Have you heard the story of Alexander the Great and the mermaid of the seas?
It’s a not very well-known Greek legend involving Alexander the Great and the Gorgon, (akin to a mermaid) a mythological creature. In this depiction, Alexander is holding the Gorgon, often interpreted as his sister, Thessalonike, who, according to folklore, turned into a mermaid after her brother’s death.
The legend goes that Thessalonike, in her grief over Alexander’s death, was transformed into a mermaid. She roamed the seas for centuries, stopping ships to ask sailors a single question: “Is King Alexander alive?” The correct answer, “He lives and reigns and conquers the world,” would please her, and she would let the ship pass. If they gave the wrong answer, she would sink the ship in a fit of rage.
This beautiful piece of art below captures the connection between history and legend, blending the world of myth with the story of one of Greece’s greatest heroes. Behind them, you can spot the iconic White Tower of Thessaloniki, standing tall like Alexander’s legacy.
In the background, you can see the White Tower of Thessaloniki, which is likely an allusion to the connection between the historical city and Alexander’s legacy, as Thessalonike was named in his honour by her husband, Cassander. She is also known as Thessalonike of Macedon.
Read more about this fascinating story here: https://www.dailyartmagazine.com/alexander-the-great-mermaid-sister/
