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Dan Carlin's Hardcore History: Addendum
EP9 Glimpses of Olympias
Jan 30, 2020
03:31:58
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Quick takeaways
- Olympias played a crucial role in Alexander's upbringing, using her influence and authority through her connection to him.
- The conflicts within the Macedonian royal family were influenced by political ambitions, perceived insults to lineage, and the struggle for power and control.
- Philip II strategically united different families and states under his leadership to form a powerful coalition for the invasion of Persia.
- The assassination of Philip II and Olympias' involvement set in motion a chain of events that shaped the course of history, with Alexander becoming the new king and continuing his father's plans for the invasion.
- Olympias wielded political power and acted as a diplomat, engaging in personal relationships and unofficial negotiations to protect her interests and shape Alexander's reign.
- Alexander the Great's mental instability, paranoia, and decline in physical well-being contributed to his rule and led to the execution and purge of perceived threats.
Deep dives
Olympias, a Formidable Woman in History
Olympias, the wife of Philip II of Macedonia and mother of Alexander the Great, was known for her forceful and eccentric personality. She was deeply devoted to the orgiastic rites of Dionysus and kept large tame snakes as pets. She claimed that Alexander's father was not Philip, but Zeus himself, adding to her influence and authority. Olympias played a crucial role in Alexander's upbringing, as Philip was often away on military campaigns. Her power base revolved around her connection to Alexander, as she hailed from a different lineage than the Macedonians. However, her fierce personality and political ambitions created tensions within the family, leading to strained relations and conflicts.
Conflict and Friction within the Macedonian Royal Family
Tensions within the Macedonian royal family escalated during a drinking party where Alexander confronted Atalas, an important Macedonian general and relative of Cleopatra, Philip's new wife. Philip's aggressive response and his physical condition due to numerous wounds further strained the relationship with Alexander and Olympias. Cleopatra's marriage to Atalas compounded the complex and volatile dynamics within the family. These conflicts were influenced by political ambitions, perceived insults to lineage, and the struggle for power and control in the kingdom.
Philip II's Strategies and the Path to Conquering Persia
Meanwhile, Philip II was solidifying his power and expanding his influence as he planned a grand campaign against Persia. He established a league of Greek states and aimed to secure a bridgehead in Asia. Philip strategically united different families and states under his leadership, forming a powerful coalition for the planned invasion. This period marked the height of Philip's rule and saw him advance Macedonia's economy, military, and culture, transforming it into a centralized state. However, as tensions grew within the family, Philip sought to maintain diplomatic stability through political marriages and alliances.
The Assassination of Philip II
Philip II, the king of Macedonia, is about to embark on a historic mission to invade the Persian Empire when he is assassinated in a highly choreographed event. The assassination takes place during a wedding ceremony and is carried out by a man named Pausanias, who had a personal grievance against Philip. The motives for the assassination are debated, with theories ranging from personal vendettas to political conspiracies involving rival factions. The murder of Philip sets in motion a chain of events that will shape the course of history, as his son Alexander is acclaimed as the new king and continues his father's plans for the invasion of Persia.
Olympias' Involvement and Influence
Olympias, the mother of Alexander the Great, plays a significant role in the aftermath of Philip's assassination. She is suspected of having a hand in the murder, although historians debate her level of involvement. Olympias wields political power and acts as a diplomat, engaging in personal relationships and unofficial negotiations with other leaders. She is known for her cunning and calculated nature, always working in her own and her son's best interests. Olympias' influence and involvement in Alexander's rule contribute to the shaping of his character and decisions as he navigates the challenges of his reign.
Alexander's Paranoia and Mental Instability
As Alexander the Great becomes the ruler of Macedonia and embarks on his conquest of Asia, he begins to exhibit signs of paranoia and mental instability. He questions his own identity and parentage, seeking answers from oracles and legends about his divine origins. Alexander's mental state is also affected by his physical well-being, with injuries and possible alcohol abuse adding to his decline. His suspicions and distrust grow, leading him to execute and purge those he perceives as threats, including his former close allies and generals. This instability and paranoia shape his rule and contribute to the challenges he faces as a conqueror.
Power Struggles and Rivalries Among Alexander's Successors
The podcast delves into the power struggles and rivalries that emerged among the successors of Alexander the Great after his death. These successors, who were his generals and marshals, fought over control of his vast empire, leading to a series of conflicts known as the Wars of the Diadochi. The podcast highlights the complex dynamics and personal connections between these leaders, including marriages and alliances, as they vied for power and legitimacy.
Olympias and her Role in the Successor Wars
Olympias, the mother of Alexander the Great, plays a significant role in the successor wars. She navigates the treacherous political landscape, seeking to protect her interests and her grandson, Alexander IV. The podcast explores her attempts to gain alliances and position herself favorably within the power dynamics, including her meddling in marriages and inciting soldiers. Despite facing opposition, including from Antipater, she proves to be a resilient and influential figure in the turbulent times.
Antipater's Rise and the Death of Cassandra
Antipater, one of the successors of Alexander, rises to prominence and becomes a major player in the successor wars. He takes control after the death of Perdiccas and holds the position of regent. However, his reign is short-lived as he dies shortly after returning to Macedonia. His son, Cassandra, who expected to inherit his power, becomes infuriated and starts the second round of successor wars in his quest for power and authority.
The Battle of the Female Champions
In 317 BCE, Olympias and Adea Eurydice clashed in a battle that was dubbed the 'first war between women'. Olympias, dressed as a follower of Dionysus, exuded her power and ability to conjure the dead, intimidating Adea Eurydice's troops, who refused to fight against the mother and wife of Alexander the Great. Ultimately, Olympias triumphed, capturing Adea Eurydice and Philip Aradeus. However, the magic surrounding her didn't last long, as Cassandra, another successor to Alexander's empire, soon targeted and executed Olympias, securing his position as the sole power in Macedonia.
The Legacy and Demise of Alexander's Family
The lineage of Alexander the Great faced a tragic end, with his close relatives falling victim to power struggles and revenge among successor generals. Olympias' death marked the loss of Alexander's most powerful defender, leaving Cassandra to target and execute Alexander's son, wife, and mother. Despite the magic and grandeur associated with Alexander's family, their fate exemplifies the ruthless nature of the time. Lastly, Cleopatra, Alexander's sister, narrowly escaped death but lived out her final years under house arrest, ensuring she would never destabilize the strategic landscape.
6.
The Greatest Assembly of Generals and Marshals and Over the Top Military Figures
3min
Description:Philip II of Macedonia and his son Alexander the Great are two of the most impressive figures in history. Few could contend with either man. One woman held her own with both of them. Alexander's mother Olympias. Notes:
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