Big Ideas Alexander the Great — A genius? A tyrant? A visionary? A killer? A maniac?
Oct 27, 2025
Stephen Harrison, a Lecturer in Ancient History and author, dives deep into the intriguing complexities of Alexander the Great's life. They discuss the various conflicting portrayals of Alexander, examining tensions with his father, Philip II, and the historical motives behind significant events, like the burning of Persepolis. Harrison highlights the importance of local politics in Alexander's campaigns and reflects on his wide cultural legacy, challenging romanticized narratives with a fresh perspective on the man behind the legend.
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Polarised Interpretations Reflect Commentators
- Debate about Alexander is intensely polarized because the same evidence produces opposite portraits.
- Studying him reveals more about later commentators than about Alexander himself.
The Exiled-Prince Story Is Probably Fiction
- Plutarch's dramatic tale of Alexander throwing a cup and exiling himself is entertaining but likely false.
- Stephen Harrison warns our sources are late and often fictionalised, complicating reconstruction.
Evidence For Alexander Is Scarce
- Only five main ancient literary sources survive and the earliest is centuries later.
- Very little archaeological evidence exists, making certainty about Alexander limited.
