Alexander and Bucephalus

When Alexander was 12, someone wanted to sell a horse to his father,
King Philip.  When they found the horse, King Philip and his courtiers
tried to get on him but couldn't.  "Hmph!" said Philip.  "he won't let
us on so send him away."  Alexander said, "I will try."  He made the
horse face the sun so he couldn't see his shadow which was making him
wild.  Alexander coaxed him gently and mounted.  He guided him about
easily and finally let him gallop.  King Philip cried for joy because
his son could ride the horse.  "Macedonia is too small for you," he told
his son.  "Go and find a bigger kingdom."  Alexander named the horse
Bucephalus.
 

Go back to the Gallery Index
Go home to the Well-Trained Mind page