Book excerpt: In a brilliant collection of biographies and essays, Daughters of the Eternal City celebrates the enduring impact women had on the political, social, and cultural fabric of Ancient Rome. Traditionally, the history of the Roman Empire has been shaped by the accounts and research of men. This unique volume sheds a light on the often-overlooked female figures of the period, exploring the complexities of the female experience and revealing their influence in a world often defined by patriarchal structures. Collected from classic sources, it features accounts of queens, noblewomen, and matriarchs, bringing their voices to the forefront. Daughters of the Eternal City celebrates the lasting ways in which women contributed to the legacy of the Roman Empire, redefining our understanding of the ancient world in a modern age.