian cities and confirmed Spartan hegemony in Greece.

Egyptian Campaign (373 BC)

An attempt to reconquer Egypt, which had revolted early in his reign, ended in failure. A large Achaemenid expedition led by Pharnabazus II and supported by Greek mercenaries under Iphicrates was thwarted by Egyptian defenses and internal disagreements among the commanders. The annual Nile flood also played a role in the Achaemenid defeat.

Revolt of the Satraps (372–362 BC)

Following the costly Egyptian campaign, several western satraps, including Datames and Ariobarzanes, rebelled against Artaxerxes II. The Pharaoh of Egypt supported these revolts. Artaxerxes II eventually managed to quell the rebellion by 362 BC, though it highlighted the internal instability within the empire.

Building and Patronage

Royal Construction

Artaxerxes II invested significantly in imperial infrastructure. He restored and enhanced palaces and fortifications, notably at Susa and Ecbatana. His contributions included a new apadana (audience hall) and sculptures in Ecbatana.

Tomb at Persepolis

His tomb, carved into the rock face at Persepolis, follows the architectural traditions of his predecessors. The tomb features reliefs depicting the king supported by soldiers representing the diverse ethnicities of the empire, accompanied by trilingual inscriptions detailing these groups.

Religious Policies

Worship of Anahita and Mithra

Artaxerxes II was the first Achaemenid king known to officially recognize and promote the worship of the deities Anahita (goddess of waters, fertility, and wisdom) and Mithra. He commissioned temples and statues dedicated to Anahita throughout the empire, including in major cities like Ecbatana, Susa, and Babylon.

Zoroastrian Influence

While Ahura Mazda remained the supreme deity in royal inscriptions, the elevation of Anahita and Mithra reflects a broadening of the state religion. This syncretic approach integrated prominent local deities into the imperial religious framework, reinforcing the king's authority.

Enduring Legacy

Imperial Stability

Despite numerous internal revolts and external conflicts, Artaxerxes II maintained the integrity of the Achaemenid Empire for over four decades. His long reign provided a period of relative stability, albeit one marked by constant management of regional challenges.

Historical Perception

Contemporary Greek sources often portrayed Artaxerxes II as a capable ruler but also highlighted his struggles with internal dissent and his reliance on diplomacy and financial influence. His reign is remembered for its length, the significant conflicts it encompassed, and his patronage of religious cults.

Ancestral Claim

The rulers of the later Parthian Empire notably considered Artaxerxes II their progenitor, linking their own dynasty to the legacy of the Achaemenids through his influential name and reign.

Historical Identity

Name and Epithets

His birth name was Arsaces. The Greek epithet "Mnemon" (meaning "remembering" or "having a good memory") was given to him, possibly reflecting his perceived ability to recall past events or maintain imperial records. His regnal name, Artaxerxes, signifies "rule through truth."

Biblical Connections

Historical analysis suggests Artaxerxes II may be the Ahasuerus mentioned in the Book of Esther. His reign aligns chronologically with the biblical narrative, and his name variations found in ancient sources support this identification.

Family and Issue

Marital Relations

Artaxerxes II had numerous wives and is reported to have fathered over 115 sons. His principal wife was Stateira, who was poisoned by his mother, Parysatis, around 400 BC. Other notable wives included Atossa and Sisygambis.

Royal Offspring

His children included Darius, Ariaspes, and Ochus (who succeeded him as Artaxerxes III). His daughters included Rhodogune, Atossa, and Sisygambis, several of whom entered into significant political marriages within the Persian nobility and royal family.

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References

Stephen Ruzicka, Trouble in the West: Egypt and the Persian Empire, 525â332 BC (Oxford University Press, 2012), p. 263, n. 16

Jan Jacob van Ginkel, John of Ephesus. A Monophysite Historian in Sixth-century Byzantium, Groningen, 1995

A full list of references for this article are available at the Artaxerxes II Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not historical advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical research or consultation. Always refer to primary sources and scholarly analyses for definitive historical understanding. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.

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Artaxerxes II: The Great King's Reign Unveiled

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

👑 The Great King

📜 A Lengthy Reign

🏛️ Imperial Authority

Dynastic Connections 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

lineage Parentage and Succession

🤝 Strategic Marriages

🏛️ Achaemenid Lineage

Major Conflicts & Rebellions ⚔️

⚔️ Cyrus the Younger's Revolt (401 BC)

🌍 Conflict with Sparta (396–387 BC)

🇪🇬 Egyptian Campaign (373 BC)

✊ Revolt of the Satraps (372–362 BC)

Building and Patronage 🏛️

🏗️ Royal Construction

🪦 Tomb at Persepolis

Religious Policies 🕊️

✨ Worship of Anahita and Mithra

🕉️ Zoroastrian Influence

Enduring Legacy 📈

⚖️ Imperial Stability

✍️ Historical Perception

🔗 Ancestral Claim

Historical Identity 👤

📖 Name and Epithets

📜 Biblical Connections

Family and Issue 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

💍 Marital Relations

👑 Royal Offspring

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

The Great King

A Lengthy Reign

Imperial Authority

Dynastic Connections

Parentage and Succession

Strategic Marriages

Achaemenid Lineage

Major Conflicts & Rebellions

Cyrus the Younger's Revolt (401 BC)

Conflict with Sparta (396–387 BC)

Egyptian Campaign (373 BC)

Revolt of the Satraps (372–362 BC)

Building and Patronage

Royal Construction

Tomb at Persepolis

Religious Policies

Worship of Anahita and Mithra

Zoroastrian Influence

Enduring Legacy

Imperial Stability

Historical Perception

Ancestral Claim

Historical Identity

Name and Epithets

Biblical Connections

Family and Issue

Marital Relations

Royal Offspring

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice