Penguin Classics: The Campaigns of Alexander - Arrian

The Most Reliable Source on Alexander the Great
Arrian’s The Campaigns of Alexander, translated by Aubrey de Sélincourt and revised by J.R. Hamilton, is the most important historical account of Alexander the Great and his extraordinary conquests. Written over 400 years after Alexander's death, Arrian’s work is an unparalleled study of the man whose ambition and military genius shaped history.

A Glimpse into Alexander’s Empire
Arrian, drawing from his own military experience, chronicles:

The Suppression of Thebes: Alexander's ruthless response to rebellion.
The Defeat of Persia: The campaigns that dismantled one of the ancient world’s greatest empires.
The Eastward Expansion: Alexander’s ventures into Egypt, India, and Babylon, where he founded new cities and destroyed others, leaving an indelible mark on history.
Through Arrian’s objective lens, Alexander emerges as a charismatic and ambitious leader, whose exploits were as astonishing as they were controversial. Worshipped as a god during his lifetime, he was also deeply flawed and profoundly influenced by the temptations of power.

About This Edition
Translation: Aubrey de Sélincourt’s vivid, accessible prose brings Arrian’s work to life for modern readers.
Expert Commentary: J.R. Hamilton’s introduction offers insights into Arrian’s sources, Alexander’s army, and the historical context.
Supplementary Material: Appendices, maps, a detailed index, and further reading lists make this a comprehensive guide to Alexander’s campaigns.
About Arrian
Born in 86 CE, Arrian was a man of many talents, serving as a governor under Emperor Hadrian and later as a chief magistrate in Athens. His military background and classical education uniquely qualified him to write this authoritative history of Alexander.

Why Read This Book?
Arrian’s account is not just a chronicle of conquests but a profound study of leadership, ambition, and the cost of empire-building. If you are intrigued by Alexander’s unparalleled legacy, The Campaigns of Alexander is an essential read.