Dan Carlin's Hardcore History: Show 72 - Mania for Subjugation II
Release Date: January 3, 2025
Host: Dan Carlin
Introduction
In the second installment of his multi-part series on Alexander the Great, Dan Carlin delves deeper into the tumultuous period following the assassination of Philip II of Macedon. Titled "Mania for Subjugation II," this episode explores the immediate aftermath of Philip's death, Alexander's ascension to power, his initial military campaigns, and the psychological and political complexities that shaped his early reign.
Context of Philip II's Assassination
Timestamp: [00:00]
Carlin opens by emphasizing the pivotal nature of December 7, 1941, paralleling it with historical "bolts from the blue"—unexpected events that drastically alter the course of history. He draws comparisons between Philip II's assassination and modern-day traumatic events like the 9/11 attacks, highlighting how the sudden removal of a central figure can destabilize entire regions.
"One of the things I find terrifying about life is how fortune can just turn on a dime."
— Dan Carlin [00:05]
Philip's public assassination left Macedonia's throne precarious, with Alexander III, at just 20 years old, thrust into a leadership role amidst chaos and uncertainty.
Alexander's Ascension and Early Challenges
Timestamp: [15:30]
Carlin explores the immediate power vacuum left by Philip's death, likening the situation to a coup where multiple factions vie for control. Key figures like General Antipater play crucial roles in supporting Alexander's claim to the throne, ensuring his position against rivals such as Attalus.
"You take out the spider, and then what do you have?"
— Dan Carlin [19:45]
The early days of Alexander's reign were marked by strategic purges and the elimination of potential threats, setting a precedent for his future conquests.
Military Campaigns in Thrace and Illyria
Timestamp: [35:00]
Carlin details Alexander's first military endeavors as king, focusing on his campaigns against the Thracians and Illyrians. Utilizing sources like Arrian and Ptolemy, he contrasts their accounts, noting discrepancies in the portrayal of battles and Alexander's tactics.
"Those numbers may be, you know, closer than we think."
— Dan Carlin [48:20]
Alexander's strategic genius is highlighted through his ability to anticipate enemy maneuvers and adapt his formations, demonstrating his emerging prowess as a military commander.
The Siege of Thebes: Destruction and Aftermath
Timestamp: [1:10:15]
One of the most dramatic episodes covered is the Siege of Thebes. Carlin examines the differing historical accounts, particularly those of Diodorus Siculus and Arrian, who offer contrasting narratives on the city's fall.
"The Macedonians sacked the city. They had done this before when cities had failed to surrender to Philip and forced him to take them by assault."
— Adrian Goldsworthy (as cited by Dan Carlin) [1:13:40]
The destruction of Thebes serves as a testament to Alexander's ruthless efficiency and his commitment to consolidating power, setting a grim tone for his subsequent campaigns.
Psychological Profile: Ambition, Pothos, and Arete
Timestamp: [1:35:50]
Carlin delves into the psychological motivations driving Alexander. He introduces concepts like ambition, pothos (a profound longing or yearning), and arete (excellence or virtue), analyzing how these traits influenced Alexander's decisions and leadership style.
"What do you do? I conquer nations. Well, how does that work?"
— Dan Carlin [1:37:25]
This segment provides a nuanced understanding of Alexander, portraying him not just as a conqueror but as a man driven by deeper philosophical and existential desires.
Historical Sources and Their Biases
Timestamp: [1:50:00]
Carlin emphasizes the importance of primary sources like Arrian, Plutarch, and Diodorus Siculus in reconstructing Alexander's history. He discusses the inherent biases in these accounts, especially considering the relationships between the historians and Alexander's contemporaries.
"If you can’t believe a historical account because it's one-sided, consider that most conflicts in history have disproportionate casualties."
— Dan Carlin [1:52:10]
By critically assessing these sources, Carlin encourages listeners to approach historical narratives with a discerning eye, recognizing the influence of personal and political agendas.
Conclusion: The Making of a Legend
Timestamp: [2:10:45]
Wrapping up the episode, Carlin reflects on how Alexander's early actions set the stage for his legendary status. The combination of military brilliance, psychological warfare, and ruthless consolidation of power forged his path to becoming one of history's most renowned conquerors.
"And undeniably, he's becoming a superhero-like figure, but with all the complexities and moral ambiguities that real historical figures embody."
— Dan Carlin [2:12:30]
He teases the final part of the series, promising to explore how Alexander's legacy was cemented through both his achievements and the controversies that surrounded him.
Notable Quotes
-
Dan Carlin:
"One of the things I find terrifying about life is how fortune can just turn on a dime."
[00:05] -
Dan Carlin:
"You take out the spider, and then what do you have?"
[19:45] -
Adrian Goldsworthy:
"The Macedonians sacked the city... forced him to take them by assault."
[1:13:40] -
Dan Carlin:
"What do you do? I conquer nations. Well, how does that work?"
[1:37:25] -
Dan Carlin:
"And undeniably, he's becoming a superhero-like figure, but with all the complexities and moral ambiguities that real historical figures embody."
[2:12:30]
Final Thoughts
"Mania for Subjugation II" offers a gripping exploration of Alexander the Great's rise to power, underscored by military strategy, psychological depth, and the tumultuous politics of ancient Greece. Dan Carlin masterfully intertwines historical facts with engaging narrative, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of one of history's most enigmatic figures.
For those unfamiliar with Hardcore History, this episode serves as an immersive introduction to Dan Carlin's unique storytelling style and his ability to bring ancient history to life with drama and insightful analysis.
Note: This summary is based on the provided transcript and podcast information. Advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections have been omitted to focus solely on the episode's substantive content.