Alexander: The Man, The King, The Great

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             How does one define greatness with two contrasting ideals and philosophies on the subject? The answer presents itself when comparing the deeds of kings to paupers or soldiers to slaves. The king and soldier may influence the world on a much larger scale but that does not mean his deeds are greater then that of a pauper or slave. Take a soldier in Alexander III time in history who saves the life of four of his comrades in view of the king. He is lauded by the king, far and wide the tale is told of the soldier's valor and greatness. Compare that to a slave gathering water who happens upon six shepherds dying of thirst. He saves their lives by giving them his water and starts the long journey back to the well to gather more. There are no songs of his exploits, nothing written on his deed. Is this man's deed great? Yes, the slaves greatness was not of the traditional heroic sense, nor his physical strength or his brilliant mind, but of the human characteristic of devotion to a fellow man. Athenaeus said, "Goodness does not consist in greatness, but greatness in goodness. Is the soldier's greatness more then that of the Slave? No, both used the tools of greatness available to them, the soldier used physical strength and fighting skills, while the slave used compassion and a conscience. The only difference between the two deeds is the soldier was in position, both in his time in history, and in the battle, for his greatness to be recognized. Therefore greatness is not just the deeds and accomplishments of known men but also the strength of a man's character, and his treatment of those around him.
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             Leadership is a quality of greatness. To be able to guide others in need is a gift few are endowed with. Alexander III greatness is shown in his leadership and treatment of his men on the battlefield. .
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             Alexander III was unique in the way he approached his army. A majority of kings at the battle field lived and slept segregated from the army in comfort and luxury, Alexander was the opposite.