Alexander the Great is one of the most famous conquerors in history, known for his military prowess and strategic mind. But did you know that he was also a student of philosophy?
Many people believe that Alexander was tutored by the great Greek philosopher Socrates, but is this really true? In this article, we’ll explore the truth behind Alexander’s education and uncover the identity of his true mentor.
Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of ancient Greek education and discover the secrets of Alexander’s success.
Was Alexander The Great Tutored By The Greek Philosopher Socrates
Contrary to popular belief, Alexander the Great was not tutored by the Greek philosopher Socrates. Instead, he was educated by another famous philosopher of the time, whose teachings had a profound impact on Alexander’s life and career.
Alexander was born in the Greek kingdom of Macedon and was raised in the manner of noble Macedonian youths. He learned to read, play musical instruments, ride horses, fight, and hunt. As he grew older, his father King Philip II of Macedon began to search for a tutor who could provide Alexander with a more formal education.
After considering several academics, including Isocrates and Speusippus, Philip ultimately chose a different philosopher to tutor his son – one who would become one of the most influential figures in Alexander’s life.
This philosopher was none other than Aristotle, a renowned Greek philosopher who taught Alexander about medicine, philosophy, morals, religion, logic, and art. Under Aristotle’s tutelage, Alexander developed a passion for the works of Homer and even carried an annotated copy of Homer’s epic poems with him on his campaigns.
Aristotle also taught Alexander about government, politics, poetry, drama, and sciences. He wrote a short version of the Iliad that Alexander always kept with him as a source of inspiration.
The Education System In Ancient Greece
In ancient Greece, education was highly valued and considered essential for participation in Greek culture. However, access to education was determined by gender and class. Girls were excluded entirely from education in Athens, and only a small proportion of the population were entitled to vote or receive an education – land-owning male figures. Schools were neither publicly funded nor state-run, so parents themselves had to provide a place for education. This meant that school was restricted to an elite who could afford to pay for it. Even at the height of Greek civilization, it is estimated that only around a third of the population was literate.
Boys from wealthy backgrounds typically began schooling from the age of seven. They were taught how to read, write, and learned a lot of poetry by heart. In places such as Athens, laws were carved into stone slabs, so citizens had to be able to read to make sure they didn’t break the law. The schools in Ancient Greece were run by a triumvirate of schoolmasters – grammatistes, who taught writing and grammar, kitharistes, the music teachers, and paidotribes who handled the physical side of a child’s education.
Formal Greek education was primarily for males and non-slaves. In some poleis, laws were passed to prohibit the education of slaves. The Spartans also taught music and dance but with the purpose of enhancing their maneuverability as soldiers. Education was an essential component of a person’s identity in ancient Greece.
Alexander’s Early Life And Education
Alexander’s early life and education were heavily influenced by his father’s desire to provide him with the best possible education. At the age of 13, Alexander was sent to study under Aristotle, who was considered one of the greatest minds of his time.
Aristotle’s teachings had a profound impact on Alexander’s interests and pursuits. He was particularly interested in philosophy, medicine, and scientific investigation. Under Aristotle’s guidance, Alexander was exposed to a wide range of subjects, including ethics, politics, and metaphysics.
In addition to his academic studies, Alexander also received training in various physical activities such as horse riding, archery, and combat. He was known for his exploits on the battlefield even as a teenager.
Before Aristotle, Alexander was educated by his stern relative Leonidas of Epirus. Leonidas taught Alexander mathematics, horse riding, and archery. However, he struggled to handle the young prince’s rebellious nature.
After Leonidas, Lysimachus took over as Alexander’s tutor and tried to capture his attention through roleplay. Alexander enjoyed impersonating the warrior Achilles under Lysimachus’ tutelage.
Despite the influence of these earlier tutors, it was Aristotle who had the most significant impact on Alexander’s life. The philosopher’s teachings helped shape Alexander into the great leader and conqueror he would become.
The Myth Of Alexander And Socrates
Although Alexander the Great was not tutored by Socrates, there is a famous anecdote about their encounter that has become part of philosophical history. According to the story, Alexander visited the Greek philosopher Diogenes of Sinope in Corinth and asked if there was anything he could do for him. Diogenes famously replied, “Yes. Get out of my sunlight.” This encounter has been interpreted as evidence of Diogenes’ disregard for authority, wealth, and decorum.
