Story Summary
Discover the tale of Alexander and the Pirate, where a captured sea robber challenges a conqueror's perspective on justice, power, and the definition of a thief.
Alexander the Great, the mighty conqueror of nations, once captured a notorious pirate who had been terrorizing the seas. When the pirate was brought before him in chains, Alexander demanded, 'How dare you molest the seas and trouble the peace of the world?' The pirate, unafraid, looked the emperor in the eye and replied, 'How dare you molest the whole world? Because I do it with a small ship, I am called a pirate; because you do it with a great fleet, you are called an emperor. The nature of our deeds is the same; only the scale differs.' Struck by the man’s bold logic and the undeniable truth in his words, Alexander realized the hypocrisy of his own judgment. Instead of ordering an execution, the great king ordered the pirate to be unshackled and set free, acknowledging that power does not inherently grant moral superiority.
The Moral
The scale of a deed does not change its moral character; a conqueror may be just as guilty of theft as a petty thief.
“Because I do it with a small ship, I am called a pirate; because you do it with a great fleet, you are called an emperor.”
Fun Fact
This story was a favorite among medieval philosophers and was famously cited by St. Augustine to argue that without justice, kingdoms are merely great robberies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Alexander and the Pirate?
The moral is that the scale of an action does not change its ethical nature. It challenges the idea that powerful leaders are exempt from the same moral standards applied to common criminals.
Who was the pirate who spoke to Alexander the Great?
In various literary accounts, such as those by Cicero and St. Augustine, the pirate is often referred to by the name Dionides or Diomedes.
Is the story of Alexander and the Pirate historically accurate?
While Alexander was a real historical figure, this specific encounter is likely an apocryphal legend used by ancient and medieval writers to discuss justice and political power.
How did Alexander the Great react to the pirate's bold words?
Rather than becoming angry at the pirate's insolence, Alexander was impressed by the man's wit and the truth of his observation, leading him to release the prisoner.
What did the pirate compare his small ship to?
The pirate compared his single small vessel to Alexander’s massive naval fleets and armies, arguing that both were used for the same purpose of seizing what belonged to others.
Which famous philosopher used this story in his writings?
St. Augustine famously included this tale in his work 'The City of God' to argue that kingdoms without justice are nothing more than large-scale robberies.