1. The Enigma of Bucephalus
Among the many overlooked narratives in Alexander's life, the captivating story of his bond with the unruly stallion, Bucephalus, stands out. At a tender age of 10, Alexander defied norms by taming the majestic horse and forging a lifelong companionship. The tale of Bucephalus, a symbol of Alexander's resilience and determination, sheds light on his early prowess and remarkable connection with animals.
Alexander the Great riding alongside his men in Alexander: The Making of a God
2. Aristotle's Influence on the Conqueror
While the docuseries skimmed over significant details, one pivotal period eclipsed was Alexander's tutelage under the esteemed Aristotle. The intellectual grooming by Aristotle during Alexander's formative years played a crucial role in shaping his strategic acumen and philosophical outlook. The profound impact of Aristotle's teachings on Alexander's leadership and decision-making remains a crucial aspect often overlooked in his narrative.
Alexander leaning his head on Bucephalus in Alexander: The Making of a God.
3. Unveiling the Balkan Campaign
Amidst the conquests and triumphs, Alexander's campaign in the Balkans post-Phillip's demise is a chapter veiled in obscurity. The arduous task of consolidating power in Greece and quelling rebellions paints a picture of Alexander's relentless pursuit of dominance. The battles and sieges in the Balkan theater, a testament to his military prowess, are overshadowed in the grand tapestry of his conquests.
Alexander with his hand on his horse's nose in Alexander: The Making of a God.
4. The Conquest's Grim Realities
Beyond the glorified accounts, the docuseries neglected to delve into the grim aftermath of Alexander's conquests, notably the ruthless sacking of cities like Thebes. The stark brutality of war and the unforgiving nature of Alexander's military campaigns, resulting in devastation and enslavement, offer a sobering insight into the darker facets of his legacy.
Alexander calming his horse in Alexander: The Making of a God.
5. Strategic Brilliance at Hydaspes
One of the strategic marvels overshadowed in the docuseries is Alexander's tactical ingenuity at the Battle of the Hydaspes. The audacious crossing of the Hydaspes river and the ensuing victory against Porus exemplify Alexander's military genius. The battle, a testament to his strategic acumen and bold maneuvers, remains a pivotal moment in his conquests.
Alexander tending to his horse in Alexander: The Making of a God.
6. Architectural Triumph at Tyre
While briefly mentioned, the monumental feat of constructing a causeway at the Siege of Tyre remains obscured in Alexander's narrative. The engineering marvel of the causeway, altering the geography and transforming Tyre into a peninsula, showcases Alexander's visionary leadership and innovative approach to siege warfare. The enduring legacy of this architectural endeavor echoes in the annals of history.
Buck Braithwaite as Alexander the Great in Alexander: The Making of a God on Netflix.
7. Tragic Betrayal of Cleitus the Black
The tragic episode of Cleitus the Black's betrayal, culminating in Alexander's remorseful act, offers a glimpse into the complexities of his relationships. The docuseries fails to capture the emotional turmoil and the fatal consequences of this fateful encounter, underscoring the darker shades of Alexander's character and the price of power.
Buck Braithwaite as Alexander the Great in Alexander: The Making of a God on Netflix.
8. The Ambitious Claim of Succession
An often-overlooked facet of Alexander's ambition is his claim to succession in the Persian Empire, attributing it to Darius himself. The strategic narrative of legitimizing his rule and quelling dissent, a pivotal move in solidifying his authority, showcases Alexander's political acumen and foresight. The intricate web of power dynamics and legitimacy, overshadowed in the docuseries, sheds light on Alexander's calculated approach to empire-building.
Buck Braithwaite as Alexander the Great and Will Stevens as Hephaestion in Alexander: The Making of a God.
9. Uncharted Territories in India
As the docuseries concludes prematurely, Alexander's extensive campaign in India remains a hidden chapter in his conquests. The unyielding struggles and territorial expansions in the Indian subcontinent, culminating in a mutiny that halted his ambitions, reveal the challenges and triumphs of his final frontier. The untold saga of Alexander's Indian campaign unveils a chapter of his legacy overshadowed by his earlier conquests.
Alexander reaches a fort in Making of a God