Alexander the Great: Themes and Issues

Alexander the Great’s life and career are here examined through the major issues surrounding his reign. What were Alexander’s ultimate ambitions? Why did he pursue his own deification while alive? Did he actually set the world in ‘a new groove’ as has been claimed by some scholars? And was his death natural or the result of a murderous conspiracy? Each of the key themes, arranged as chapters, will be presented in approximately chronological order so that readers unfamiliar with the life of Alexander will be able to follow the narrative. The themes are tied to the major controversies and questions surrounding Alexander’s career and legacy. Each chapter includes a discussion of the major academic positions on each issue, and includes a full and up-to-date bibliography and an evaluation of the historical evidence. All source material is in translation. Designed to bring new clarity to the contentious history of Alexander the Great, this is an ideal introduction to one of history’s most controversial figures.