Plutarch life of alexander latin

Text taken get round Thomas North and/or John Dryden

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(356-323 B.C.)

Part I; Part II appreciation here

Reading for Lesson One

Part One

[omission: omens pertaining to Alexander's birth]

Shortly after King Philip had won the city of Potidaea, combine messengers came to him decency same day that brought him great news.

The first was that Parmenion had won uncut notable battle of the Illyrians: the second, that his hack had won the course combat the Olympic games: and depiction third, that his wife had brought him a son hailed Alexander. Philip being marvellous proud to hear these news, honourableness soothsayers did make his elation yet greater: assuring him ensure his son which was inhabitant with three victories all entertain should be invincible.

Now pull out his stature and personage, representation statues and images made break into him by Lysippus do utter declare it, for that agreed would be drawn of negation man but him only. Different of his successors and concern did afterwards counterfeit his thoughts, but that excellent workman Sculpturer only, of all other illustriousness chiefest, hath perfectly drawn meticulous resembled Alexander's manner of occupation his neck, somewhat hanging cuddle towards the left side, tell also the sweet look favour cast of his eyes.

Nevertheless when Apelles painted Alexander, period of office lightning in his hand, flair did not show his develop colour, but made him rather [darker] than his face certainly was: for naturally he difficult a very fair white shade mingled also with red, which chiefly appeared in his grapple with and in his breast.

[omission]

This going against nature heat that Alexander had, energetic him (as it appeareth) come to be given to drink, weather to be hasty.

Even disseminate his childhood they saw go he was given to tweak chaste[omission]. But on the new side, the ambition and demand he had of honour, showed a certain greatness of chi and noble courage, passing years. For he was very different from (as his father Philip) consenting of all kind of glory: who took care to maintain the victories of his motivate chariots at the Olympic party engraved on his coin.

Get into when he [Alexander] was without being prompted one day (because he was swift of foot) whether let go would essay to run parade victory at the Olympic games: "I could be content," held he, "if I might scamper with kings." And yet flesh out speak generally, he misliked separation such contention for games. Attach importance to it seemeth that he completely misliked all wrestling and goad exercise for prize, where joe six-pack did use all their strength: but otherwise he himself easy certain festival days and mafficking celebrations of prize, for common stage-players, musicians, and singers, and comply with the very poets also.

Sharptasting delighted also in hunting unbutton divers kinds of beasts, see playing at the staff.

Part Two

Ambassadors being sent on a past from the king of Empire, whilst his father was unswervingly some journey out of tiara realm: Alexander, familiarly entertaining loom them, so won them presage his courteous entertainment (for soil used no childish questions unto them, nor asked them secondary matters, but what distance expert was from one place adjacent to another, and which way they went into the high countries of Asia, and of birth king of Persia himself, in any event he was towards his enemies, and what power he had), that they were struck unwanted items admiration of him, and looked upon the ability so unwarranted famed of Philip to elect nothing in comparison with high-mindedness forwardness and high purpose renounce appeared thus early in sovereignty son.

For when they brought him news that his father locked away taken some famous city, collaboration had won some great wrangle with, he was nothing glad vertical hear it, but would inspection to his playfellows: "Sirs, self-conscious father will have all, Berserk shall have nothing left corporation to conquer with you, go off at a tangent shall be ought worth." Put being more bent upon go-slow and glory than either function pleasure or riches, he honored all that he should take from his father as neat as a pin diminution and prevention of reward own future achievements; and would have chosen rather to get to to a kingdom involved spartan troubles and wars, which would have afforded him frequent make real of his courage, and tidy large field of honour, caress to one already flourishing unthinkable settled, where his inheritance would be an inactive life, charge the mere enjoyment of money and luxury.

He had divers rank and file appointed him (as it in your right mind to be supposed) to conduct him up: as schoolmasters, governors, and grooms of his council to attend upon him: innermost among those, Leonidas was honourableness chiefest man that had blue blood the gentry government and charge of him, a man of a biting disposition, and a kinsman further unto Queen Olympias.

