History of Greece, Volume 12 (of 12)
A historical account written in the late 19th century. This volume marks the culmination of a comprehensive examination of Greek history, focusing particularly on the reign of Alexander the Great, his military campaigns, and the subsequent impact on the Greek world. Grote's work delves into the complex dynamics of Macedonian rule over Greece, the resistance of various city-states, and the deep-seated
About History of Greece, Volume 12 (of 12)
Chapter Summaries
- XCI
- Alexander consolidates his power after Philip's assassination, swiftly suppressing revolts in Thrace and Illyria. His unexpected arrival in Greece leads to the brutal siege and destruction of Thebes, serving as a terrifying warning to other Greek states. Athens, though initially defiant, submits to Alexander's demands.
- XCII
- Alexander prepares for his Persian invasion, assembling a formidable army and fleet. He makes a symbolic visit to Ilium before engaging the Persians at the Battle of the Granikus, securing a decisive victory. This leads to the rapid capture of Sardis, Ephesus, Miletus, and Halikarnassus, and a winter campaign through southern Asia Minor.
- XCIII
- Memnon's naval successes in the Aegean are cut short by his death, prompting Darius to confront Alexander on land. The Battle of Issus results in a decisive Macedonian victory and the capture of Darius's family. Alexander then proceeds to conquer Phenicia, besieging and brutally capturing Tyre, followed by the swift subjugation of Gaza and Egypt, where he founds Alexandria and visits the oracle of Ammon.
Key Themes
- The Decline of Greek Autonomy and Freedom
- This volume meticulously documents the erosion of self-governance among Greek city-states, from their initial dependence on Philip to their complete subjugation under Alexander and the subsequent Diadochi. It highlights the tragic shift from independent polities to appendages of larger empires, culminating in the extinction of genuine Hellenic political freedom.
- The Nature of Despotism and Absolute Power
- The careers of Alexander and Agathokles serve as prime examples of the corrupting influence of unchecked power. Alexander's increasing arrogance, demand for deification, and brutal suppression of dissent, alongside Agathokles's ruthless cunning and massacres, illustrate how absolute authority can lead to tyranny and moral decay, contrasting sharply with earlier Greek ideals of civic governance.
- Military Genius vs. Civic Virtue
- Alexander's unparalleled military skill and strategic brilliance are consistently lauded, yet the narrative implicitly questions whether these qualities, when detached from Hellenic civic values, truly benefit humanity. The book contrasts Alexander's military triumphs with his moral failings, suggesting that conquest without a foundation of justice and respect for freedom is ultimately destructive.
Characters
- Alexander the Great(protagonist)
- The Macedonian king and brilliant military conqueror who absorbed Greece into his vast Persian empire, driven by insatiable ambition and a belief in his divine parentage.
- Darius Codomannus(antagonist)
- The last Great King of Persia, repeatedly defeated by Alexander, ultimately betrayed and assassinated by his own satraps.
- Demosthenes(protagonist)
- Foremost Athenian orator and statesman, a staunch advocate for Greek freedom against Macedonian hegemony, eventually exiled and forced to commit suicide.
- Phokion(supporting)
- Athenian general and statesman, known for his integrity and pragmatic, pro-Macedonian policy, which ultimately led to his condemnation and death by the restored democracy.
- Antipater(supporting)
- Veteran Macedonian general, appointed viceroy of Macedonia by Alexander, responsible for maintaining Macedonian control over Greece and later a key Diadochus.
- Agathokles(protagonist)
- Despot of Syracuse, who rose from humble origins through military prowess and ruthless cunning, known for his brutal consolidation of power and audacious African expedition against Carthage.