The story of Alexander and Diogenes has been the subject of many literary and artistic works over the centuries, with many versions of the anecdote existing. Some versions do not name either one or both of the protagonists, and some even substitute Socrates for Diogenes. However, the historicity of the encounter has been questioned, as neither man’s date of death can be conclusively verified.
Regardless of its historical accuracy, the story of Alexander and Diogenes has endured as a symbol of the clash between power and philosophy. It highlights the tension between those who seek material wealth and those who prioritize intellectual pursuits. The story also showcases the bravery and intelligence of Diogenes, who was unafraid to insult his social superiors, including Plato and Alexander the Great himself.
The Real Mentor Behind Alexander’s Success
While Aristotle played a significant role in shaping Alexander’s intellectual and philosophical views, it was his father, King Philip II of Macedon, who served as the real mentor behind Alexander’s success. Philip was a skilled military leader who had conquered much of Greece and was determined to expand his empire further.
From a young age, Alexander was exposed to the art of warfare and the strategies of conquest through his father’s military campaigns. He accompanied Philip on several expeditions and witnessed firsthand the tactics used to defeat enemy armies.
As he grew older, Alexander began to develop his own military skills and leadership abilities. He studied the tactics of other great generals, including Cyrus the Great and Hannibal Barca, and incorporated their strategies into his own approach to warfare.
Under Philip’s guidance, Alexander also learned how to govern and manage an empire. He was appointed as regent of Macedon while his father was away on campaign, giving him practical experience in administration and leadership.
Philip’s influence on Alexander extended beyond matters of war and politics. He also instilled in his son a strong sense of discipline and determination. Alexander was known for his intense physical training regimen, which he maintained throughout his life.
In short, while Aristotle may have provided Alexander with a broad intellectual education, it was King Philip II who served as the real mentor behind Alexander’s success. Through his military campaigns, leadership skills, and personal example, Philip prepared his son for the challenges of ruling an empire and achieving greatness on the battlefield.
The Influence Of Philosophy On Alexander’s Military Strategy
Aristotle’s teachings had a profound impact on Alexander’s military strategy. Aristotle believed in the concept of the “golden mean,” which emphasized finding a balance between extremes. This idea influenced Alexander’s approach to warfare, as he sought to strike a balance between caution and boldness, and between his infantry and cavalry.
Aristotle also taught Alexander about the importance of adapting to changing circumstances. This lesson was put into practice during Alexander’s campaigns, where he often had to adjust his tactics to deal with unexpected challenges.
Furthermore, Aristotle’s ideas about leadership and ethics also played a role in shaping Alexander’s military strategy. Aristotle believed that a good leader must be virtuous, just, and wise, and that a leader’s primary goal should be to serve the common good. These principles guided Alexander in his treatment of his troops, as he sought to inspire loyalty and create a sense of unity among his soldiers.
Alexander’s Legacy In Philosophy And Education
Alexander’s education under Aristotle had a significant impact on his legacy in philosophy and education. Aristotle’s teachings helped shape Alexander’s worldview and approach to leadership, which in turn influenced the Hellenistic world.
One of the most significant legacies of Alexander’s education was the spread of Hellenistic culture and the Greek language. Greek became the universal language of government, commerce, education, science, literature, and even religion. This spread was facilitated by the gymnasium, which became the key institution for spreading Hellenistic culture. The gymnasiums also served as hubs for learning philosophy, music, poetry, and science.
Alexander’s education also influenced his approach to governance. He believed in a multicultural empire where different cultures could coexist peacefully. He encouraged the adoption of local customs and traditions in conquered territories while promoting Greek culture and ideals.
In terms of philosophy, Aristotle’s teachings on logic and reasoning had a lasting impact on Alexander. Alexander was known for his strategic thinking and ability to make quick decisions on the battlefield. He also valued education and intellectual pursuits, establishing libraries and schools throughout his empire.
Overall, Alexander’s education under Aristotle had a profound impact on his legacy in philosophy and education. His promotion of Hellenistic culture and multiculturalism helped shape the world we live in today.
