[History] The Fiery Temper of Alexander the Great: A Tragic Night of Rage

The Fiery Temper of Alexander the Great: A Tragic Night of Rage

Alexander the Great is often remembered as one of history’s greatest military geniuses, a young king who conquered vast lands from Greece to India before the age of 33. Yet behind the strategic brilliance was a man known for his fiery temper — a trait that led to one of the most tragic incidents of his reign.

In the midst of his triumphant campaign, Alexander reached Samarkand and decided to honor one of his most loyal generals, Cleitus the Black, with a grand feast. Cleitus had been a hero of many battles, even saving Alexander’s life at the Battle of the Granicus. That night, Alexander announced his intention to appoint Cleitus as governor of Bactria — a high honor.

But as the wine flowed and the celebration grew louder, Alexander began criticizing his late father, King Philip II. “He married a woman much younger than himself,” Alexander mocked, hinting at past tensions. Cleitus, fiercely loyal to the old king, couldn’t stay silent. “It was thanks to your father’s victories that you inherited this empire!” he declared.

Already harboring unresolved feelings toward his father, Alexander’s anger flared. “You old men should be grateful I’ve carried the empire forward!” he snapped. Cleitus, insulted by his young king’s arrogance, shot back: “And who saved your life at Granicus? Without me, you wouldn’t even be alive today!”

The room fell silent. Alexander’s face turned red with rage. In a fit of fury, he hurled an apple at Cleitus — who dodged it with the reflexes of a seasoned warrior. But Cleitus, too, was overcome with anger. He stormed out of the hall, only to return moments later and shout: “Alexander, your father was a better man than you!”

That final insult shattered Alexander’s restraint. Grabbing a nearby javelin, the warrior-king hurled it with deadly precision. The weapon struck Cleitus straight in the chest, killing him instantly.

Silence engulfed the hall. Alexander stood frozen, staring at the fallen man who had once saved his life.

For three days, Alexander locked himself in his chambers, refusing food and drink. The weight of his actions — killing a friend, a hero, a father figure — consumed him with guilt. His generals feared for his sanity and the stability of the empire.

In an attempt to justify the tragedy, Alexander’s court convened a military tribunal, posthumously charging Cleitus with treason. It was less about justice, and more a way to soothe their broken king.