Alexander the Great
Alexander the Great
Book Brief
391
Biography • Nonfiction
Ancient Greece • 4th century BC
2011
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Alexander the Great by Philip Freeman narrates the life of Alexander III of Macedon, who, educated by Aristotle and ascending to the throne at nineteen, carved out one of history’s largest empires through relentless military campaigns. The biography delves into his upbringing, ambitions, and conquests, highlighting his complex personality and the tumultuous aftermath of his untimely death at thirty-two.
Informative
Adventurous
Inspirational
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
7,048 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Philip Freeman's Alexander the Great is generally well-received for its engaging narrative and accessibility, making complex historical events comprehensible to general readers. Positive reviews highlight Freeman's vivid storytelling and thorough research. However, some critics note a lack of original analysis, and a few find the portrayal of certain events oversimplified. Overall, it's a compelling and approachable biography for those new to Alexander the Great.
Who Should Read Alexander the Great?
A reader who enjoys Alexander the Great by Philip Freeman is likely to be fascinated by ancient history, military strategy, and biographies of legendary leaders. Fans of Mary Renault’s Fire from Heaven or Robin Lane Fox’s Alexander the Great: A Biography will find Freeman’s engaging narrative and well-researched insights captivating.
7,048 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
In Alexander the Great, Philip Freeman paints a vivid picture of Alexander as a visionary leader whose education by Aristotle significantly influenced his approach to both warfare and governance.
The book highlights an intriguing aspect of Alexander's legacy, noting how his efforts to merge Greek and Persian cultures laid early foundations for a more interconnected ancient world.
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Freeman uniquely emphasizes Alexander's charisma and leadership skills, aspects that were crucial in his ability to unify his diverse and expansive empire.
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391
Biography • Nonfiction
Ancient Greece • 4th century BC
2011
Adult
18+ years
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