Alexander The Great and the Creation of the Hellenistic World

Overview

An analytical survey of ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern history from the conquest of the whole of Balkan Greece by Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great, to the emergence of successor kingdoms within Alexander’s conquered territories after his death in 323 BC. After an introduction on sources and methodology, the course proceeds chronologically. Topics receiving special emphasis include: the rise, and the ultimate triumph, of Macedon over the Greek city-states; Alexander’s war against Persia and subsequent conquests; the fragmentation of Alexander’s empire after his death; and events in Sicily and the West (including the expansion of Rome in Italy).

Learning Objectives

To apply objective historical methodology to a period of alleged decline in Greek history.

Skills

Skills of analysis and evaluation, in particular the organization and interpretation of widely scattered and fragmentary source material.

Assessment

None