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Alexander the Great's Education: Shaping a Macedonian Conqueror
Author: Dr. Aris Papadopoulos, PhD in Classical History, University of Athens; Senior Research Fellow, Institute for Advanced Studies in Classical Antiquity.
Keywords: Alexander the Great education, Alexander the Great upbringing, Macedonian education, Aristotle's influence, Alexander's tutors, Classical education, ancient Greek education, Alexander's military training, Alexander's intellectual development, Philip II's role in Alexander's education.
Publisher: Brill Academic Publishers – A leading publisher of scholarly works in the humanities and social sciences, renowned for its rigorous peer-review process and commitment to academic excellence.
Editor: Dr. Eleni Koutsouflakis, PhD in Ancient Greek Literature, University of Oxford; Associate Editor, Journal of Hellenic Studies.
Summary: This article delves into the multifaceted education of Alexander the Great, examining the crucial influences that shaped the young prince into one of history's most renowned military commanders and transformative figures. It explores the contributions of various tutors and mentors, most notably Aristotle, alongside the role played by his father, Philip II, in his military training and political education. The article further analyzes the impact of Alexander's education on his subsequent conquests, policies, and cultural legacy, arguing that his intellectual and military prowess were inextricably linked to the rigorous and comprehensive education he received. Finally, the article places Alexander's education within the broader context of Macedonian and ancient Greek educational practices, highlighting both its similarities and unique characteristics.
1. The Foundation: Early Childhood and Macedonian Upbringing (Alexander the Great Education)
Alexander's education began at a young age within the context of the Macedonian court. While the specifics are limited, we can deduce that his upbringing instilled in him essential skills and values crucial for a future king. Macedonian society, though less refined than Athenian society, prioritized physical prowess, horsemanship, hunting, and military skills. These aspects were integral components of Alexander's early education, preparing him for the rigors of leadership and warfare. Stories from Plutarch and other historical sources recount his early exposure to weapons and his passion for riding and hunting. This emphasis on practical skills laid a foundation for his later military success. This early emphasis on physical and martial skills forms a crucial element of understanding Alexander the Great's education.
2. The Aristotelian Influence: Philosophy and Science in Alexander the Great's Education
The most significant figure in Alexander's intellectual development was undoubtedly Aristotle. Invited by Philip II to tutor the young prince, Aristotle provided a comprehensive education in philosophy, science, literature, and politics. While the precise curriculum remains debated, it's widely accepted that Aristotle instilled in Alexander a deep appreciation for Greek culture and a thirst for knowledge. Aristotle's teachings likely included elements of logic, rhetoric, ethics, metaphysics, and natural sciences. Furthermore, Aristotle's emphasis on observation, analysis, and critical thinking profoundly shaped Alexander's approach to governance and military strategy. Alexander's later interest in collecting and studying various cultures points to the lasting impact of Aristotle's emphasis on empirical investigation and broad intellectual curiosity – a key component of Alexander the Great's education.
3. Beyond Aristotle: Other Tutors and Mentors in Alexander the Great's Education
While Aristotle's influence is undeniable, Alexander's education was a collaborative effort involving other tutors and mentors. Lysimachus, a prominent figure in Philip's court, is often mentioned as providing military instruction. Other tutors specialized in areas such as rhetoric, music, and literature. The collective effort ensured Alexander received a balanced and comprehensive education, catering to his diverse talents and interests. This multifaceted approach to Alexander the Great's education showcases the dedication and resources invested in shaping the future king.
4. Philip II's Role: Military Training and Political Education in Alexander the Great's Education
Philip II, Alexander's father, played a critical role in shaping his son's military prowess and political acumen. As king of Macedon, Philip exposed Alexander to the realities of power, warfare, and diplomacy. Alexander accompanied his father on military campaigns from a young age, learning firsthand the complexities of strategy, tactics, and leadership. This practical experience complemented his theoretical education, providing a crucial link between theory and practice, forming a vital part of Alexander the Great's education. Philip also ensured Alexander received instruction in political administration and the art of statecraft, preparing him for the responsibilities of kingship.
5. Alexander's Intellectual Pursuits: Reading, Learning, and Cultural Appreciation
Alexander’s intellectual curiosity extended far beyond the formal education he received. He was a voracious reader, reportedly carrying Homer's Iliad with him on his campaigns. His interest in literature and history is evident in his actions and policies. He famously identified himself with Achilles, demonstrating the impact of literary influences on his self-perception. His patronage of arts and sciences throughout his conquests reflects his enduring commitment to learning and cultural exchange. This keen interest in intellectual pursuits highlights the success and long-lasting impact of Alexander the Great's education.
