The Anabasis of Alexander by Arrian

Description

The Anabasis of Alexander is a book by Arrian, first written in the early 2nd century CE. It is one of the most detailed and reliable historical accounts of the campaigns of Alexander the Great, chronicling his conquests from Macedonia to the edges of the known world. Arrian, a Greek historian and former Roman official, based his work on sources such as Ptolemy and Aristobulus, both of whom had firsthand knowledge of Alexander’s campaigns. His methodical and military-focused narrative provides a structured, almost strategic overview of the great conqueror’s battles, administration, and interactions with different cultures. Unlike earlier histories that often romanticized Alexander, Arrian’s Anabasis presents a more analytical and factual account, highlighting both the military genius and the flaws of his subject. The book captures key moments such as the battles of Issus and Gaugamela, the crossing of the Gedrosian Desert, and Alexander’s complex relationships with his generals and subjects. Arrian's work has been widely regarded as the most authoritative ancient account of Alexander’s campaigns, influencing later historians and shaping our modern understanding of the Macedonian king’s achievements. The Anabasis of Alexander remains a crucial text for those interested in ancient military history, leadership, and the Hellenistic world. It stands alongside other classical histories as a testament to the ambition, strategy, and consequences of Alexander’s far-reaching conquests. Arrian’s clear and structured writing style makes it accessible even today, offering an invaluable perspective on one of history’s most legendary figures. This translation by E.J. Chinnock was first published in 1884.

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