ATROPOS, ATTROPOS. Atropos was the last and most important of the Three Fates, daughters of Night. Clotho spun the thread of life and was responsible for birth; Lachesis drew out the thread and apportioned the length of life; Atropos cut the thread and decided the time of death (Hesiod, Theogony 217-222; Isidore, Etym VIII.11.93).
Troilus calls on Atropos to prepare his bier, Tr IV.1205-1211, when he learns that Criseyde is to be exchanged for Antenor. Criseyde asks Atropos to break in pieces her thread of life if she is false to Troilus, Tr IV.1545-1546. [Lachesis: Parcas]