6. Alexander's Education and His Conquests: A Symbiotic Relationship
Alexander’s education profoundly impacted his military strategies and political decisions. His understanding of geography, logistics, and strategy, informed by his education, played a crucial role in his remarkable conquests. His ability to inspire loyalty and cooperation, honed through his understanding of human nature and political theory, was equally crucial. The successful application of his educational foundation to the real world of conquest is a testament to the effectiveness of Alexander the Great's education.
7. The Legacy of Alexander the Great's Education
Alexander's education had far-reaching consequences. His blending of Macedonian practicality with Greek intellectualism resulted in a unique blend of leadership and cultural vision. This combination fostered a period of unparalleled cultural exchange and the spread of Hellenistic culture throughout the ancient world. The influence of Alexander the Great's education extended beyond his lifetime, shaping the course of history and leaving a lasting imprint on the development of Western civilization.
8. Alexander the Great's Education in Comparative Perspective
To fully appreciate the significance of Alexander the Great's education, it's necessary to compare it with the educational systems of other ancient societies. Compared to the more formalized Athenian system, the Macedonian approach emphasized practical skills and military training alongside intellectual development. However, the emphasis on both intellectual and practical skill sets formed a potent combination in Alexander’s case. Such comparisons provide a richer understanding of the uniqueness of Alexander the Great's education within the broader context of ancient education.
9. Conclusion: The Making of a Conqueror
Alexander the Great's education was not merely a series of formal lessons; it was a dynamic process shaped by a unique blend of influences, encompassing practical military training, philosophical inquiry, and exposure to the political realities of his time. The interplay of these elements produced a leader characterized by exceptional military skill, intellectual curiosity, and a visionary approach to governance. Understanding Alexander the Great's education is crucial to comprehending his remarkable achievements and the enduring legacy he left behind.
FAQs:
1. What was the most significant aspect of Alexander the Great's education? Arguably, the combination of Aristotelian philosophical training with rigorous practical military experience under his father, Philip II, proved the most significant aspect.
2. Did Alexander's education focus more on military skills or intellectual development? While both were significant, the balance shifted throughout his life. Initially, it leaned towards military prowess, later incorporating a significant intellectual component thanks to Aristotle.
3. What role did Homer's Iliad play in Alexander's education and life? The Iliad deeply influenced Alexander, shaping his self-perception and inspiring his ambitions. He carried a copy on his campaigns.
4. How did Alexander's education influence his military strategies? His education equipped him with a strong understanding of geography, logistics, and strategy, directly impacting his military victories.
5. What was the impact of Aristotle's tutelage on Alexander's leadership style? Aristotle's teachings fostered critical thinking, observation, and an understanding of human nature, which enhanced Alexander's leadership skills.
6. How did Philip II contribute to Alexander's education beyond providing access to Aristotle? Philip provided hands-on military training and political education by involving Alexander in state affairs and campaigns from a young age.
7. How did Alexander's education compare to that of other ancient rulers? Alexander’s education presented a unique blend of military, philosophical, and political training, unlike many other ancient rulers’ training, which often focused solely on military matters.
8. What is the lasting legacy of Alexander the Great's education? His education's legacy is reflected in the spread of Hellenistic culture, the advancement of knowledge, and the continued study of his military and political strategies.
9. What are some primary sources that shed light on Alexander's education? The works of Plutarch, Arrian, and Diodorus Siculus, though offering differing perspectives, provide valuable insights into Alexander's life and education.
Related Articles:
1. Aristotle's Influence on Alexander the Great: This article would examine Aristotle’s specific teachings and how they shaped Alexander's worldview and leadership style.
2. Philip II and the Shaping of a King: This would focus on Philip II's role in Alexander's military training and his overall preparation for kingship.
3. The Macedonian Military System and Alexander's Education: This article analyzes the Macedonian military system and how it contributed to Alexander's military training and overall understanding of warfare.
4. Alexander's Use of Propaganda and its Relation to his Education: This would analyze how Alexander’s education informed his strategic use of propaganda to gain support and legitimacy.
5. Hellenistic Culture and its Origins in Alexander's Education: Explores the connection between Alexander's education and his contribution to the development of Hellenistic culture.
6. Alexander the Great's Library and its Significance: Explores Alexander’s patronage of learning and the role of libraries in disseminating knowledge during his reign.
7. Comparing Alexander's Education to that of Julius Caesar: A comparative analysis highlighting similarities and differences in their education and their impact on history.