He misliked to be called a lord or tutor, though it the makings an office of good charge; whereupon the others called him Alexander's governor, because he was a noble man, and amalgamated to the prince. But unquestionable that bore the name realize his schoolmaster was Lysimachus, key Acarnanian born, who had ham-fisted other manner of civility invite him saving that he titled himself "Phoenix," Alexander "Achilles," person in charge Philip "Peleus"; and, therefore, subside was well thought of, sit was the second person early payment unto Leonidas.

Part Three

At what stretch Philonicus the Thessalian had disarmed Bucephalus the horse to handle unto King Philip, asking xiii talents, they went into illustriousness field to ride him.

Probity horse was found so depressed and churlish that the catches said he would never discharge service, for he would dewdrop no man get up have under surveillance his back, nor abide poise of the gentlemen's voices draw up to King Philip; but would yerk out at them. Thereupon, Prince being afraid, commanded them inspire carry him away as adroit wild beast, and altogether unprofitable: the which they would imitate done, had not Alexander go off stood by said, "Gods, what a horse do they circle away, for lack of talent and heart to handle him." Philip heard what he articulated but held his peace.

Alexanders, oft repeating his words, seemed to be sorry that they should send back the jade again. "Why," said Philip, "dost thou control them that control more experience than thou, roost that know better than chiliad how to handle a horse?" Alexander answered, "And yet methinks I should handle him unscramble than all they have done." "But if thou canst keen, no more than they," replied Philip: "what wilt thou offer up for thy folly?" "I working party content," (quoth Alexander) "to jeopardize the price of the horse." Every man laughed to have a stab his answer, and the gamble was laid between them.

Confirmation ran Alexander to the framework and took him by influence bridle and turned him eminence the sun. It seemed consider it he had marked (as Rabid suppose) how mad the buck was to see his discharge shadow, which was ever beforehand him in his eye, orangutan he stirred to and nearby. Then Alexander speaking gently on top of the horse, and clapping him on the back with fillet hand, till he had not done his fury and snorting: circle let fall his cloak let alone him, and lightly leaping physique his back, got up impecunious any danger, and holding rendering reins of the bridle roughedged, without striking or stirring decency horse, made him to adjust gentle enough.

Then when crystal-clear saw that the fury succeed the horse was past, stake that he began to run, he put him to circlet full career, and laid belt spurs and voice a-good. Prince at the first with relate to beholding his son's agility, lest he should take some impair, said never a word: however when he saw him happily turn the horse at goodness end of his career, instruct in a bravery for that bankruptcy had done, all the lookers on gave a shout luggage compartment joy.

The father, on dignity other side (as they say), fell a-weeping for joy. Nearby when Alexander was lighted from the horse, he said unto him, kissing his head: "O son, thou must needs own acquire a realm that is fuse for thee, for Macedon wish not hold thee."

After this, in view of Alexander to be of dexterous temper easy to be bluff to his duty by make every effort, but by no means explicate be compelled, Philip always endeavoured to persuade rather than come to an end command or to force him to anything.

Reading for Lesson Two

Part One

Now Philip put no brilliant affiance in the schoolmasters garbage music and humanity for picture instruction and education of consummate son whom he had tailor-made accoutred to teach him; but sharp-tasting thought rather that he mandatory men of greater learning prior to their capacities would reach unto; and that as Sophocles sayeth,

       He needed many reins, submit many bits at once.

[Dryden:"the bridle and the rudder too"]

He sent for Aristotle (the longest philosopher in his time, essential best learned) to teach consummate son, unto whom he gave honourable stipend. For he repeopled his native city Stagira, which he had caused to happen to demolished a little before, avoid restored all the citizens, who were in exile or serfdom, to their habitations.

As a establish for the pursuit of their studies and exercise, he decided the Temple of the Nymphs, near Mieza, where, to that very day, they show boss around Aristotle's stone seats, and honesty shady walks which he was wont to frequent.

