In the Path of Conquest: Resistance to Alexander the Great

The book "In the Path of Conquest" offers a fresh perspective on Alexander the Great's conquests by examining the reasons for the varied responses of the defeated populations, debunking long-held views about his motives, and providing a new evaluation of Darius III's successes and failures as a commander. It involves rigorous analysis of ancient sources and presents their testimony in newly translated passages.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 21 November 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

This book offers a fresh perspective on Alexander the Great's conquests by examining the events of 336-323 BCE from the viewpoint of the defeated. The extent and nature of the resistance encountered by the populations he faced varied depending on their prior relationships with the Macedonian invaders or their own Achaemenid rulers. The internal political dynamics of numerous states, particularly the Greek cities of Asia Minor, also played a significant role. Within the vast Persian Empire, which spanned from the Aegean to the Indus, some states submitted voluntarily, while others offered fierce resistance. It is important to note that not all regions were subjugated solely through military means. As the author argues, the excessive use of force by Alexander was often ineffective and counterproductive.

In the Path of Conquest delves into the reasons behind these diverse responses, placing greater emphasis on the defeated and less on the conqueror and his Macedonian army. Through rigorous analysis of ancient sources, the book challenges many long-held views about Alexander's motives, including the notion that his ultimate goal was to reach the eastern boundaries of the world. It also offers a fresh reevaluation of Darius III's achievements and shortcomings as a commander. Such a study involves a meticulous examination of the ancient texts, and their testimony is presented throughout the book in the form of newly translated passages.

In the Path of Conquest presents a unique portrait of a renowned era, and its findings will profoundly alter our understanding of Alexander's career.

Weight: 534g
Dimension: 154 x 237 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197671559