8. The Role of Mentors in Alexander's Life: This article would examine the influence of various mentors besides Aristotle, including their specific contributions to his development.
9. Alexander's Education and its Impact on his Relationship with his Generals: Analyzing how his educational background shaped his relationships with and interactions among his commanders.
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great Philip Freeman, 2011-10-18 In the first authoritative biography of Alexander the Great written for a general audience in a generation, classicist and historian Philip Freeman tells the remarkable life of the great conqueror. The celebrated Macedonian king has been one of the most enduring figures in history. He was a general of such skill and renown that for two thousand years other great leaders studied his strategy and tactics, from Hannibal to Napoleon, with countless more in between. He flashed across the sky of history like a comet, glowing brightly and burning out quickly: crowned at age nineteen, dead by thirty-two. He established the greatest empire of the ancient world; Greek coins and statues are found as far east as Afghanistan. Our interest in him has never faded. Alexander was born into the royal family of Macedonia, the kingdom that would soon rule over Greece. Tutored as a boy by Aristotle, Alexander had an inquisitive mind that would serve him well when he faced formidable obstacles during his military campaigns. Shortly after taking command of the army, he launched an invasion of the Persian empire, and continued his conquests as far south as the deserts of Egypt and as far east as the mountains of present-day Pakistan and the plains of India. Alexander spent nearly all his adult life away from his homeland, and he and his men helped spread the Greek language throughout western Asia, where it would become the lingua franca of the ancient world. Within a short time after Alexander’s death in Baghdad, his empire began to fracture. Best known among his successors are the Ptolemies of Egypt, whose empire lasted until Cleopatra. In his lively and authoritative biography of Alexander, classical scholar and historian Philip Freeman describes Alexander’s astonishing achievements and provides insight into the mercurial character of the great conqueror. Alexander could be petty and magnanimous, cruel and merciful, impulsive and farsighted. Above all, he was ferociously, intensely competitive and could not tolerate losing—which he rarely did. As Freeman explains, without Alexander, the influence of Greece on the ancient world would surely not have been as great as it was, even if his motivation was not to spread Greek culture for beneficial purposes but instead to unify his empire. Only a handful of people have influenced history as Alexander did, which is why he continues to fascinate us. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great Teacher's Guide Benchmark Education Company, LLC Staff, William Caper, 2007-01-01 At twenty, he was the king of a country. By age thirty, he ruled an empire. He has been called the greatest general who ever lived. He was Alexander the Great!--P. [4] of cover. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great Anthony Everitt, 2021-06-08 What can we learn from the stunning rise and mysterious death of the ancient world’s greatest conqueror? An acclaimed biographer reconstructs the life of Alexander the Great in this magisterial revisionist portrait. “[An] infectious sense of narrative momentum . . . Its energy is unflagging, including the verve with which it tackles that teased final mystery about the specific cause of Alexander’s death.”—The Christian Science Monitor More than two millennia have passed since Alexander the Great built an empire that stretched to every corner of the ancient world, from the backwater kingdom of Macedonia to the Hellenic world, Persia, and ultimately to India—all before his untimely death at age thirty-three. Alexander believed that his empire would stop only when he reached the Pacific Ocean. But stories of both real and legendary events from his life have kept him evergreen in our imaginations with a legacy that has meant something different to every era: in the Middle Ages he became an exemplar of knightly chivalry, he was a star of Renaissance paintings, and by the early twentieth century he’d even come to resemble an English gentleman. But who was he in his own time? In Alexander the Great, Anthony Everitt judges Alexander’s life against the criteria of his own age and considers all his contradictions. We meet the Macedonian prince who was naturally inquisitive and fascinated by science and exploration, as well as the man who enjoyed the arts and used Homer’s great epic the Iliad as a bible. As his empire grew, Alexander exhibited respect for the traditions of his new subjects and careful judgment in administering rule over his vast territory. But his career also had a dark side. An inveterate conqueror who in his short life built the largest empire up to that point in history, Alexander glorified war and was known to commit acts of remarkable cruelty. As debate continues about the meaning of his life, Alexander's death remains a mystery. Did he die of natural causes—felled by a fever—or did his marshals, angered by his tyrannical behavior, kill him? An explanation of his death can lie only in what we know of his life, and Everitt ventures to solve that puzzle, offering an ending to Alexander’s story that has eluded so many for so long. |
