Pothinus

Pothinus was a eunuch who served as a trusted advisor to Cleopatra VII of Egypt. He played a significant role in the political turmoil that engulfed Egypt during the late Ptolemaic period and the Roman civil wars. Initially, Pothinus was a tutor to the young Ptolemy XIII, Cleopatra's brother and co-ruler. After Cleopatra was exiled from Alexandria, Pothinus, along with Achillas, a commander of the Egyptian army, wielded considerable influence over Ptolemy XIII.

Pothinus was a key figure in the political machinations aimed at keeping Cleopatra from regaining power. When Julius Caesar arrived in Egypt in 48 BC, he became entangled in the dispute between Cleopatra and Ptolemy XIII. Pothinus advised Ptolemy XIII to oppose Caesar's intervention and actively supported the faction that sought to drive the Romans out of Alexandria. His strategic advice and influence over the young pharaoh were instrumental in the ensuing conflict, known as the Alexandrian War.

Ultimately, Pothinus's efforts to manipulate the situation in favor of Ptolemy XIII failed. Caesar, with Cleopatra's support, emerged victorious. Pothinus was eventually captured and executed by Caesar's forces in 47 BC, a move that helped to consolidate Cleopatra's position as the sole ruler of Egypt. His story highlights the complex political landscape and the intense power struggles within the Ptolemaic dynasty.