Was Alexander the Great Unpopular Among Greeks? Debunking the Myths

Whenever discussions arise about the historical figure Alexander the Great, various legends and myths emerge. One of these persistent narratives is that some Greeks were particularly enmired towards him and even fought on the side of the Persians. Let’s delve into the facts and uncover the truth behind this fascinating historical period.

Division Among the Ancient Greeks

It is important to understand that the ancient Greeks were not a homogeneous group. Divisions existed on several fronts, including political allegiance, social classes, and even personal grudges. The general relationship between the ancient Greeks and Alexander the Great was not a monolith; it varied greatly depending on the individual and their circumstances.

Thebes: A Case of Enmity

One of the most common points of hostility towards Alexander the Great was the city-state of Thebes. Thebes fell in 335 BC to the Macedonian army, which then proceeded to sack and burn the city in retribution for its betrayal during the Lamian War. This act of aggression undoubtedly soured the relationship between Theban citizens and Alexander. Many Thebans, who had opposed Alexander, were likely among those who joined the Persians in their battles against him.

Unite Against Alexander: The Persians and Greek Mercenaries

Yes, some Greeks did indeed join the Persians against Alexander the Great. However, such Greeks were predominantly mercenary soldiers employed by the Persian empire. These mercenaries, or hoplites, were not true allies of Greece in the strict sense. They were often motivated by monetary gain, making them more akin to contractors rather than comrades-in-arms.

During key Persian-Greek conflicts, like the Battle of Granicus, the Battle of Issus, and the Battle of Gaugamela, there were instances of Greek mercenaries fighting on the Persian side. It is crucial to note, however, that these were individuals who had defected or were hired by Darius III for monetary reasons, which meant they were not necessarily representing their fellow Greeks.

Trials and Tribulations of Captured Warriors

After the Battle of Granicus, Alexander took steps to manage his captured Greek soldiers, allowing some of them to return home. However, the fate of the captured Greek warriors at the Battle of Issus was not so favorable. The Greek POWs faced severe treatment. They were given the choice to enlist in the Persian army and fight on, or they could become slaves. The harsh conditions and the forced allegiance to Persia created deep resentment among the Greek POWs and their families.

Myth vs. Fact: Alexander the Great and Greek Loyalties

It is often claimed that more than 50,000 Greeks fought on the side of the Persians against Alexander. However, this claim is largely exaggerated and misunderstands the complexity of the situation. The actual number of Greek mercenaries and defectors was likely much smaller, and their motivations varied widely.

These accounts often lack context and often ignore the political and strategic reasons why many of these Greeks chose to fight for Persia. Often, these individuals were seeking to regain their status or to escape the harsh conditions of imprisonment.

Conclusion: The Era of Alexander the Great

Alexander the Great’s legacy remains contentious, but it is clear that the relationship between him and the Greeks was far from being one-dimensional. While some ancient Greek cities and individuals were resistant to his rule, others supported him, recognizing his vision and strategic genius.

The complex history of this era is a testament to the intricate motivations and allegiances that shaped the ancient world. Understanding the nuances and complexities of the period is essential to truly comprehend the impact of Alexander the Great on both Greek and Persian history.