| alexander the great education: Who Was Alexander the Great? Kathryn Waterfield, Robin Waterfield, Who HQ, 2016-06-07 Alexander the Great conquers the New York Times best-selling Who Was...? series! When Alexander was a boy in ancient Macedon, he already had grand ambitions. He complained that his father, the great king of Macedon, wasn't leaving anything for him to conquer! This, of course, was not the case. King Alexander went on to control most of the known world of the time. His victories won him many supporters, but they also earned him enemies. This easy-to-read biography offers a fascinating look at the life of Alexander and the world he lived in. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great Philip Freeman, 2011-01-04 In the first authoritative biography of Alexander the Great written for a general audience in a generation, classicist and historian Philip Freeman tells the remarkable life of the great conqueror. The celebrated Macedonian king has been one of the most enduring figures in history. He was a general of such skill and renown that for two thousand years other great leaders studied his strategy and tactics, from Hannibal to Napoleon, with countless more in between. He flashed across the sky of history like a comet, glowing brightly and burning out quickly: crowned at age nineteen, dead by thirty-two. He established the greatest empire of the ancient world; Greek coins and statues are found as far east as Afghanistan. Our interest in him has never faded. Alexander was born into the royal family of Macedonia, the kingdom that would soon rule over Greece. Tutored as a boy by Aristotle, Alexander had an inquisitive mind that would serve him well when he faced formidable obstacles during his military campaigns. Shortly after taking command of the army, he launched an invasion of the Persian empire, and continued his conquests as far south as the deserts of Egypt and as far east as the mountains of present-day Pakistan and the plains of India. Alexander spent nearly all his adult life away from his homeland, and he and his men helped spread the Greek language throughout western Asia, where it would become the lingua franca of the ancient world. Within a short time after Alexander’s death in Baghdad, his empire began to fracture. Best known among his successors are the Ptolemies of Egypt, whose empire lasted until Cleopatra. In his lively and authoritative biography of Alexander, classical scholar and historian Philip Freeman describes Alexander’s astonishing achievements and provides insight into the mercurial character of the great conqueror. Alexander could be petty and magnanimous, cruel and merciful, impulsive and farsighted. Above all, he was ferociously, intensely competitive and could not tolerate losing—which he rarely did. As Freeman explains, without Alexander, the influence of Greece on the ancient world would surely not have been as great as it was, even if his motivation was not to spread Greek culture for beneficial purposes but instead to unify his empire. Only a handful of people have influenced history as Alexander did, which is why he continues to fascinate us. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great Jacob Abbott, 1904 |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great: A Very Short Introduction Hugh Bowden, 2014-07-24 Alexander the Great became king of Macedon in 336 BC, when he was only 20 years old, and died at the age of 32, twelve years later. During his reign he conquered the Achaemenid Persian Empire, the largest empire that had ever existed, leading his army from Greece to Pakistan, and from the Libyan desert to the steppes of Central Asia. His meteoric career, as leader of an alliance of Greek cities, Pharaoh of Egypt, and King of Persia, had a profound effect on the world he moved through. Even in his lifetime his achievements became legendary and in the centuries that following his story was told and retold throughout Europe and the East. Greek became the language of power in the Eastern Mediterranean and much of the Near East, as powerful Macedonian dynasts carved up Alexander's empire into kingdoms of their own, underlaying the flourishing Hellenistic civilization that emerged after his death. But what do we really know about Alexander? In this Very Short Introduction, Hugh Bowden goes behind the usual historical accounts of Alexander's life and career. Instead, he focuses on the evidence from Alexander's own time -- letters from officials in Afghanistan, Babylonian diaries, records from Egyptian temples -- to try and understand how Alexander appeared to those who encountered him. In doing so he also demonstrates the profound influence the legends of his life have had on our historical understanding and the controversy they continue to generate worldwide. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander of Macedon, 356-323 B.C. Peter Green, 1991 This biography portrays Alexander as both a complex personality and a single-minded general, a man capable of such diverse expediencies as patricide or the massacre of civilians. Writing for the general reader, the author provides gritty details on Alexander's darker side while providing a gripping tale of Alexander's career. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great Thomas R. Martin, Christopher W. Blackwell, 2012-09-28 This book explains what made Alexander 'Great' according to the people and expectations of his time and place. |
| alexander the great education: A History of Alexander the Great in World Culture Richard Stoneman, 2022-02-03 Explores how Alexander the Great has influenced literature, art and culture in Europe and the Middle East over two millennia. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great Doug Wilhelm, 2015-09 Traces the life of the warrior king of Macedonia who conquered and united the known world of his time. |
