Tarquin is a name associated with several figures in ancient Roman history, most notably Tarquin the Proud, the last king of Rome. He ruled from 535 to 509 BCE and is often remembered for his tyrannical reign, which led to the establishment of the Roman Republic. His rule ended when he was overthrown, marking a significant transition in Roman governance. The name Tarquin also appears in literature, particularly in Shakespeare's play "The Rape of Lucrece," where it refers to the character Tarquin, who embodies themes of lust and tyranny. This portrayal has influenced various artistic interpretations of the story throughout history.