Mystery of Alexander the Great's Death: How Did Alexander Really Die?

Mystery of Alexander the Great's Death

When it comes to the fate of our bodies after death, modern science has shed light on the intricate processes that unfold. From the cooling of body temperature to discoloration of the skin and the onset of rigor mortis, our understanding surpasses that of ancient civilizations. However, historical figures like Alexander the Great, who seemingly defied the expected signs of decay after death, sparked speculation and raised questions about mortality and divinity.

Unveiling Alexander the Great's Enigma

Alexander the Great's death in 323 BCE intrigued his contemporaries due to the peculiar preservation of his body for six days following his passing. In their limited understanding of the underlying scientific phenomena, they could only rationalize such an anomaly by attributing divine status to the fallen ruler.

The Illness and Death of Alexander the Great

The final days of Alexander the Great were marred by a severe illness that began during a series of extravagant parties. Accounts vary, but one narrative suggests that he collapsed, complaining of excruciating back pain, shortly after attempting to consume an entire krater of wine. Despite enduring ten days of high fever, Alexander managed to greet his soldiers with his eyes, although he could no longer speak.

Unraveling the Mystery: Causes of Alexander's Death

In the aftermath of Alexander's demise, numerous theories emerged to explain the cause of his death. Speculations ranged from poisoning and sabotage to excessive wine consumption. Modern historians have proposed alternative possibilities, such as malaria, pneumonia, typhoid fever, or even murder. However, none of these theories provide a satisfactory explanation for the extraordinary events that unfolded after his passing.

The Unexplained Phenomenon: Alexander's Remarkable Preservation

According to accounts by Plutarch, Alexander's body exhibited an inexplicable resistance to decay. Even when exposed to moist and stifling conditions, it remained remarkably fresh and free from the typical signs of decomposition. This peculiar preservation continued for six days until preparations for burial commenced, and no physical changes were observed.

A Scientific Perspective: Alexander's Death and Preservation

Dr. Katherine Hall, a lecturer at Dunedin School of Medicine in New Zealand, introduced a compelling hypothesis in 2018. She proposed that Alexander the Great might have suffered from Guillain-Barré syndrome, an acute autoimmune disorder leading to muscle paralysis. This theory suggests the possibility that Alexander was mistakenly declared dead, as physicians misinterpreted his shallow breathing as the absence of breathing altogether. Consequently, the subsequent embalming process, which involved disemboweling, may have resulted in his actual demise.

The Enduring Enigma: Evaluating Alexander's Fate

While we cannot travel back in time to confirm Dr. Hall's theory definitively, it provides a comprehensive explanation that considers all the intricate details surrounding Alexander's death and the unusual preservation of his body. In the absence of supernatural beliefs, this perspective challenges the notion of Alexander as a deity. After all, if he were a god, why would he succumb to death?

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