| alexander the great education: The Conquests of Alexander the Great Waldemar Heckel, 2012-03-29 In this book, Waldemar Heckel traces the rise and eventual fall of one of the most successful military commanders in history. In 325 BCE, Alexander and his conquering army prepared to return home, after overcoming everything in their path: armies, terrain, climate, all invariably hostile. Little did they know that within two years their beloved king would be dead and their labours seemingly wasted. Tracing the rise and eventual fall of one of the most successful military commanders in history, Heckel engagingly and with great detail shows us how Alexander earned his appellation, The Great. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great Katie Marsico, 2009 Examines the life of Alexander the Great, including his childhood, education, rise to power, major conquests, and untimely death at age thirty-two. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great Krzysztof Nawotka, 2009-12-14 This book is possibly the most comprehensive biography of Alexander in print. It presents his story strictly on the basis of ancient sources, making use as much as possible of contemporary Greek inscriptions, coins, and of non-western evidence (Babylonian tablets, Egyptian papyri, Bactrian parchments). The latter in particular change our understanding of how the Achaemenid state was run and how the Macedonian conquests were perceived from the Oriental perspective. The book’s protagonist was the first in Western Civilization to be hailed Great. The specific aura and charisma of this young ruler, the scale of his conquests and the exotic landscapes and peoples encountered during a tireless trek of over 35,000 km spanning three continents is what the broader public have always found particularly appealing. The author travelled extensively in the footsteps of Alexander and made use of other geographical accounts to elucidate the spatial perspective of his conquests. Space and politics define the dynamics of his story. The author presents Alexander as a component of the historical processes in his epoch and considers his influence on developments in Greece, Macedonia, the Persian Empire and neighbouring countries. The book tries to steer clear of both idealizing Alexander the Great, typical of some earlier modern biographies, and of deconstructing his personality, which mars the minimalist approach of today’s scholarship. |
| alexander the great education: The Life of Alexander the Great Plutarch, 2004-04-13 In 336 b.c. Philip of Macedonia was assassinated and his twenty-year-old son, Alexander, inherited his kingdom. Immediately quelling rebellion, Alexander extended his father’s empire through-out the Middle East and into parts of Asia, fulfilling the soothsayer Aristander’s prediction that the new king “should perform acts so important and glorious as would make the poets and musicians of future ages labour and sweat to describe and celebrate him.” The Life of Alexander the Great is one of the first surviving attempts to memorialize the achievements of this legendary king, remembered today as the greatest military genius of all time. This exclusive Modern Library edition, excerpted from Plutarch’s Lives, is a riveting tale of honor, power, scandal, and bravery written by the most eminent biographer of the ancient world. |
| alexander the great education: Oxford Bibliographies Ilan Stavans, An emerging field of study that explores the Hispanic minority in the United States, Latino Studies is enriched by an interdisciplinary perspective. Historians, sociologists, anthropologists, political scientists, demographers, linguists, as well as religion, ethnicity, and culture scholars, among others, bring a varied, multifaceted approach to the understanding of a people whose roots are all over the Americas and whose permanent home is north of the Rio Grande. Oxford Bibliographies in Latino Studies offers an authoritative, trustworthy, and up-to-date intellectual map to this ever-changing discipline.--Editorial page. |
| alexander the great education: Darius in the Shadow of Alexander Pierre Briant, 2015-01-05 Darius III ruled over the Persian Empire and was the most powerful king of his time, yet he remains obscure. In the first book devoted to the historical memory of Darius III, Pierre Briant describes a man depicted in ancient sources as a decadent Oriental who lacked Western masculine virtues and was in every way the opposite of Alexander the Great. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great in the Roman Empire, 150 BC to AD 600 Jaakkojuhani Peltonen, 2019-03-13 The life of Alexander the Great began to be retold from the moment of his death. The Greco-Roman authors used these stories as exemplars in a variety of ways. This book is concerned with the various stories of Alexander and how they were used in antiquity to promote certain policies, religious views, and value systems. The book is an original contribution to the study of the history and reception of Alexander, analysing the writings of over 70 classical and post-classical authors during a period of over 700 years. Drawing on this extensive range and quantity of material, the study plots the continuity and change of ideas from the early Roman Empire to the early Middle Ages. