The Rest Is History 116. Alexander the Great Part 1
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Nov 8, 2021 Dive into the captivating life of Alexander the Great, where charisma meets controversy! Discover his early years under the mentorship of Aristotle and the childhood challenges he faced. Explore the political drama of his aspirations to unite Greece against Persia. Marvel at his military prowess through daring battles and strategic brilliance. The conversation mixes humor with profound insights as they compare Alexander’s legacy to modern themes, leaving you to ponder: was he a man or a god?
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Parlor Game Defeat
- Tom Holland lost a parlor game arguing for Alexander the Great's eminence.
- Bethany Hughes chose Helen of Troy, and they tied for last place.
Mythical History
- Alexander the Great's story is almost mythical due to patchy sources and late accounts.
- The earliest narrative account appears 300 years after his life, influencing the story's perception.
Alexander's Persian Identity
- Scholars now understand Alexander as a creative politician, not just a hero or monster.
- Pierre Briand's description of Alexander as the "last of the Achaemenids" highlights his Persian influence.