Diogenes And Alexander

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Reading Response Student: Cassandra Wood Article: Diogenes And Alexander Author: Gilbert Highet Gilbert Highet the author of the article, “Diogenes and Alexander,” describes a meeting between two sharply contrasted personalities of history. Diogenes was a grotesque, cynical philosopher who scorned human comforts and preached to any who would listen. Yet Alexander was the undefeated Macedonian king, one of the most powerful conquerors of all time. When Alexander arrived to meet with Diogenes, all rose to greet the king in honor but Diogenes laid on the ground in silence. His Majesty spoke to Diogenes, “Is there anything I can do for you?” “yes,” said Diogenes. “Stand to one side. You’re blocking the sunlight.” The crowd awaited the king’s reaction to Diogenes startling words. Alexander only walked away, and said quietly, “If I were not Alexander, I should be Diogenes.” There was hush of amazement from the crowd. Those hearing Alexander’s remark took it as a paradox, meant to defuse an awkward situation. I believe that Alexander recognized himself in Diogenes: Alexander knew that of all men then alive in the world only Alexander the conqueror and Diogenes the beggar were truly free. This is an important story in history; however, this essay made it more inspiring and eventful. With the use of emphatic order I found the key message in this essay very clear: being free means learning one’s values and living by them. Gilbert Highet’s tone and level of language used was extremely detailed and coherent because of this, I could truly visualize the whole story and its characters. This essay has reminded me that I can not let myself be consumed by false, perishable objects, like elaborate furniture and expensive clothes for

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