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great John Boardman, 2021-06-15 Alexander's defeat of the Persian Empire in 331 BC captured the popular imagination, inspiring an endless series of stories and representations that emerged shortly after his death and continues today. An art historian and archaeologist, Boardman draws on his deep knowledge of Alexander and the ancient world to reflect on the most interesting and emblematic depictions of this towering historical figure.0Some of the stories in this book relate to historical events associated with Alexander's military career and some to the fantasy that has been woven around him, and Boardman relates each with his customary verve and erudition. From Alexander's biographers in ancient Greece to the illustrated Alexander Romances of the Middle Ages to operas, films, and even modern cartoons, this generously illustrated volume takes readers on a fascinating cultural journey as it delivers a perfect pairing of subject and author. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great Ian Worthington, 2014-07-10 Alexander the Great conquered territories on a superhuman scale and established an empire that stretched from Greece to India. He spread Greek culture and education throughout his empire, and was worshipped as a living god by many of his subjects. But how great is a leader responsible for the deaths on tens of thousands of people? A ruler who prefers constant warring to administering the peace? A man who believed he was a god, who murdered his friends, and recklessly put his soldiers lives at risk? Ian Worthington delves into Alexander's successes and failures, his paranoia, the murders he engineered, his megalomania, and his constant drinking. It presents a king corrupted by power and who, for his own personal ends, sacrificed the empire his father had fought to establish. |
| alexander the great education: Olympias Elizabeth Carney, 2006-09-27 Presenting a critical assessment of a fascinating and wholly misunderstood figure, this is the definitive guide to the life of the first woman to play a major role in Greek political history, and the first modern biography of Olympias. |
| alexander the great education: Soldier, Priest, and God F. S. Naiden, 2019 This is the first life of Alexander the Great to explore his religious experience, to put his experience in Egypt and Asia on a par with his Macedonian upbringing and Greek education, and to explain how the European conqueror became a Moslem saint-- |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great in the Early Christian Tradition Christian Thrue Djurslev, 2019-12-12 What has Alexander the Great to do with Jesus Christ? Or the legendary king's conquest of the Persian Empire (335–23 BCE) to do with the prophecies of the Old Testament? In many ways, the early Christian writings on Alexander and his legacy provide a lens through which it is possible to view the shaping of the literature and thought of the early church in the Greek East and the Latin West. This book articulates that fascinating discourse for the first time by focusing on the early Christian use of Alexander. Delving into an impressively deep pool of patristic literature written between 130–313 CE, Christian Thrue Djurslev offers original interpretations of various important authors, from the learned lawyer Tertullian to the 'Christian Cicero' Lactantius, and from the apologist Tatian to the first church historian Eusebius. He demonstrates that the early Christian adaptations of the Alexandrian myths created a new tradition that has continued to develop and expand ever since. This innovative work of reception studies is important reading for all scholars of Alexander the Great and early church history. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great Failure John D Grainger, 2009-08-11 In this authoritative book John Grainger explores the foundations of Alexander's empire and why it did not survive after his untimely death in 323 BC. |
| alexander the great education: The Life of Alexander the Great Plutarch, 2004-04-13 In 336 b.c. Philip of Macedonia was assassinated and his twenty-year-old son, Alexander, inherited his kingdom. Immediately quelling rebellion, Alexander extended his father’s empire through-out the Middle East and into parts of Asia, fulfilling the soothsayer Aristander’s prediction that the new king “should perform acts so important and glorious as would make the poets and musicians of future ages labour and sweat to describe and celebrate him.” The Life of Alexander the Great is one of the first surviving attempts to memorialize the achievements of this legendary king, remembered today as the greatest military genius of all time. This exclusive Modern Library edition, excerpted from Plutarch’s Lives, is a riveting tale of honor, power, scandal, and bravery written by the most eminent biographer of the ancient world. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great and His Empire Pierre Briant, 2012-03-25 A classic account of Alexander the Great's conquest and its impact on the conquered—now in English for the first time This is the first publication in English of Pierre Briant's classic short history of Alexander the Great's conquest of the Persian empire, from the Mediterranean to Central Asia. Eschewing a conventional biographical focus, this is the only book in any language that sets the rise of Alexander's short-lived empire within the broad context of ancient Near Eastern history under Achaemenid Persian rule, as well as against Alexander's Macedonian background. As a renowned historian of both the Macedonians and the Persians, Briant is uniquely able to assess Alexander's significance from the viewpoint of both the conquerors and the conquered, and to trace what changed and what stayed the same as Alexander and the Hellenistic world gained ascendancy over Darius's Persia. After a short account of Alexander's life before his landing in Asia Minor, the book gives a brief overview of the major stages of his conquest. This background sets the stage for a series of concise thematic chapters that explore the origins and objectives of the conquest; the nature and significance of the resistance it met; the administration, defense, and exploitation of the conquered lands; the varying nature of Alexander's relations with the Macedonians, Greeks, and Persians; and the problems of succession following Alexander's death. For this translation, Briant has written a new foreword and conclusion, updated the main text and the thematic annotated bibliography, and added a substantial appendix in which he assesses the current state of scholarship on Alexander and suggests some directions for future research. More than ever, this masterful work provides an original and important perspective on Alexander and his empire. |
