Alexander's Encounters with the Amazons

Summaries of Alexander's Encounters with the Amazons as Described by Historical Sources:

Cleitarchus- Some historians believe he may have taken this story from Onesicritus. Pharasmenes, king of the Chorasmians, offered to guide Alexander in a campaign against the Amazons. Alexander was also offered, but rejected, a Scythian bride.

Diodorus Siculus- Thallestris, queen of the Amazons, known for her beauty and strength, approached Alexander with 300 Amazons, with the intention of having a child with him, since he was considered the greatest man on Earth, and she considered herself the greatest woman on Earth. After 13 days of having sexual relations with her, he sent her home with impressive gifts.

Quintus Curtius Rufus- Basic description is very similar to that of Diodorus, however, he includes more details regarding the Amazons themselves, such as the dress of the Amazons (bare left breast), and the cauterization of the right breast for improved use of the bow and arrow. He also mentions that Alexander asked Thaletris to join him on his campaign, but she declined.

Justin- Again, the basic plot description is similar to that of Diodorus. This account includes an alternate name for Thalestris (Minythyia), and the detail of her travelling 35 days to meet up with Alexander.

Plutarch- He seems to doubt the validity of the Amazon episode in Alexander's campaign. He mentions that Aristobulus, Ptolemy, Anticlides and many others claim that it is pure fabrication. He says Alexander wrote a letter to Antipater regarding this episode, talking about the Scythian king, but not mentioning the Amazons.

Arrian- Includes the account of the Scythian king offering his daughter's hand in marriage to Alexander, as well as the account of Pharasmenes' offer to be Alexander's guide in the campaign against the Amazons.


Reference:

Yardley, J.C., Heckel, Waldemer, and David H. McKay. Alexander the Great: Historical Texts in Translation. Oxford: Blackwell Publishing LTD, 2004.