The Archaeologist Editorial Group

Were Alexander the Great and Hephaestion Really Lovers, as Shown in Netflix’s Alexander Miniseries Documentary?

The history of Alexander the Great remains a significant and frequently debated topic among historians, primarily due to the diverse range of sources from which his story is derived. These sources, encompassing Greek, Roman, and later accounts, contribute to a complex and often contradictory narrative, rendering any claim to objective historical truth tenuous at best. Such complexities are not just confined to scholarly circles; they have found their way into popular culture as well, most recently through Netflix’s portrayal of Alexander the Great in their documentary series "Alexander the Great: The Making of a God."

In this series, Buck Braithwaite's portrayal of Alexander the Great emphasizes not only his stature as a legendary leader and military tactician but also how deeply personal his relationship with Will Stevens' Hephaestion was. Hephaestion, a general in Alexander’s army, is depicted in the series as potentially more than just a close friend—perhaps even as Alexander’s lover. This portrayal aligns with a broader trend in Netflix's historical series, such as those focusing on Troy and Cleopatra, where historical events and figures are often dramatized or relativized for entertainment purposes.

The speculation about the nature of Alexander and Hephaestion's relationship is not a recent development. Due to the lack of conclusive evidence to categorize their bond, it has been a topic of debate for more than two millennia. Dr. Salima Ikram, a professor at the American University of Cairo, suggests in the Netflix series that Hephaestion was not only Alexander's cherished companion but perhaps his greatest love. Modern historians like Robin Lane Fox, who also served as a historical advisor for Oliver Stone's 2004 film "Alexander," share this viewpoint. In his 1973 book "Alexander the Great," Fox delves into their relationship, emphasizing the depth of their connection.

One of the primary ancient texts that discuss Alexander and Hephaestion's relationship is by Quintus Curtius Rufus, a Roman senator who lived about 400 years after Alexander's death. His work, "The History of Alexander the Great," portrays Hephaestion as the dearest of Alexander's friends, privy to his secrets and counsel in a manner unmatched by others in Alexander's circle. However, the historical distance between Curtius' time and Alexander's era adds another layer of uncertainty to the narrative.

The historical context of the time further complicates the question of their relationship. According to both the Netflix series and various historical sources, same-sex relationships between men were not uncommon in ancient Greece. This cultural backdrop provides a lens through which their relationship might be viewed but does not offer conclusive evidence.

The portrayal of ancient Greek relationships, especially those involving mentorship and education, has often been misconstrued in modern narratives, leading to a distorted view of historical realities. In ancient Greece, the concept of a relationship between an older man and a younger male, commonly referred to as "pederasty," was not inherently sexual or indicative of pedophilia as understood in contemporary terms. Instead, these relationships were deeply embedded in the social fabric as a form of mentorship and intellectual development. The older male, typically in his twenties or thirties, played a crucial role in guiding the younger male, usually in his teens, through various aspects of life, including moral, physical, and intellectual education. This bond was seen as a crucial element in the transition from youth to adulthood, emphasizing the development of virtue and wisdom.

However, over time, many modern writers have retroactively applied current understandings of homosexuality and pedophilia to these historical relationships, thereby misrepresenting the nature of these mentor-mentee bonds. It's crucial to distinguish between the modern conceptions of these terms and their ancient counterparts. While the sexual component did exist in some of these relationships, it was not universally inherent or the primary focus. The emphasis was often on the cultivation of the youth's character and intellect, forming a part of the societal system of nurturing well-rounded citizens. This misinterpretation by modern authors has led to a skewed perception of ancient Greek customs, projecting contemporary values and norms onto a fundamentally different societal structure.

Furthermore, the legal and social frameworks of prominent Greek city-states like Athens and Sparta were quite stringent regarding homosexual relationships, contrary to popular modern beliefs. These laws were primarily focused on preserving social order and the traditional family structure, which were considered vital for the stability of the city-state. In Athens, for instance, while pederasty was accepted as part of the social and educational system, overt homosexual relationships between adult citizens were often frowned upon, and in some cases, could lead to severe repercussions. Similarly, in Sparta, while the rigorous military training and close bonds between soldiers encouraged strong emotional and physical ties, these relationships were regulated within certain boundaries, reflecting the city-state's focus on discipline and military excellence. These nuances highlight the complexity of understanding ancient Greek society and underscore the importance of contextualizing historical practices instead of viewing them through a modern lens.

In the end, the true nature of Alexander the Great's relationship with Hephaestion may remain an enigma. As with many historical figures, the passage of time and the evolution of storytelling traditions can obscure as much as they reveal. While we may never fully unravel the complexities of their bond, the continued interest in Alexander the Great and his life only underscores the enduring allure of his legacy. "Alexander the Great: The Making of a God" on Netflix contributes to this ongoing fascination, inviting viewers to explore the legend of one of history's most iconic figures.