Alexander Essay

B-H Nelson

World Studies Period 1-2

November 16th 2009

Alexander Hero Essay

Why was Alexander the great, so great? Many people may have asked this question themselves. Surprisingly to some, the answer to that question is that there are no logical reasons at all. Alexander was the king of Macedon from 336BCE to 323BCE. He is known for his military strategy and being a fierce general. Although, Alexander "the great" was not a hero because he had hubris, followed his blind ambitions, and committed reckless, unjustified acts.

Clearly, Alexander showed hubris throughout his life. He believed he was a descendant of gods, and showed his hubris on the battlefield. Even when Alexander would talk to his companions, he talked with power like he was better than everyone else. He also believed he was above the rules of society and ignored many Greek/Macedonian values on his conquest of Persia. Alexander changed as a person on his journey to the end of the known world. He made his men push on when they wanted to go home, so he could claim the glory for himself. He believed that he earned and deserved the glory and was destined to conquer most of the known world.

Surely, Alexander had some positive traits, but one of his many negative traits was that he followed his blind, burning ambitions for power through his conquest, he continued on no matter what the cost. As a general he almost died when he charged into Persian forces with his cavalry. Luckily, his other general and companion Cleitus was there to have his back and saved

his life after the idiotic charge. Also his father, Phillip the 2nd said that his anger