Alexander the Great Debate

🏛️ Interactive Debate: The Legacy of Alexander the Great

Overview

Was Alexander the Great truly “Great,” or was he simply a ruthless conqueror driven by ego?
In this interactive debate, you’ll step into the sandals of ancient thinkers, generals, and chroniclers to defend your viewpoint. Working in teams, you’ll research, prepare, and deliver persuasive arguments about Alexander’s legacy — through the voice of a historical figure.

⚔️ Objective

To critically evaluate Alexander the Great’s impact on world history — considering his empire, leadership, cultural influence, and morality — through historical role-play and debate.

👥 Step 1: Divide into Teams

Your class will split into two main factions:

  • Team A: Alexander the Great was truly “Great.”
    (Celebrate his achievements, vision, and legacy.)

  • Team B: Alexander the Great was not “Great.”
    (Expose his flaws, destruction, and ambitions.)

Each team will include several historical personas, who will bring different perspectives to the argument.

🏺 Step 2: Choose a Historical Character

You’ll argue your position in character — as if you lived during or after Alexander’s time.
Choose one of the following roles or propose your own:

Pro-Alexander Characters

  1. Aristotle – Alexander’s tutor, who saw him as the realization of Greek potential.

  2. Ptolemy I Soter – One of Alexander’s generals and later ruler of Egypt; saw Alexander as a godlike figure.

  3. Callisthenes – Court historian who chronicled Alexander’s achievements (until his fall from favor).

  4. Cleitus the Black – A loyal officer who once saved Alexander’s life (before meeting a tragic end).

  5. Greek Merchant from Corinth – Benefited from Alexander’s new trade routes and cultural diffusion.

Anti-Alexander Characters

  1. Indian Philosopher – Witnessed the destruction and resistance in the East.

  2. Persian Noble – Saw Alexander as a brutal invader and oppressor.

  3. Spartan Statesman – Believed Alexander’s empire betrayed Greek liberty.

  4. Athenian Scholar – Criticized Alexander’s thirst for personal glory and autocracy.

  5. Egyptian Priest – Questioned Alexander’s claim of divine sonship and cultural superiority.

Neutral / Reflective Voices (optional)

  1. Roman Historian (Plutarch, Arrian, or Curtius Rufus) – Evaluates Alexander’s mixed legacy.

  2. Modern Historian (speaking from the future) – Compares Alexander’s empire-building to later empires.

  3. Soldier in Alexander’s Army – Torn between pride and exhaustion from endless conquest.

📜 Step 3: Research & Prepare

Each team will:

  1. Research the real historical perspective of their characters.

  2. Gather evidence — quotes, primary sources, and facts about Alexander’s rule, battles, and cultural impact.

  3. Prepare opening statements, rebuttals, and closing remarks.

  4. Coordinate within your team to present a unified argument while maintaining your character’s individuality.

💡 Use of AI Tools:
You may use ChatGPT or other AI resources to help gather research, clarify historical events, or draft ideas.
However, you must:

Verify all information from reliable sources (class readings, academic websites, or teacher-approved materials).

Write and speak in your own words and voice.

Demonstrate a genuine understanding of your argument — not a script you don’t understand.

Be ready to answer questions about your position without AI help during the debate.

🗣️ Step 4: Debate Format

1. Opening Statements - Each side introduces its main argument (2–3 speakers each). 5 min per side

2. Cross-Examination - Each side asks the other questions to challenge assumptions. 5 min per side

3. Rebuttals - Respond to specific points made by the opposing team. 3 min per side

4. Character Appeals - Each individual character gives a short (1 min) speech in character. 1 min each

5. Closing Arguments - Summarize and persuade the audience/judges. 3 min per side

6. Audience Vote / Jury Deliberation - Neutral judges or classmates decide: Was Alexander truly “Great”? 5 min

🎭 Step 5: Presentation Guidelines

  • Stay in character throughout the debate.

  • Use historical context and tone appropriate to your persona.

  • Employ rhetoric, evidence, and emotional appeal — just as real orators would.

  • Be creative! Props, maps, and visual aids are welcome if they enhance your argument.