ALEXANDER AND HIS HORSE BUCEPHALUS

 ALEXANDER AND HIS HORSE BUCEPHALUS

Bucephalus became calm in Alexander’s presence and allowed himself to be gently handled. Alexander turned the horse’s head so he would not see his own shadow, which had been frightening him. He quietly removed his cloak and smoothly leapt onto the horse’s back. Instead of trying to force or control him harshly, Alexander gave him freedom and encouraged him with his voice. The horse ran swiftly across the plains.

At first, the king and his courtiers watched in fear, but soon their fear turned into admiration and delight. After the horse had run enough, Alexander easily guided him back and returned safely. The courtiers praised him, and King Philip proudly said that Alexander deserved a kingdom greater than Macedon.

Alexander had understood the horse’s nature correctly. Bucephalus became gentle and obedient, always responding to his master. He would even kneel on his front legs so Alexander could mount him more easily. Alexander kept him for many years and made him his favorite war horse. Stories were told about the horse’s intelligence and bravery in battle. When prepared for war, Bucephalus seemed proud and excited, and he would allow no one but Alexander to ride him.

What happened to Bucephalus in the end is not certain. One story says that during a battle, Alexander was surrounded by enemies. Bucephalus, though badly wounded, struggled with all his strength to carry Alexander to safety. Once he had done so, he collapsed and died from exhaustion.

Another story suggests he survived and lived to the age of thirty, which is very old for a horse. When he finally died, Alexander honored him with a grand burial and built a small city in his memory, called Bucephalia.

Bucephalia was an ancient city built by Alexander the Great in memory of his horse Bucephalus. It is believed to have been located near the Jhelum River in present-day Pakistan, close to where the famous Battle of the Hydaspes was fought.

Brave young Alexander, bold and bright,
Tamed a wild horse none could ride.
Bucephalus ran swift and free,
Across the plains with strength and glee.

With gentle hands and fearless heart,
He calmed the horse right from the start.
Together strong in every way,
They rode to glory day by day.