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Alexander the Great and the Macedonian Empire

By: Kenneth W. Harl, The Great Courses
Narrated by: Kenneth W. Harl
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Summary

Alexander the Great - one of the most renowned figures in antiquity - has inspired everything from medieval romances to blockbuster movies, and military leaders from Julius Caesar to Napoleon to the U.S. general Norman Schwarzkopf. But who was this great king of Macedon? And why is he so legendary?

Go beyond the myth and learn about the man who changed the face of the ancient world and laid the foundation for the great traditions of the Roman Empire - all in fewer than 12 years. These 36 spellbinding lectures take you deep inside the world of Alexander to witness the astonishing feats of military genius that made his name renowned for millennia after his death.

Through this detailed portrait, you'll go beyond the legends and the myths to truly understand what made Alexander great. Along the way, several Alexanders emerge: the military general, Macedonian king, Persian emperor, Egyptian pharaoh, and leader of the Hellenic League. You learn about the many aspects of this extraordinary individual - his passions, extraordinary talents, and the training that helped mold his character. You'll learn how battles were fought and won in the ancient world and examine Alexander's great martial achievements within this larger military history. You'll also head onto the battlefield to analyze some of Alexander's greatest triumphs, including the Battle of the Granicus River and the Battle of the Hydaspes River.

Alexander's empire did not survive beyond his lifetime, but his legacy has cast a long shadow on the history of the West. Join Professor Harl for this journey into the world of Alexander and see how the Western world - and, indeed, our world - still bear the marks of this legendary conqueror.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your My Library section along with the audio.

©2010 The Teaching Company, LLC (P)2010 The Great Courses
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What listeners say about Alexander the Great and the Macedonian Empire

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I’m very keen on this one

I found this to be a very thorough, interesting and well presented exploration of Alexander’s life.

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Fantastic history !

Great narration of this book about the outstanding life and achievements of Alexander Macedon! Well done ! I wholeheartedly recommend this book !

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Phil and Alex conquer the world

This is a very informative series of lectures about the career of Alexander and the later Hellenistic world.

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Fantastic

I loved every minute of this lecture series. I have learned so much it has been wonderful. I have now a great understanding of the life of Alexander the Great. Professor Harl was brilliant and his passion for the subject was palpable. Thank you

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brilliant.

fantastic course as all the great courses are
The lecturer is clear, concise and fun
thoroughly enjoyed this course

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Alexander the Great

This was a good set of lectures particularly the first 80% or so. However the part after Alexander's empire splinters was rather confusing although I think this reflects the nature of what was happening at the time. But the build up was brilliant especially the role of Philip in shaping Alexander.

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A well put together and entertaining narrative of Alexander the Great

If you haven’t listened to this lecture series yet then you should. It is a very well put together look at Alexander the Great and and his legacy in an east to understand and entertaining format.

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Very well presented lectures

What made the experience of listening to Alexander the Great and the Macedonian Empire the most enjoyable?

Easy to listen, follow and understand this complex subject.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Alexander the Great and the Macedonian Empire?

There are many memorable moments, thus too many to choose and write about.

What does Professor Kenneth W. Harl bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you had only read the book?

His commentary is clear and he has a genuine passion for his subject

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

No

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great!

thoroughly enjoyable and in-depth look into the life of the worlds greatest warrior who ever lived

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Another great listen

This is my third Great Courses audio book and they keep getting better.Harl clearly knows his stuff and is able to deliver it in a very entertaining way.The course deals with the pre and post world of Alexander the Great as well as his life and achievements.Of course Alexander the Great is a very controversial character and Harl discusses many of the debates.Excellent listen.

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