disgruntled Macedonians who had not been on Alexander’s campaign since the beginning,
and was thereby only accustomed to Macedonian customs.
It is arguably more important to consider how Macedonian hunting traditions could
have affected Alexander’s and Hermolaus’ reactions. Hunting was a key component in
Macedonian society for regular interaction between the king and his elite courtiers. A hunt
had the ability to shape royal style, status, and power. 30 Müller’s assertion about the
removal of the horse bei ng intrinsic to Hermolaus’ reaction is entirely possible. Hunting on
horseback had specific connotations for Macedonian aristocracy, it was a mark of excellence
and highlighted nobleman’s military skill and bravery. 31 Perhaps this would have been not
only a stronger insult to Hermolaus, but also extremely concerning, because Royal Pages
were meant to join the Companion Cavalry at the age of eighteen if they are deemed
capable. 32 Alexander’s punishment of removing his horse might have had possible
consequences for Hermolaus’ military future, and thereby his status at court. Alexander had
essentially made Hermolaus appear incompetent with no military prowess, during a hunting
expedition which was often seen as a form of battle training. 33 Considering how imperative
military stature was to the Macedonian elite, this easily could have triggered Hermolaus’
extreme reaction of plotting regicide.
In the same regard, Alexander’s punishmen t might have been a defensive response
to maintaining his control over his court. A king needed to show skill and power on a hunt.
This was particularly important to Alexander as the heroic descendant of a great warrior and
30 Carney, ‘ Hunting ’ , p. 60 31 Müller, p. 28 32 Hammond, p. 266 33 Carney, ‘ Hunting ’ , p. 62
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