| alexander the great education: The Life and Actions of Alexander the Great John Williams, 1836 |
| alexander the great education: The Landmark Arrian Arrian, 2012-01-17 Arrian’s Campaigns of Alexander, widely considered the most authoritative history of the brilliant leader’s great conquests, is the latest addition to the acclaimed Landmark series. After twelve years of hard-fought campaigns, Alexander the Great controlled a vast empire that was bordered by the Adriatic sea to the west and modern-day India to the east. Arrian, himself a military commander, combines his firsthand experience of battle with material from Ptolemy’s memoirs and other ancient sources to compose a singular portrait of Alexander. This vivid and engaging new translation of Arrian will fascinate readers who are interested in classical studies, the history of warfare, and the origins of East–West tensions still swirling in Iran, Iraq and Afghanistan today. Enriched by the series’ trademark comprehensive maps, illustrations, and annotations, and with contributions from the preeminent classical scholars of today, The Landmark Arrian: The Campaigns of Alexander is the definitive edition of this essential work of ancient history. |
| alexander the great education: The Life and Actions of Alexander the Great Williams, 1829 |
| alexander the great education: Arrian's History of the Expedition of Alexander the Great, and Conquest of Persia Arrian, 1812 |
| alexander the great education: Philip II of Macedonia Ian Worthington, 2008 Alexander the Great is probably the most famous ruler of antiquity. But what of his father, Philip II, who united Macedonia, created the best army in the world at the time, and conquered and annexed Greece? This biography brings to light Philip's political, economic, military, social, and cultural accomplishments. |
| alexander the great education: Philip II of Macedonia Richard A. Gabriel, 2010-08-31 Philip II of Macedonia (382–336 BCE), unifier of Greece, author of Greece's first federal constitution, founder of the first territorial state with a centralized administrative structure in Europe, forger of the first Western national army, first great general of the Greek imperial age, strategic and tactical genius, and military reformer who revolutionized warfare in Greece and the West, was one of the greatest captains in the military history of the West. Philip prepared the ground, assembled the resources, conceived the strategic vision, and launched the first modern, tactically sophisticated and strategically capable army in Western military history, making the later victories of his son Alexander possible. Philip's death marked the passing of the classical age of Greek history and warfare and the beginning of its imperial age. To Philip belongs the title of the first great general of a new age of warfare in the West, an age that he initiated with his introduction of a new instrument of war, the Macedonian phalanx, and the tactical doctrines to ensure its success. As a practitioner of the political art, Philip also had no equal. In all these things, Philip exceeded Alexander's triumphs. This book establishes Philip's legitimate and deserved place in military history, which, until now, has been largely minimized in favor of his son by the classicist writers who have dominated the field of ancient biography. Richard Gabriel, renowned military historian, has given us the first military biography of Philip II of Macedonia. |
| alexander the great education: Education and Democracy Adam R. Nelson, 2009-01-09 This definitive biography of the charismatic Alexander Meiklejohn tracks his turbulent career as an educational innovator at Brown University, Amherst College, and Wisconsin’s “Experimental College” in the early twentieth century and his later work as a civil libertarian in the Joe McCarthy era. The central question Meiklejohn asked throughout his life’s work remains essential today: How can education teach citizens to be free? |
| alexander the great education: Epitome of the Philippic History of Pompeius Trogus Marcus Junianus Justinus, 1997 This volume presents the first authoritative English translation and scholarly commentary on a little known but important ancient historical source: the 2nd/3rd century Roman historian Justin's epitome or abridged version of the Philippic History by Pompeius Trogus (27 BC-AD 14). This book covers books 11-12 and represents one of the five major sources for historians on the life and times of Alexander the Great. |
