In 343 B.C., Aristotle, a famous Greek philosopher, was asked by King Philip II of Macedonia to be a tutor for his young son, Alexander the Great. Alexander was only 13 when he started getting an amazing education from Aristotle, one of the greatest thinkers in history.
Aristotle was born in Stagira and had studied under Plato in Athens for almost 20 years before teaching the young prince. As part of the deal, Philip II promised to rebuild Aristotle’s hometown of Stagira, which the Macedonians had taken, as payment for his tutoring.
The education of Alexander happened in a remote village called Mieza, inside the Temple of the Nymphs. It was here that Aristotle started teaching Alexander about philosophy, politics, and the sciences. This knowledge helped set the stage for Alexander’s future successes.
Key Takeaways
- Aristotle began tutoring Alexander the Great when the prince was just 13 years old
- King Philip II of Macedonia hired Aristotle and rebuilt his home city as payment
- Alexander’s education took place in Mieza, inside the Temple of the Nymphs
- Aristotle taught Alexander philosophy, politics, and the sciences
- This tutelage laid the foundation for Alexander’s future accomplishments
Aristotle’s Background and Teachings
Aristotle was a key figure in history, making big impacts on fields like logic, ethics, rhetoric, zoology, theater, and music. He was born in 384 B.C. in Stagira, Greece. His early life was influenced by his dad, who was the king’s doctor.
At 17, Aristotle went to Athens to study with Plato at the Academy. He stayed there until Plato passed away in 347 B.C.
Aristotle believed all knowledge comes from observing and experiencing the world. He created a detailed system of logic to understand our surroundings. His ethics works focused on finding happiness and virtue through balance and wisdom.
Aristotle was also fascinated by nature. His zoology and biology writings helped start modern science. He also studied rhetoric, the skill of convincing others through speech and writing. His work on theater and music showed how these arts affect us emotionally and aesthetically.
Aristotle taught many students, including Alexander the Great. He taught Alexander about medicine, poetry, astronomy, geometry, rhetoric, and more. Alexander’s love for zoology and botany came from Aristotle. This led Alexander to bring scientists with him on his conquests, collecting plants and animals for science.
Alexander’s Education Under Aristotle
Under Aristotle, Alexander’s education covered many subjects. These included Greek poetry, politics, and morality. He learned to respect Homer’s works and saw Achilles as a hero to follow.
Aristotle’s teachings deeply influenced Alexander. They shaped his views on politics and ethics. This education was key to his worldview.
Aristotle taught Alexander that slavery was normal in society. He saw all non-Greeks as barbarians. He told Alexander to be kind to Greeks but treat others like animals.
This view would shape how Alexander dealt with people during his campaigns. Aristotle’s ideas made Alexander see some people as less intelligent and driven by basic desires.
Alexander was inspired by Aristotle’s ideals of honor and self-control. He avoided overeating and didn’t indulge in excessive sex. Aristotle’s teachings gave Alexander a broad knowledge of Greek culture and philosophy.
They also shaped his character and leadership. This education prepared him for his future successes and lasting impact.
Aristotle Tutored Alexander: The Lasting Impact
Alexander studied with Aristotle for three years before leaving in 340 B.C. He was called by his father to take on important roles in Macedonia. Even though they were apart, Aristotle’s ideas stayed with Alexander throughout his rule. Alexander conquered many kingdoms from Asia Minor to India in just a dozen years after becoming king at 19.
Aristotle wanted to make Alexander a just leader. But Alexander became a dictator, driven by his ego and wealth. Some say Aristotle might have helped plan Alexander’s murder with poisoned wine, which happened before Alexander was 33. This is quite different from the communication hotline set up later between the U.S. and Soviet Union to avoid mistakes and nuclear war.
Despite learning about high moral values, Alexander ignored them to build an empire. This empire fell apart in civil wars after his death, leaving no lasting impact. Aristotle’s teachings were meant to make Alexander wise and just. But Alexander’s actions were more powerful, showing how even deep teachings can be forgotten by the desire for power and ambition.
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