Some scholars described Hephaestion and Alexander's closeness as romantic, with ancient records hinting that Alexander "was ruled by Hephaestion's thighs". Philosopher Aristotle said that they were "one soul abiding two bodies". Alexander and Hephaestion also compared themselves to the great heroes Achilles and Patroclus, who were seen as lovers by some.
At the age of 32, Hephaestion suddenly died, and some scholars speculated that he was possibly poisoned by one of those who were jealous of his closeness with the king. His death profoundly saddened and affected Alexander. Merely eight months later, while still planing on more memorial services for his late friend, the still grieving king passed away a month before his 33rd birthday.
Whether you believe they were lovers or not, may the two halves of one soul be complete in the house of death.
Credit: Profile by me.
source of the overly simplified
text: the infamous wikipedia.
source of the overly simplified
text: the infamous wikipedia.