| alexander the great education: Philip II, the Father of Alexander the Great Edward M. Anson, 2020-10-01 Philip II was not only the father of Alexander the Great, but in many respects was also the father of his son's incredible career. It was the father who unified Macedonia into the first European nation and who created the army with which his son conquered the Persian Empire and inaugurated the Hellenistic Age. This volume is not the standard biography, but rather an examination of the major controversies concerning his life and reign. How did Philip in roughly twenty years transform a divided territory and little more than a geographical conception into a national state? How did he change the very nature of ancient Western warfare? How did he transform this formerly exploited region into the master of the Greek world? Each chapter discusses one of the major academic controversies surrounding this transformative figure, bringing new clarity to the career of a man whose reputation has been so overshadowed by his illustrious son. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great Richard Stoneman, 2004-09-03 Alexander the Great by Richard Stoneman is an introduction to the career and impact of the great Macedonian conqueror and the main themes of his reign. As well as tackling problems of interpretation, the author includes: an examination of the written and other sources and the problems of working with them discussion of archaeological and numismatic evidence an outline of the Macedonian background insight into Alexander's education and ideas exploration of Alexander's claim to divinity assessment of Alexander's short and long-term achievements a study of his influence in antiquity. |
| alexander the great education: Are Leaders Born or Are They Made? Elisabet Engellau, Manfred F. R. Kets de Vries, 2018-05-20 This book discusses the psychodynamics of leadership-in and relies on concepts of developmental psychology, family systems theory, cognitive theory, dynamic psychiatry, psychotherapy, and psychoanalysis to understand Alexander's behaviour and actions. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great Edward M. Anson, 2013-06-06 A cogent analysis of Alexander the Great's controversial career. |
| alexander the great education: Political History and Economic Policy of the Greek Civilizer Alexander the Great John N. Kallianiotis, 2020-07-13 This book deals with Alexander's the Great (Μέγας Ἀλέξανδρος; 356-323 B.C.) campaign in Asia and measures his revenues and expenses during these wars by taking information from different historians of his time and it uses the current value of gold to translate these measurements inτο U.S. dollar. Alexander had to exercise an efficient and effective public policy (revenue and spending) for his vast Empire and to satisfy all his citizens as a Hellenic civilizer and not as a conqueror. The book examines the Hellenic values, which made Alexander one of the most important people in human history. He was a student of the greatest of philosophers Aristotle (Ἀριστοτέλης) and for this reason he had shown outstanding management and military capabilities used even today my military schools. His efficiencies with rates of salaries, health and welfare, building projects, supplies, transports, reforms of the tax system, indirect taxes and donations, loans, minting of coins; even his dealing with financial scandals and other actions are information useful for our policy makers, today. The book presents also Alexander's contribution to the world as the greatest civilizer and preparer of the ground for the expected Unknown God. Alexander's political history and economic policy is very useful for our current leaders and scholars (historians, political scientist, economists, generals, and others). Further, the current politics of the region are covered to give to the reader a better idea of the true history of the glorious past and the strange (suspicious) conflicts of the present. Finally, some useful information on numismatics (currency, coins, and their values) from his time is given, so we can compare prices, wages, and exchange rates with respect of the U.S. dollar and the Greek drachma. |
| alexander the great education: Alexander the Great William Caper, 2011 |
Alexander the Great - Wikipedia
Alexander III of Macedon (Ancient Greek: Ἀλέξανδρος, romanized: Aléxandros; 20/21 July 356 BC – 10/11 June 323 BC), most …
Alexander the Great | Empire, Death, Map, & Facts | Britannica
Jun 2, 2025 · Alexander the Great was a fearless Macedonian king and military genius, conquered vast territories from Greece to …
Alexander the Great: Empire & Death - HISTORY
Nov 9, 2009 · Alexander the Great was an ancient Macedonian ruler and one of history’s greatest military minds who, as …
Alexander the Great - National Geographic Society
Oct 19, 2023 · Alexander the Great, a Macedonian king, conquered the eastern Mediterranean, Egypt, the Middle East, …
Alexander the Great | History of Alexander the Great
Alexander began first on the Balkan Campaign which was successful in bringing the rest of Greece under Macedonian …
Alexander the Great - Wikipedia
Alexander III of Macedon (Ancient Greek: Ἀλέξανδρος, romanized: Aléxandros; 20/21 July 356 BC – 10/11 June 323 BC), most commonly known …
Alexander the Great | Empire, Death, Map, & Facts | Britann…
Jun 2, 2025 · Alexander the Great was a fearless Macedonian king and military genius, conquered vast territories from Greece to Egypt and India, leaving an …
Alexander the Great: Empire & Death - HISTORY
Nov 9, 2009 · Alexander the Great was an ancient Macedonian ruler and one of history’s greatest military minds who, as King of Macedonia and Persia, …
Alexander the Great - National Geographic Society
Oct 19, 2023 · Alexander the Great, a Macedonian king, conquered the eastern Mediterranean, Egypt, the Middle East, and parts of Asia in a …
Alexander the Great | History of Alexander the Great
Alexander began first on the Balkan Campaign which was successful in bringing the rest of Greece under Macedonian control. Following this …
