7 – He Loved the Arts & Was Far from Being a Barbarian
There are very few writers in antiquity that have ever written an unbiased account of Philip’s personality. Greek sources, in particular, are scathing in their criticism of the Macedonian king and suggest he was an alcoholic, temperamental, lying, cheating, violent, aggressive, cowardly womanizer who also had sex with young boys. While there is little doubt that Philip was a fighting man who enjoyed sex with both genders, there is evidence to suggest that the king wasn’t the tyrannical despot of lore.
In fact, a Greek diplomat named Ctesiphon claimed that Philip was “sweet and charming” while also possessing an excellent memory and outstanding oratory skills. The king was a known lover of theatre and drama and was interested in philosophy, history, and poetry. In fact, some of the greatest intellectuals of the age were invited to the Macedonian court, including Speusippus (nephew of Plato). Also, Aristotle was hired as Alexander’s tutor.
Despite his outstanding military prowess, Philip wasn’t averse to diplomacy as a means of avoiding war. When his brother, Perdiccas III, was killed by the Illyrians, and his army destroyed, Philip renewed the confidence of his men and he did so again after suffering defeat to Onomarchus in 353 BC. One of his great skills was the ability to hide his true feelings and intentions; he was able to do so even when in the company of great diplomats known for their ability to read an individual.
The writer Justin noted the difference in personality when compared to his son, Alexander. According to Justin: “Philip preferred to be loved while his son, Alexander, preferred to be feared.” As his ultimate goal was to transform the semi-feudal Macedonian state into a superpower, Philip knew that diplomacy would occasionally be necessary. Historian J. F. C. Fuller concluded his assessment of Philip by suggesting that the king was “a man of outstanding character; practical, long-sighted and unscrupulous.