Hellenistic Age: A Very Short Introduction

The three centuries following Alexander's conquests were a period of cultural globalization, with a single language, a Celt in the mercenary army, and a Greek philosopher comparing religions. Kings from Sicily to Tajikistan struggled to rule multi-ethnic states, and Greek city-states formed federal governments. Ptolemaic Alexandria measured the earth's circumference, and Greek argonauts explored the Indian Ocean and Atlantic coast of Africa.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 152 pages
\n Publication date: 22 February 2018
\n Publisher: Oxford University Press
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The three centuries that followed Alexander's conquests are undoubtedly among the most exhilarating eras in ancient history. This period witnessed a remarkable cultural globalization, with a single language spanning from the Rhône to the Indus. Individuals from diverse backgrounds, such as Celts from the lower Danube, could serve in the mercenary army of a Macedonian king ruling in Egypt, while Greek philosophers from Cyprus could compare the religions of the Brahmins and the Jews based on firsthand knowledge of both. Rulers from Sicily to Tajikistan grappled with the complexities of governing multiethnic states, and Greek city-states united under the earliest federal governments known to history. During this time, the scientists of Ptolemaic Alexandria measured the circumference of the earth, while pioneering Greek argonauts explored the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic coast of Africa. In this concise and accessible Very Short Introduction, Peter Thonemann delves into the history and culture of the vast Hellenistic world, spanning from the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BC to the Roman conquest of the Ptolemaic kingdom in 30 BC. Drawing upon a wealth of sources, including inscriptions, papyri, coinage, poetry, art, and archaeology, Thonemann provides a comprehensive overview of this fascinating period. The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press offers hundreds of titles in nearly every subject area, designed to provide concise and informative introductions to new topics. These pocket-sized books are authored by expert scholars who combine facts, analysis, perspective, innovative ideas, and enthusiasm to make complex subjects highly readable and engaging. Whether you're a student, a curious reader, or simply seeking to expand your knowledge, the Very Short Introductions series is an invaluable resource for exploring the rich tapestry of human history and culture.

\n Weight: 120g\n
Dimension: 114 x 174 x 13 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780198746041\n \n