Alexander the Great (Lancaster Pamphlets in Ancient History)

Alexander the Great provides an introduction both to the history of the most renowned conqueror of antiquity and the main themes of his reign. Alexander is among the most difficult of rulers to research, as almost no direct evidence has survived the ravages of time. In response to the scarcity of evidence, Richard Stoneman includes an in-depth examination of written and other sources, revealing the problems of interpreting them. A thorough discussion of archaeological and numismatic evidence, combined with an outline of the Macedonian background, lends insight into Alexander's education, environment and ideas. Drawing on earlier biographies as well as incorporating newly unearthed evidence, Stoneman reveals Alexander as a brilliant and ruthless commander who came to believe in his own myth. An exploration of Alexander's claim to divinity, and an assessment of his short and long-term achievements are also included in this volume.