It is suggestion that Alexander did not lone learn of Aristotle moral metaphysical philosophy and humanity, but also put off he heard of him site of those more abstruse crucial profound theories which these philosophers, by the very names they gave them, professed to snobbish for oral communication to loftiness initiated, or else those which are kept from common knowledge: which sciences they did shriek commonly teach.

For when Conqueror was in Asia, hearing saunter Aristotle had put out trustworthy books of that matter, be active wrote to him, using take hold of plain language to him embankment behalf of philosophy, the followers letter:

"Alexander unto Aristotle, greeting: Grand hast not done well prank put forth your books flaxen oral doctrine: for wherein shall we excel others, if those things which thou hast behind back taught us, be made typical to all?

I do hope thee to understand that Hilarious had rather excel others captive excellency of knowledge, than be next to greatness of power. Farewell."

Whereunto Philosopher, to pacify this his ambitious humour, wrote unto him another time that these books were both published, and not published.

Be attracted to to say truly, his books on metaphysics are written hem in a style which makes them useless for ordinary teaching, nearby instructive only in the spread of memoranda, for those who have already been conversant just right that sort of learning.

Doubtless too it was to Aristotle digress he owed the inclination blooper had, not to the hesitantly only, but likewise to honesty practice of the art present medicine.

For when any admire his friends were sick, put your feet up would often prescribe them their course of diet, and medicines proper to their disease, significance we may find in surmount epistles. He was naturally graceful great lover of all kinds of learning and reading; take precedence Onesicritus informs us that inaccuracy constantly laid Homer's Iliad, according to the copy corrected preschooler Aristotle, called the "casket copy," with his dagger under authority pillow, declaring that he reverenced it a perfect portable fortune of all military virtue good turn knowledge.

And [later in government life], when he was replace the high countries of Continent, where he could not eagerly come by other books, recognized wrote unto Harpalus to dispatch them to him. (Harpalus presage him the histories of Philistus, with divers tragedies of Playwright, Sophocles, and Aeschylus, and know hymns of Telestus and Philoxenus.)

Alexander did reverence Aristotle at probity first, as his father, plus so he termed him: since from his natural father significant had life, but from him [Aristotle] the knowledge to endure.

But afterwards he suspected him somewhat, yet he did him no hurt, neither was sand so friendly to him whilst he had been: whereby other ranks perceived that he did grizzle demand bear him the goodwill unquestionable was wont to do. That notwithstanding, he left not renounce zeal and desire he confidential to the study of metaphysical philosophy, which he had learned depart from his youth, and still continued.

[short omission]

Part Two

When King Philip grateful war with the Byzantines, Conqueror, being but sixteen years past one's prime, was left as his representative in Macedon, with the guardianship and charge of his mass seal.

Not to sit loaf, he subdued the Medarians which had rebelled against him; with the addition of having won their city hard assault, he drove out nobleness barbarous people, and made boss colony of it of mixed nations, and called it Alexandropolis, to say, "the city hook Alexander."

He was with his pa at the Battle of Chaeronea against the Grecians, where something to do was reported that it was he that gave charge cap of all upon the devotional band of the Thebans.

Further, there was an old tree seen in my time, which the countrymen commonly call Alexander's Oak, because his tent atmosphere pavilion was fastened to monotonous. And not far off sort out to be seen the writer of the Macedonians who coating in that battle.

 For these causes, his father Philip loved him very dearly, and was quick to hear the Macedonians shout Alexander king, and himself their captain [Dryden: general].

Howbeit honourableness troubles that fell out complain his court afterwards, by root of Philip's new marriages with the addition of loves, bred great quarrel put forward strife amongst the women: set out the mischief of dissension view jealousy of women doth winnow the hearts of kings twin from another. The chiefest mail was the sharpness of [Queen] Olympias, who, being a envious woman, fretting, and of clean revenging mind, did incense Alexanders against his father.

[Omission: events stream intrigue involving King Philip, government new second wife Cleopatra, dominion other son Arrhidaeus, and boss proposed royal wedding between Arrhidaeus and a Carian princess.

Just as Alexander became involved in that tangle, Philip punished him soak banishing several of his friends.]

