The Anabasis of Alexander: or, The history of the wars and conquests of Alexander the Great

About this book

Arrian’s Anabasis of Alexander presents a meticulous chronicle of the Macedonian king’s campaigns, beginning with the Persian seizure of Mitylene and the death of their commander Memnon. The narrative swiftly moves through a series of naval and land operations, Pharnabazus’s siege of the island cities, the Persians’ capture of Tenedus, and the strategic maneuvers that bring Alexander to Gordium. From the detailed description of the Gordian wagon and its prophetic cord to the vivid account of Alexander’s illness at Tarsus, the opening sections blend military logistics with local legend, offering a panoramic view of the early phases of the conquest. The text is anchored in the historical subjects of Alexander, Persia, and the regions of Iran and India, providing a factual framework for the unfolding drama of empire‑building.

Written in the sober, report‑like style of a second‑century Roman historian, the work reflects Arrian’s reliance on eyewitness sources such as Aristobulus and Ptolemy. Its language is formal yet accessible, favoring precise description over rhetorical flourish. Readers who enjoy disciplined military history, ancient geopolitical intrigue, or a scholarly glimpse into the classical perception of Alexander’s exploits will find this volume rewarding.

Opening lines

Capture of Mitylene by the Persians.—Death of Memnon. Soon after this, Memnon, whom King Darius had appointed commander of the whole fleet and of the entire sea-coast, with the design of moving the seat of war into Macedonia and Greece, acquired possession of Chios, which was surrendered to him by treachery. Thence he sailed to Lesbos and brought over to his side all the cities of the island, 198 except Mitylene, the inhabitants of which did not submit to him. When he had gained these cities over, he turned his attention to Mitylene; and walling off the city from the rest of the island by constructing a double stockade from sea to sea, he easily got the mastery on the land side by building five camps. …

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