The Campaigns of Alexander (Royal Collector's Edition) (Case Laminate Hardcover with Jacket)

The Campaigns of Alexander stands as a seminal work in the annals of classical literature, providing the most comprehensive account of Alexander the Great's monumental campaigns to conquer the Persian Empire from 336 to 323 BC. Composed in the second century AD during Emperor Hadrian's reign, this historical narrative, complete in seven books, delves into the military strategies and exploits of Alexander, starting from his ascension to the Macedonian throne.

Arrian aimed to provide a meticulous military history, drawing primarily from the contemporary but now-lost accounts of Ptolemy and Aristobulus, and for the latter parts, from Nearchus. His narrative seeks to challenge and correct the prevailing "Vulgate" version of Alexander's reign, thereby offering a more nuanced and perhaps more accurate portrayal of the legendary conqueror's campaigns. Through The Campaigns of Alexander, Arrian not only commemorates Alexander's military genius but also contributes significantly to the understanding of ancient historiography, making his work an invaluable resource for historians and classical scholars alike.

Included are more than 5,000 indexed page numbers and almost 1,000 footnotes. This case laminate collector's edition includes a Victorian inspired dust-jacket.

Arrian of Nicomedia c. 86/89 - c. after 146/160 AD was a Greek historian, public servant, military commander, and philosopher of the Roman period. Born in the provincial capital of Bithynia, Nicomedia (today's İzmit), around the late 1st century AD, Arrian hailed from the Greek provincial aristocracy. His full name, L. Flavius Arrianus, signifies his Roman citizenship, a status that likely traces back to his ancestors around the time of the Roman conquest of the region, approximately 170 years prior to his birth. Arrian's life and career flourished under the patronage of the Roman Empire, with his contributions spanning various fields, including history, philosophy, and military leadership. Arrian's intellectual journey took a significant turn during his time in Epirus, likely at Nicopolis, where he became a pupil of the Stoic philosopher Epictetus. This mentorship profoundly influenced Arrian, leading him to document Epictetus' teachings in the "Encheiridion" (Handbook), thus preserving the essence of Epictetus' philosophy for future generations. Arrian's admiration and scholarly pursuit earned him the nickname "young Xenophon," drawing a parallel to Xenophon's relationship with Socrates. His career in public service saw a notable ascent when Emperor Hadrian, a friend and patron, appointed him to the Roman Senate. Arrian's political and military acumen was further recognized when he was appointed consul suffectus around 130 AD, followed by his role as the prefect or legate of Cappadocia in 132 AD. During his governorship, Arrian demonstrated formidable military leadership by halting the advance of the Alani into Cappadocia, showcasing his strategic prowess and dedication to the stability and security of the Roman provinces.