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This book is an intimate portrait of Alexander the Great (356-323), the mighty conqueror who has been described as 'the most famous person in the ancient world after Jesus Christ'. This book reveals Alexander's public and private life in astounding detail--from his self proclamation as pharaoh of all Egypt, to his lifelong relationship with his childhood friend Hephaistion. It draws upon a wealth of art, artifacts, and documents, including letters written by Alexander to his mentor Aristotle and eyewitness accounts of his campaigns handed by his followers. It traces the most fascinating themes of Alexander's extraordinary reign, including his march upon India; his encounters with Greek philosophers, Persian magi, and Hindu holy men; the role of his remarkable mother, Olympias; and his foundation of more than twenty cities spanning most of the known world. It reflects the latest archaeological research and the most up-to-date scholarly conclusions concerning this great conqueror and his astonishing achievements. It also contains more than 150 illustrations, including maps, works of art, and photographs of treasures and artifacts.
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