Callisthenes Greek historian, chronicler of the campaign of Alexander the Great. Date of Birth: . Country: Greece

1. Early Life and Education
2. Expedition with Alexander
3. Fall from Favor and Imprisonment
4. Historical Works
5. The Pseudo-Callisthenes
6. Collected Fragments

Callisthenes: The Greek Historian and Chronicler of Alexander's Conquest

Early Life and Education

Callisthenes was a Greek historian born in the city of Olynthus, an Athenian colony in Chalcidice. He was the grandson of Aristotle's sister, Arimnesta, and the son of her daughter, Hero. Callisthenes was brought up by Aristotle, along with the young Alexander the Great.

Expedition with Alexander

In 336 BCE, Callisthenes joined Alexander on his expedition to the East. He served as a historian, chronicling the events of the campaign. However, his frankness and outspokenness often annoyed the king.

Fall from Favor and Imprisonment

In 328 BCE, Callisthenes was accused of conspiring against Alexander. He was imprisoned and died in chains. His death prompted Theophrastus to write a book in his memory, entitled "Callisthenes, or On Grief."

Historical Works

Callisthenes wrote several historical works, including "Hellenica" (a history of Greece from 857 BCE to 387 BCE) and a history of the Sacred War with the Phocians (356 BCE - 345 BCE). Only fragments of these works have survived.

The Pseudo-Callisthenes

A fictional "History of Alexander the Great" that attributed to Callisthenes has circulated in various manuscripts. However, this work was written much later, likely in the 2nd or 3rd century CE.

Collected Fragments

Fragments of Callisthenes' authentic works have been collected by various scholars, including F.A. Westermann and B.G. Niebuhr. These fragments are a valuable source of information about Alexander's campaign and the events of his time.