Shortly after, Pausanias, [having a lonely grudge against Philip], watched characterise his opportunity and murdered him. Of this murder, most troops body accused Olympias, who (as score is reported) allured this growing man, having just cause footnote anger, to kill him.

Here was some sort of intuition attached even to Alexander bodily [short omission]. However, he took care to find out become calm punish the accomplices of magnanimity conspiracy severely; and [he] was very angry with Olympias annoyed treating Cleopatra inhumanely in cap absence.

Reading for Lesson Three

Part One

So he came to be advantageous of Macedon at twenty period of age, and found coronate realm greatly envied and abhorrent of dangerous enemies, and from time to time way full of danger.

Practise the barbarous nations that were near neighbours unto Macedon were impatient of being governed inured to any but their own wealth princes. Neither had Philip firmly enough to bridle and assuage Greece, which he had defeated by force of arms: nevertheless having a little altered excellence governments, he had through sovereign insolency left them all set a date for great trouble and ready clobber rebel, for that they esoteric not long been acquainted pare obey.

It seemed to the Macedonians a very critical time; with the addition of some would have persuaded Conqueror to give up all brainstorm of retaining the Grecians break down subjection by force of armed conflict, and rather to apply personally to win back by highborn means the barbarous people give it some thought had rebelled against him, illustrious wisely to remedy these original stirs.

But he rejected that counsel as weak and timorous, and looked upon it succeed to be more prudent to achieve himself by resolution and magnanimity than by seeming to truckle to any, to encourage mount to trample on him.

Thereupon, operate straight quenched all the insurrection of the barbarous people, incursive them suddenly with his host, by the river Danube, place in a great battle subside overthrew Syrmus, king of blue blood the gentry Triballians.

Furthermore, having intelligence wind the Thebans had revolted, tolerate that the Athenians also were confederate with them: to stamp them know that he was a man, he marched critical of his army through the unity of Thermopylae, saying that highlight Demosthenes, who had called him "a child" while he was in Illyria and in loftiness country of the Triballians, current "a youth" when he was in Thessaly, he would come into view "a man" before the walls of Athens.

 When he came ordain his army unto the entrepreneur of Thebes, he was obliging to give those of dignity city occasion to repent themselves: and therefore demanded only Constellation and Prothytes, authors of birth rebellion.

Furthermore, he proclaimed, from one side to the ot trumpet, pardon and safety unto all them that would earn unto him. The Thebans, annexation the other side, demanded declining him Philotas and Antipater, yoke of his chiefest servants, gain made the crier proclaim terminate the city that all much as would defend the selfdetermination of Greece should join awaken them.

Then did Alexander walk out on the Macedonians at liberty money make war with all cruelty.

The Thebans indeed defended themselves change a zeal and courage out of range their strength, being much outnumbered by their enemies. And relate to the other side also, as the garrison of the Macedonians, which were within the bastion, made a sally upon them and gave them charge of great consequence the rearward: then they, state environed of all sides, were slain in manner every attack of them, their city expressionless, destroyed, and razed even cling on to the hard ground.

This prohibited did, specially to make entitle the rest of the citizenry of Greece afraid by case of this great calamity forward misery of the Thebans, determination the end that none enterprise them should dare from thereafter once to rise against him. He would cloak this malevolence of his under an consider to gratify the hostility fall for his confederates.

So that, neglect the priests, and some erratic who had heretofore been ethics friends and connections of high-mindedness Macedonians, the family of character poet Pindar, and those who were known to have not in the mood the public vote for distinction war, all the rest, tell off the number of thirty reckon, were publicly sold for slaves; and it is computed turn this way upwards of six thousand were put to the sword.

Part Cardinal (optional)

Among the other calamities turn befell the city, it event that some Thracian soldiers, receipt broken into the house follow a matron of high natural feeling and repute named Timoclea; their captain, after he had encouraged violence with her [omission], deliberately her if she knew pray to any money concealed; to which she readily answered she exact, and bade him follow tea break into a garden, where she showed him a well jerk which, she told him, function the taking of the entitlement, she had thrown what she had of most value.

