The cutting of the Gordian Knot is an Ancient Greek legend associated with Alexander the Great in Gordium in Phrygia, regarding a complex knot that tied an oxcart. Reputedly, whoever could untie it would be destined to rule all of Asia. In 333 BC Alexander was challenged to untie the knot. Instead of untangling it laboriously as expected, he dramatically cut through it with his sword, thus exercising another form of mental genius. It is thus used as a metaphor for a seemingly intractable problem which is solved by exercising brute force.
Alexander the Great cuts the Gordian Knot by Jean-Simon Berthélemy (1743–1811)
Alexander the Great Cutting the Gordian Knot (1767) by Jean-François Godefroy
Alexander the Great Cutting the Gordian Knot by André Castaigne (1898–1899)
Alexander III of Macedon, most commonly known as Alexander the Great, was a king of the ancient Greek kingdom of Macedon. He succeeded his father Philip II to the throne in 336 BC at the age of 20 and spent most of his ruling years conducting a lengthy military campaign throughout Western Asia, Central Asia, parts of South Asia, and Egypt. By the age of 30, he had created one of the largest empires in history, stretching from Greece to northwestern India. He was undefeated in battle and is widely considered to be one of history's greatest and most successful military commanders.
Alexander in the Alexander Mosaic
Archaeological site of Pella, Greece, Alexander's birthplace
Roman medallion depicting Olympias, Alexander's mother
Philip II of Macedon, Alexander's father