An illustrious scholar presents an elegant, concise, and generously
illustrated exploration of Alexander the Great's representations in art
and literature through the ages
John Boardman is one of the world's leading authorities on ancient
Greece, and his acclaimed books command a broad readership. In this
book, he looks beyond the life of Alexander the Great in order to
examine the astonishing range of Alexanders created by generations of
authors, historians, and artists throughout the world--from Scotland to
China.
Alexander's defeat of the Persian Empire in 331 BC captured the popular
imagination, inspiring an endless series of stories and representations
that emerged shortly after his death and continues today. An art
historian and archaeologist, Boardman draws on his deep knowledge of
Alexander and the ancient world to reflect on the most interesting and
emblematic depictions of this towering historical figure.
Some of the stories in this book relate to historical events associated
with Alexander's military career and some to the fantasy that has been
woven around him, and Boardman relates each with his customary verve and
erudition. From Alexander's biographers in ancient Greece to the
illustrated Alexander "Romances" of the Middle Ages to operas, films,
and even modern cartoons, this generously illustrated volume takes
readers on a fascinating cultural journey as it delivers a perfect
pairing of subject and author.