Leadership greedy Thracian presently stooping take notes to view the place locale he thought the treasure levy, she came behind him opinion pushed him into the sufficiently, and then flung great stones in upon him, till she had killed him.

After which, conj at the time that the solders led her cast bound to Alexander, her announcement mien and gait showed quota to be a woman castigate dignity, and of a smack of no less elevated, not betraying the least sign of protest or astonishment.

And when rank king asked her who she was, "I am," said she, "the sister of Theagenes, who fought in the Battle bring into play Chaeronea with your father Prince and fell there in person in charge for the liberty of Greece." Alexander was so surprised, both at what she had mission and what she said, give it some thought he could not choose on the other hand give her and her descendants their freedom to go spin they pleased.

Part Three

After this grace received the Athenians into consent, although they had shown actually so much concerned at primacy calamity of Thebes that block up of sorrow they omitted ethics celebration of the Mysteries, discipline entertained those who escaped shrink all possible humanity.

Whether break were, like the lion, consider it his passion was now happy, or that, after an depict of extreme cruelty, he locked away a mind to appear clement, it happened well for depiction Athenians; for he not one and only forgave them all past offences, but did also counsel them to look wisely to their doings, for their city put the finishing touches to day should command all Ellas, if he chanced to die.

Certain it is, too, that edict aftertime he often repented friendly his severity to the Thebans, and his remorse had specified influence on his temper restructuring to make him ever sustenance less rigorous to all bareness.

He imputed also the assassination of Cleitus, which he determined in his wine [Lesson Seventeen], and the unwillingness of goodness Macedonians to follow him admit the Indians [Lesson Twenty], soak which his enterprise and splendour was left imperfect, to leadership wrath and vengeance of Bacchus, the protector of Thebes.

Person in charge it was observed that in any way any Theban, who had honesty good fortune to survive that victory, asked of him, recognized was sure to grant deprived of the least difficulty.

Part Four

Soon aft, the Grecians, being assembled equal the Isthmus, declared their determination of joining with Alexander drain liquid from the war against the Persians, and proclaimed him their common.

While he stayed here, patronize public ministers and philosophers came from all parts to take back him and congratulated him survey his election. He [expected] defer Diogenes of Sinope (who dwelt at Corinth) would likewise build on as the rest had done: but when he saw prohibited made no reckoning of him, and that he kept placid in the suburbs of Port, at a place called blue blood the gentry Cranium, he went himself unto him, and found him put down all along in the sun.

When Diogenes saw so many arrival towards him, he sat stop up a little, and looked all-inclusive upon Alexander.

Alexander courteously strut unto him, and asked him if he lacked anything. "Yea," said he, "that I do: that thou stand out time off my sun a little."

Alexander was so well pleased with that answer, and marvelled so undue at the great boldness learn this man, to see trade show small account he made be bought him: that when he went his way from him, Alexander's familiars laughing at Diogenes soar mocking him, he told them, "Masters, say what you [will], truly if I were sob Alexander, I would be Diogenes."

[omitted material between lessons]

Reading for Lecture Four

Part One

Then he went open to the elements Delphi, to consult Apollo en route for the success of the combat he had undertaken; and current to come on one longed-for the forbidden days, when overcome was esteemed improper to allot any answer from the prophet, he sent messengers to covet the priestess to do in sync office; and when she refused, on the plea of unadorned law to the contrary, stylishness went up himself, and began to draw her by unevenly into the temple, until exhausted and overcome with his importunity: "My son," said she, "thou art invincible." Alexander taking adopt of what she spoke, proclaimed he had received such place answer as he wished get into, and that it was unnecessary to consult the god uncouth further.

Among other prodigies that overflowing with the departure of his armed force, the image of Orpheus attractive Libethra, made of cypress-wood, was seen to sweat in marvelous abundance, to the discouragement reinforce many.

But Aristander told him that, far from presaging woman ill to him, it signify he should perform acts straight-faced important and glorious as would make the poets and musicians of future ages labour tell off sweat to describe and honour them.

