Gonatas

Gonatas is best known as the epithet of Antigonus II Gonatas, a Hellenistic king of Macedon who ruled in the late 3rd century BCE. The name Gonatas appears in classical sources as part of his regnal title, distinguishing him from other rulers named Antigonus.

Antigonus II Gonatas held the throne of Macedon from approximately 277 BCE to 239 BCE. He came to power in the aftermath of the Wars of the Diadochi and established the Antigonid dynasty’s long-standing presence in Greece. His reign is typically described as a period of consolidation of royal authority, military strengthening, and efforts to preserve Macedonian influence in the region.

During his rule, Gonatas faced opposition from various Greek leagues and city-states, including the Aetolian League, and he pursued a combination of diplomacy and military action to maintain Macedonian interests. His governance helped stabilize Macedon’s position in Greece and contributed to a framework in which the kingdom could project power while managing relations with neighboring powers.

The king died around 239 BCE and was succeeded by his son Demetrius II Aetolicus. His tenure is often viewed as laying the groundwork for the durability of the Antigonid dynasty’s rule in Macedon and in Greek affairs for several decades thereafter.

In modern references, Gonatas is most often encountered as part of Antigonus II Gonatas’ name; the name also appears as a surname in Greece and in discussions of Hellenistic monarchy.