Barsine

Barsine, born in three hundred sixty-three BC, was a notable figure of her time, hailing from a distinguished lineage. She was the daughter of Artabazus, a Persian satrap of Hellespontine Phrygia, and a Greek Rhodian mother, who was the sister of the renowned mercenaries Mentor and Memnon of Rhodes. This rich heritage set the stage for her complex life.

In a twist of fate, Barsine became the wife of her uncle Mentor, and following his death, she married her second uncle, Memnon. Her life took a dramatic turn in three hundred thirty-four BC, coinciding with Alexander the Great's invasion of Asia. During this tumultuous period, Memnon sent Barsine and their children to King Darius III as hostages, a move intended to secure loyalty.

The following year, Barsine's fortunes changed when she was captured by Alexander after the betrayal of Damascus. It is said that she became the mother of Heracles, a child born approximately five years after her encounter with Alexander in three hundred thirty-three BC. Twelve years later, in three hundred twenty-three BC, Barsine's son-in-law Nearchus would advocate for Heracles' claim to the throne, highlighting the ongoing legacy of her connection to Alexander.

Heracles was raised in Pergamum under Barsine's care, but tragedy struck in three hundred nine BC when Polyperchon, influenced by Cassander, orchestrated his murder. Throughout history, Barsine has sometimes been confused with Stateira II, another wife of Alexander, who may have also been referred to as Barsine, adding to the intrigue surrounding her life.