Alexander Quote by Arrian
““All the authorities, however, agree as to the following facts:—that until the third day after Hephaestion’s death, Alexander neither tasted food nor paid any attention to his personal appearance, but lay on the ground either bewailing or silently mourning; that he also ordered a funeral pyre to be prepared for him in Babylon at the expense of 10,000 talents; some say at a still greater cost; that a decree was published throughout all the barbarian territory for the observance of a public mourning. Many of Alexander’s Companions dedicated themselves and their arms to the dead Hephaestion in order to show their respect to him; and the first to begin the artifice was Eumenes, whom we a short time ago mentioned as having been at variance with him. This he did that Alexander might not think he was pleased at Hephaestion’s death. Alexander did not appoint any one else to be commander of the Companion cavalry in the place of Hephaestion, so that the name of that general might not perish from the brigade; but that division of cavalry was still called Hephaestion’s and the figure made from Hephaestion went in front of it.””
About This Quote
Source Historical Account: Arrian's Anabasis of Alexander, 2nd century CE
Alexander mourned Hephaestion deeply, refusing food and appearance, ordering lavish funeral and public mourning, while keeping his name alive in the cavalry.
In simple terms: Alexander showed profound grief and honored Hephaestion publicly.
Key Takeaway
Honor deep bonds through public remembrance.
Themes
grief
loyalty
leadership
rituals
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
historical
biographical
When to use this quote
- military command
- public ceremonies
- memorial practices
Key Concepts
ancient warfare
personal loss
political symbolism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do leaders balance personal loss with public duty?
- What are the costs of elaborate mourning?
A Different Perspective
Grief can be expressed through grand public acts that may strain resources.
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