Alexander the Great - A Leader essays

Alexander the Great - A Leader essays Alexander "The Great" (356 - 323 B. C.) Alexander was born in 356 B.C. His father was, Philip, the King of Macedonia and his mother was Olympias, daughter of King Neoptolemus I of Epirus (Albania). Philip was very proud of his son Alexander, but they had a very stormy relationship. Philips multiple marriages took a toll on Alexander. Olympias was very jealous and spiteful towards Philip's "lesser" wives. Alexander had a half-sister named Cleopatra (not the famous Egyptian Queen) and a half-brother named Arrhidaeus. Arrhidaeus was brain-damaged, it was rumored that Olympias had given the boy drugs in vengeance and fear for Alexander's inheritance. Philip made sure that Alexander was well educated. He sent for Aristotle to be one of his tutors. Alexander became friends with a boy named Hephaestion, they would remain loyal to each other for life. h He had a thirst for knowledge Philip often left Alexander in charge when he was taken away from Macedonia on business. At the age of sixteen, during one of his father's absences, Alexander led an army to subdue the rebellious "barbarians" (Maedi). He managed to move the Maedi out and renamed the city Alexandropolis, after himself. After this, he became the general of his father's army. During the celebrations for Philip's marriage to his final wife, a falling out occurred between Alexander and his father. The bride's uncle toasted the couple, saying that he hoped that a legitimate heir to the throne would result from the marriage. Alexander became enraged shouting "What about me? Am I a bastard?" and threw a goblet at the uncle. Philip, who was intoxicated, drew his sword and lunged at Alexander. He lost his balance and fell on the floor. ...