Genius of Alexander the Great - by N G L Hammond (Paperback)

About the Book

The preeminent scholar of ancient Macedonia separates reliable fact from historical fiction to reveal the true intellect and charm that earned Alexander his epithet.

Book Synopsis

By the time of his death in 323 B.C., Alexander III of Macedonia had built an empire that stretched from the eastern Mediterranean coast through Asia Minor and into the Indus valley. Even before his sudden death, Alexander had achieved mythical status throughout his kingdom, and in the centuries that followed his life became the subject of countless chronicles and biographies.

N. G. L. Hammond, the foremost expert on ancient Macedonian history, here presents a new account of Alexander's fabled career. Based on a thorough analysis of the ancient sources and enriched by a lifetime of research, Hammond's narrative pronounces the Macedonian conqueror a man truly deserving of the title Alexander the Great.

According to Hammond, Alexander was a visionary statesman and general, the force behind a kingdom which rose above racism and nationalism to enjoy peace and prosperity. His intellect and charismatic personality, which earned him the respect, admiration, and devotion of his subjects, also help explain Alexander's endurance as a source of fascination into the present day.

Review Quotes

This is a classic study of one of history's great figures by the scholar who knows the most about him.

"Publishers Weekly", starred review

[A] clearly written book, the distillation of a life's work.

Bernard Knox, "Los Angeles Times Book Review"

ÝA¨ clearly written book, the distillation of a life's work.

Bernard Knox, "Los Angeles Times Book Review"

ÝA¨n exciting book for the general reader.

"Canadian Journal of History"

Amateur military historians will be especially fascinated by the detailed reconstruction of the conqueror's battles, sieges and marches.

"Washington Post Book World"

"[A] clearly written book, the distillation of a life's work.

Bernard Knox, "Los Angeles Times Book Review""

"Amateur military historians will be especially fascinated by the detailed reconstruction of the conqueror's battles, sieges and marches.

"Washington Post Book World""

"This is a classic study of one of history's great figures by the scholar who knows the most about him.

"Publishers Weekly," starred review"

[A]n exciting book for the general reader.

"Canadian Journal of History"

The articulate fashion in which Hammond guides the reader through Alexander's life is outstanding.

"Library Journal"

About the Author

The late N. G. L. Hammond taught Greek at Bristol University and Clare College, Cambridge University. His many books include Alexander the Great: King, Commander, and Statesman and the three-volume A History of Macedonia.