A History of Alexander the Great in World Culture

Explores how Alexander the Great has influenced literature, art and culture in Europe and the Middle East over two millennia.

Alexander the Great has for over 2000 years been one of the best recognized names from antiquity. This innovative volume explores the many facets of his legend and reception in literature, art and culture from antiquity to the present, ranging across numerous cultures of Europe and the Middle East.Alexander III of Macedon (356-323 BC) has for over 2000 years been one of the best recognized names from antiquity. He set about creating his own legend in his lifetime, and subsequent writers and political actors developed it. He acquired the surname 'Great' by the Roman period, and the Alexander Romance transmitted his legendary biography to every language of medieval Europe and the Middle East. As well as an adventurer who sought the secret of immortality and discussed the purpose of life with the naked sages of India, he became a model for military achievement as well as a religious prophet bringing Christianity (in the Crusades) and Islam (in the Qur'an and beyond) to the regions he conquered. This innovative and fascinating volume explores these and many other facets of his reception in various cultures around the world, right up to the present and his role in gay activism.