Alexander the Great: General, Leader, God? Curiosity University
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- History
Who was Alexander the Great? Was he a brilliant, ambitious conqueror or a self-obsessed leader who put his men in harm’s way? A divine figure or a god in his own mind? Join award-winning historian Christopher Bellitto to explore this famously complex figure..
Alexander the Great (ca. 356-323 BCE) was a Macedonian general who brought Greek civilization to the edge of modern-day India. After studying the Iliad, he believed himself to be Achilles reincarnated, imitating the hero of the epic poem in his own military campaigns. Even before he died barely into his thirties, the legends surrounding him were larger than life. In this compelling new audio course, you’ll explore the history and lore surrounding this real man and mythic figure, often by consulting the ancient sources themselves.
With Prof. Bellitto, you’ll trace Alexander’s conquests from Macedonia to Asia, assessing his military prowess and leadership skills along the way. You’ll also explore questions about his alleged divinity, his ideas for mixing Greek culture with peoples he overwhelmed, and whether or not he planned to build an empire. Analyzing primary sources as well as context from contemporary historians, you’ll discover wildly different accounts of the same events in Alexander’s life.
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Alexander the Great: Time, Place, and Fascination
Episode 1 of the 15-part podcast, Alexander the Great, published by Learn25.
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Ancient Sources and Modern Questions
Episode 2 of the 15-part podcast, Alexander the Great, published by Learn25.
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Macedonia: The World of Alexander's Youth
Episode 3 of the 15-part podcast, Alexander the Great, published by Learn25.
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A Troubled Family: Philip, Olympias, and Alexander
Episode 4 of the 15-part podcast, Alexander the Great, published by Learn25.
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In Philip’s Shadow: Boyhood and Early Career
Episode 5 of the 15-part podcast, Alexander the Great, published by Learn25.
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Alexander’s Campaigns: The Battles to Babylon
Episode 6 of the 15-part podcast, Alexander the Great, published by Learn25.