Discovering the Balance: the Golden Mean
Discovering the Balance
Jessica Rodgers ID: 1518306
In the book The Golden Mean, author Annabel Lyon explores the relationship between the Greek philosopher Aristotle and young Alexander. Through the eyes of Aristotle she illustrates the oldest and most infamous student-mentor relationships in history. Aristotle is portrayed as an unpleasant, often cold-hearted philosopher, disciplined in his studies. Alexander is described as proud, extremely stubborn and impulsive. Despite his ruthless exterior, Alexander takes an interest in philosophy and medicine and develops a connection with Aristotle. Although there are vast differences in the personalities and temperament of these two characters; there is a common thread: both men suffer from mental disorders. Alexander suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, described in the novel as “soldier’s heart” (Lyon 166). Aristotle suffers from bi-polar disorder and depression; which he describes as moving “from black melancholy to golden joy” (Lyon 156). They each suffer in different ways. Alexander’s suffering is more outwardly displayed; while Aristotle suffers more internally. Together they lean on their love of philosophy to assist in managing and coping with their disorders. Both share a passion for nature, discovery, and affection for the unknown. Aristotle tries to instil balance in the young prince. He teaches Alexander the golden mean: a middle point between life’s extremes which will lead to the ultimate goal of true happiness. It is clear in the novel that Aristotle himself has not reached the Golden Mean, possibly due to his bi-polar disorder. In teaching Alexander, Aristotle inspires in himself a search for balance, a life of virtue and ultimately true happiness.
Early in the novel we learn of Aristotle’s struggles with bipolar disorder. He details his shifts in moods and temperament claiming to “cry easily, laugh easily, and get angry easily” (Lyon 30). He states, “There’s
Jessica Rodgers ID: 1518306
In the book The Golden Mean, author Annabel Lyon explores the relationship between the Greek philosopher Aristotle and young Alexander. Through the eyes of Aristotle she illustrates the oldest and most infamous student-mentor relationships in history. Aristotle is portrayed as an unpleasant, often cold-hearted philosopher, disciplined in his studies. Alexander is described as proud, extremely stubborn and impulsive. Despite his ruthless exterior, Alexander takes an interest in philosophy and medicine and develops a connection with Aristotle. Although there are vast differences in the personalities and temperament of these two characters; there is a common thread: both men suffer from mental disorders. Alexander suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, described in the novel as “soldier’s heart” (Lyon 166). Aristotle suffers from bi-polar disorder and depression; which he describes as moving “from black melancholy to golden joy” (Lyon 156). They each suffer in different ways. Alexander’s suffering is more outwardly displayed; while Aristotle suffers more internally. Together they lean on their love of philosophy to assist in managing and coping with their disorders. Both share a passion for nature, discovery, and affection for the unknown. Aristotle tries to instil balance in the young prince. He teaches Alexander the golden mean: a middle point between life’s extremes which will lead to the ultimate goal of true happiness. It is clear in the novel that Aristotle himself has not reached the Golden Mean, possibly due to his bi-polar disorder. In teaching Alexander, Aristotle inspires in himself a search for balance, a life of virtue and ultimately true happiness.
Early in the novel we learn of Aristotle’s struggles with bipolar disorder. He details his shifts in moods and temperament claiming to “cry easily, laugh easily, and get angry easily” (Lyon 30). He states, “There’s
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