The Real Name of Alexander the Great

When discussing the legendary conqueror Alexander the Great, many individuals, including students and enthusiasts, are often curious about his exact birth name. This article aims to provide clarity on this matter, diving into the linguistic and cultural aspects of how his name was written and pronounced in ancient times.

Introduction to Alexander's Birth Name

It is a widely known fact that the name of the great conqueror Alexander the Great, as we know it in English, is simply Alexander. However, it is essential to understand that the translation of names can vary across different languages and cultures. In the case of Alexander, the English version of his birth name remains Alexander, but the original Greek name is written as Λ?ξανδρο? or in its transliterated form, Aléxandros.

The Greek Name

When we examine Alexander's name in its original Greek form, we see that it is composed of two distinct parts: λ?ξι? (léxis) meaning "speech" or "word," and δρ?μω (drámos) meaning "to do" or "to carry out." Thus, the full name means "the one who accomplishes through words" or "the one who takes action through speech."

Name Variations in Different Languages

It is important to note that while Alexander's name can be accurately translated from its Greek form into English, other languages often have their unique variations. For instance:

Dari: The name might not directly translate as "Alexander," as it does in English or other languages, but would have its own distinct form or name altogether. French: The name is closely similar to English and is referred to as Alexandre. German: Similarly to French, the name in German is also pronounced and written as Alexander.

Alexander the Great's Full Name

Alexander the Great's full name in its geographical and royal context included titles as well. After his father Philip II's reign, he was called Alexander III του Μακεδονα, which translates to Aléxandros III tου Makedona. This full name combines his personal name with his royal title.

Furthermore, due to his royal lineage, he was also known as the son of Philip, hence the term Alexandros Philipides, which in English would be Alexander Son of Philip.

The Significance of Surnames in Ancient Greece

It is crucial to note that in ancient Greece, surnames did not exist as they do today. Personal names were often suffixed with terms that described familial or geographical connections, and such was the case with Alexander. Originally, he was simply referred to as Alexander, and any additional titles or descriptions generally related to his royal position or lineage.

In conclusion, the name of Alexander the Great, as it is commonly known, is simply Alexander in English, and its original Greek form is Alexandros, with variations in different languages such as Dari, French, German, and others. His full royal title was Alexander III του Μακεδονα, or in English, Alexander III of Macedonia, and he was sometimes referred to as Alexandros Philipides, denoting his parentage.