☝️ Key Points
- The song tells the story of Alexander the Great and his impressive conquests.
- It emphasizes Alexander's terrifying reputation and his legend.
- The lyrics describe his victories against the Persian king Darius III and the founding of the city of Alexandria in Egypt.
- It also mentions his actions like cutting the Gordian Knot and spreading Hellenistic culture.
- The song ends with the march of Alexander's exhausted army and his death in Babylon.
Interpretation
"Alexander the Great" is a song by
Iron Maiden that tells the story of the legendary king Alexander of Macedonia. The song begins with a quote in which Alexander's father says that his son should seek a larger kingdom, as what he leaves behind is too small for him.
The lyrics describe how Alexander was born in ancient Greece and ruled as the king of Macedonia. At the age of 19, he swore to liberate all of Asia Minor from Persian rule. In 334 BC, he defeated the Persian army at the Aegean Sea.
The chorus "Alexander the Great, His name struck fear into the hearts of men, Alexander the Great, Became a legend amongst mortal men" emphasizes Alexander's fearsome reputation and his legend.
The lyrics also describe Alexander's victories against the Persian king Darius III and the conquest of Egypt, where he founded the city of Alexandria. He defeated Darius again in the Battle of Gaugamela and conquered Babylon, Susa, and the capital Persepolis.
It is also mentioned how Alexander cut the "Gordian Knot", signifying that he would gain control over Asia. He spread Hellenistic culture and laid the foundations for Christianity.
The lyrics end with the march of Alexander's exhausted army, who refuse to follow him to India. Eventually, Alexander died of fever in Babylon.
Overall, Iron Maiden's song lyrics tell the story of Alexander's impressive conquests and his rise to legend. It highlights his fearlessness and his legacy that lives on to this day."