The Golden Mean

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On the orders of his childhood friend, King Philip of Macedon, Aristotle sets aside his aspirations to lead the Academy in Athens and travels to Pella to tutor the king’s sons. One son, affected by an early illness, has the intellect of a child, while the other, destined for greatness, grapples with the demands of a warrior society. Initially viewing Pella as a brutal backwater, Aristotle's relentless curiosity leads him to embrace the challenge of teaching, particularly Alexander, whom he sees as a kindred spirit with a questioning mind and a sense of destiny. He strives to impart the concept of the golden mean, hoping to temper Alexander's ambition to conquer. As Alexander's role as Philip's heir solidifies and his military successes grow, Aristotle's teachings are increasingly honored yet ignored. Despite troubling events on the battlefield, Alexander remains focused on expanding his empire, making Aristotle's intellectual pursuits seem less relevant. Annabel Lyon captures this legendary era through Aristotle's earthy, perceptive voice, using vivid prose to illustrate how Aristotle's influence shaped the boy who would go on to conquer much of the known world, leaving a lasting legacy that still resonates today.