Alexander, Emperor of Greece and Constantinople
The Emperor of Greece and Constantinople whose decision to allow his son Alexander to seek knighthood at Arthur's court set the events of Cligés in motion.
Introduction#
Alexander, Emperor of Greece and Constantinople, was the ruler of the Byzantine Empire in Chrétien de Troyes’ Cligés. He was the husband of Empress Tantalis and the father of Prince Alexander and Alis.
The Imperial Family#
The emperor was married to Tantalis, with whom he had two sons. His eldest, Alexander, was born many years before his younger son Alis.
Although he appears only briefly in the romance, his reign establishes the political background for the story. When Prince Alexander expressed his desire to receive knighthood from King Arthur rather than at home, the emperor granted his request, allowing him to depart for Britain with a company of loyal Greek companions.
Death and the Succession#
Before Prince Alexander returned from Britain, the emperor fell gravely ill and ordered that his eldest son be found so he couldsucceed to the imperial throne.
The messenger sent to Britain never completed his mission. After the ship carrying him was lost, the sole survivor falsely reported that Alexander had perished during the voyage. Believing his eldest son dead, the nobles crowned Alis emperor.
When Alexander eventually returned to Constantinople, prepared to claim his rightful inheritance, the dispute was peacefully resolved. Alis retained the imperial title, while Alexander assumed the responsibilities of government, allowing the brothers to rule together.
Legacy#
Although the emperor dies before the central events of Cligés unfold, his decisions shape the destiny of both his sons. His permission for Alexander to journey to Arthur’s court leads to the birth of Cligés, while his death gives rise to the succession dispute that dominates the latter part of the romance.
Sources#
Cligés | Chrétien de Troyes, late 12th century
