Alexander the Great and Aristotle
Most people have heard of Alexander the Great, the same can be said for Aristotle. But how many know of the role that Aristotle, one of the great philosophical minds in history, played in the life of Alexander, one of the greatest military leaders and conquerors in history?
Aristotle, one of the most influential figures in Western philosophy, was born in 384 BCE in the ancient Greek city of Stagira, located in the northern region of Macedonia. His father, Nicomachus, was the personal physician to King Amyntas III of Macedon, which likely afforded Aristotle access to a privileged education.
At the age of 17, Aristotle moved to Athens, the intellectual center of the ancient world, to study at Plato's Academy. He quickly distinguished himself as a brilliant student and became one of Plato's most trusted followers. However, Aristotle's philosophical views eventually diverged from those of his mentor, particularly on the nature of reality and the forms.
Aristotle
In 343 BCE, Aristotle received an invitation from King Philip II of Macedon to serve as the tutor to his son, the future Alexander the Great. For the next several years, Aristotle tutored Alexander, instilling in him a love of learning and providing him with a rigorous education in philosophy, rhetoric, and the natural sciences.
Alexander the Great's tutelage under Aristotle played a significant role in shaping his intellectual and philosophical outlook, as well as influencing his leadership style and decision-making throughout his life. Here's an expanded look at their relationship:
Intellectual Foundations
Aristotle provided Alexander with a comprehensive education in a wide range of subjects. Under Aristotle's guidance, Alexander studied philosophy, rhetoric, literature, natural sciences, and mathematics. This multidisciplinary education equipped Alexander with a deep understanding of various fields of knowledge, which proved invaluable in his later endeavours as a military leader and statesman.
Philosophical Influence
Alexander the Great
Aristotle's teachings had a profound impact on Alexander's philosophical outlook. His emphasis on logic, reason, and empirical observation instilled in Alexander a rational and analytical approach to problem-solving. This philosophical
orientation influenced Alexander's military strategies, diplomatic negotiations, and administrative policies, as he sought to apply principles of reason and logic in his decision-making processes.
Leadership Development
Beyond academic instruction, Aristotle also played a role in shaping Alexander's leadership style. Aristotle's teachings on ethics and politics provided Alexander with a framework for understanding the principles of justice, virtue, and governance. Alexander internalised these principles and sought to embody them in his conduct as a leader, striving to govern with wisdom, fairness, and benevolence.
Cultural Appreciation
Aristotle's influence extended beyond intellectual pursuits to include an appreciation for the diversity of cultures and civilizations. Aristotle encouraged Alexander to embrace the cultural richness of the lands he conquered, rather than imposing Greek customs and beliefs indiscriminately. This perspective fostered Alexander's policy of cultural synthesis, known as Hellenization, which sought to integrate Greek and Eastern cultures harmoniously within his empire.
Personal Relationship
Aristotle's mentorship went beyond mere instruction; he also served as a trusted advisor and confidant to Alexander. The bond between teacher and pupil was characterized by mutual respect and admiration. Although Aristotle remained in Athens while Alexander embarked on his conquests, their correspondence continued, with Aristotle offering counsel and guidance to his former pupil from afar.
There is little doubt that Alexander the Great's tutelage under Aristotle was a formative period that profoundly influenced his intellectual development, philosophical outlook, leadership style, and approach to governance. Aristotle's teachings provided Alexander with the intellectual tools and moral principles that guided him throughout his life, contributing to his enduring legacy as one of history's most influential figures.
In episode 1 of series 1, Kennardley talks to Alexander, who lets slip that he “had a pretty good coach in my early days, a bloke by the name of Aristotle.”