Alcibiades: The Greek Politician You’ll Love to Hate

Alcibiades (450–404 BC) was a Greek politician who embodied the adage, “always leave them wanting more.” Known for his cunning political tactics and extravagant lifestyle, he was both admired and despised by his contemporaries.

Early Life

Born into an affluent family, Alcibiades was fortunate enough to receive a quality education that included philosophy and rhetoric. However, his rebellious spirit did not bode well for his teachers, as he was notorious for disrupting classes and challenging authority.

Political Career

Alcibiades entered politics at a young age and quickly gained notoriety for his charm and charisma. He was elected to the Athenian assembly, where he earned a reputation as a skilled orator and called for bold military action.

Despite some successes, Alcibiades’ career was marred by controversy. He was accused of stealing from a religious statue and maiming the sacred herms (pillars with sculpted heads) before the disastrous Sicilian Expedition. His recklessness and impulsive behavior made him both feared and respected.

Lifestyle

Alcibiades was known for his extravagant lifestyle, which included throwing lavish parties, wearing expensive jewelry, and having multiple love affairs. He was infamous for his public displays of affection, even going so far as to kiss the archaic statues of herms in public.

Exile and Death

Alcibiades’ political enemies eventually caught up with him, and he was accused of various crimes and exiled from Athens. He spent several years as a mercenary, serving first with the Spartans and then with the Persians.

In 404 BC, Alcibiades was assassinated in mysterious circumstances. Some say he was killed by his own guards, while others think he was murdered by his political enemies. Regardless of the cause of his death, it is safe to say that Alcibiades left behind a legacy of both admiration and derision.

Legacy

Alcibiades’ influence on Athenian politics cannot be understated, and his antics were often imitated by later generations of politicians. He was a larger-than-life figure who lived life on his own terms, and while some may condemn his behavior, there is no denying that he was a fascinating character.