Cutting the Gordian Knot (a metaphor.)
The phrase, "Gordian Knot" refers to an extremely difficult problem that can only be solved dramatically with decisive action. This is referred to as "cutting the Gordian knot".
In Ancient Greek history, (in 333 BC), Alexander the Great came upon a very complex know in the town of Gordium. There was a knot tied to an oxcart dedicated to Zeus, the chief Greek god. An oracle (a source of truth about the future had prophesized (foretold) that whosoever would untie the knot would become ruler of all Asia.
Alexander could not untie the knot, but he took out his sword and cut it (and later became the ruler of Asia). This bold, swift action, slicing the knotted rope with his sword, has come to mean soling a seemingly unsolvable problem by unconventional (unexpected) action.
Back to Critical Thinking Skills
Copyright: 2004 English 4 All, Inc.
