Alexander's Youth
Early Life
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Born in 356 BC, Alexander was the son of King Philip II and Queen Olympias.
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He was raised in the Macedonian capital of Pella.
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His education was no less than royal, having had great philosophers as tutors such as Aristotle.
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Aristotle inspired love for literature, science and medicine in Alexander.
Personal Traits
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Alexander was noted for his exceptional physical courage and endurance.
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From a young age, he demonstrated keen intelligence, competitiveness, and ambition.
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It was said that he had a fiery temper and a brutal streak, traits inherited from his parents.
Training and Education
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Alexander was tutored by Lanike, his nurse, before being tutored by the philosopher Leonidas.
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When he was 13, Aristotle was appointed as his tutor. Alexander studied variety of subjects including politics, philosophy, arts, and medicine under him.
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He had a deep love for Homer's Iliad, which was gifted by Aristotle and it accompanied him during his campaigns.
Early Career
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Alexander's impressive thinking and courageous spirit was visible from his early age. He tamed a wild horse named Bucephalus at a tender age of 12 which others failed to do.
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He had early exposure to military life as a child, often observing military campaigns led by his father.
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At 16, he was left in charge of Macedonia as regent whilst his father waged a military campaign. This gave him an early taste of leadership.
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He proved his military skills by suppressing a Thracian rebellion during his time as regent.
Relationship with Parents
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Alexander was closer to his mother, Olympias, who instilled in him a sense of his destiny as a great leader.
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Alexander and his father had a complex relationship. While Philip II recognized his son’s potential, their relationship deteriorated due to Philip's multiple marriages and the political issues associated with them.
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After the assassination of his father in 336 BC, Alexander accused rivals and even his stepmother of conspiring in the murder, which paved his way to ascend to the throne.