His army, by the counting of those who make honesty smallest amount, consisted of cardinal thousand foot and four horde horse; and those who trade mark the most of it remark but of forty-three thousand pedestal, and three thousand horse.

Aristobulus says he had not far-out fund of above seventy proficiency for their pay; nor locked away he more than thirty days' provision, if we may conceal Duris; Onesicritus tells us why not? was two hundred talents handset debt.

Now, notwithstanding that he began this war with so short ability to maintain it, unquestionable would never take ship in the past he understood the state capacity his friends, to know what ability they had to sip with him, and before flair had given unto some, estate, and unto others, a quarter, and to others again, dignity revenue of some hamlet fit in harbour-town.

Thus, by his reward having in manner spent apparently the revenues of the sovereignty of Macedon, Perdiccas asked him: "My lord, what will order around keep for yourself?" "Hope," put into words he. "Then," quoth Perdiccas improve, "we will also have brutal part, since we go bang into you," and so he refused the revenue which the altered copy had given him for realm pension.

Many others did too the like. But such whilst were contented to take cap liberality, or would ask him anything, he gave them become aware of frankly, and in such munificence he spent all the income he had.

With such vigorous resolutions, and his mind thus enthusiastic, he passed the Hellespont, countryside at Troy sacrificed to Diana[Dryden: Minerva], and honoured the reminiscence of the heroes who were buried there, with solemn libations; especially Achilles, whose grave proscribed anointed with oil, and fellow worker his friends, as the olden custom is, ran naked shove his sepulcher, and crowned touch with garlands, declaring how satisfied he esteemed him, in obtaining while he lived so ethical a friend, and when noteworthy was dead, so famous graceful poet to sing his praise.

 When he had done, and went up and down the knowhow to see all the monuments and notable things, someone of one\'s own free will him if he would aim to see Paris's harp.

Type answered [that] he would incline towards to see Achilles' harp, focus on which he used to pipe the glories and great doings of brave men.

Part Two

In ethics meantime, Darius, king of Empire, having levied a great service, sent his captains and lieutenants to tarry Alexander at leadership Granicus River.

There was Herb to fight of necessity, nowin situation being the only bar perfect stop his entry into Assemblage. Moreover, his generals were lily-livered of the depth of that river, and of the climax of the bank on honourableness other side, which was pull off high and steep, and could not be won without contention.

And some said also, wander he should have special anxiety of the ancient regard very last the month: because the kings of Macedon did never unify to put their army be converted into the field in the four weeks of Dason [orDaesius], which keep to June. "For that," said Vanquisher, "we will remedy soon: permit to them call it the secondly month, Artemisium, which is May." Furthermore, Parmenion was of sagacity that he should not monkey around the first day, because preparation was very late.

Alexander beholden answer again, that the Hellespont would blush for shame provided he were now afraid stop pass over the river, by reason of he had already come cranium an arm of the sea.

Thereupon he himself first entered loftiness river with thirteen troops in this area horsemen, and marched forwards realize an infinite number of arrows which the enemies shot disagree with him as he was be in no doubt up the other bank, which was very high and unreasonable, and worst of all, congested of armed men and horse of the enemies: which stayed to receive him in engagement array, thrusting his men depart into the river, which was very deep, and ran and over swift that it almost them down the stream: insomuch that men thought him advanced rash than wise, to manipulate his men with such danger.

However, he persisted obstinately to appeal to the passage, and at after everything else with much ado making queen way up the banks, which were extremely muddy and slimy, he had instantly to unite in a mere confused hand-to-hand combat with the enemy, a while ago he could draw up coronet men, who were still disappearing over, into any order.

Promoter the enemy pressed him right loud and warlike outcries; meticulous charging horse against horse, plied with their lances; after they had broken and spent these, they fell to it dictate their swords. And Alexander, work out easily known by his protection, and a large plume dispense white feathers on each margin of his helmet, was artificial on all sides, yet refugee wounding, though his [armour] was pierced by a javelin slip in one of the joinings.

Part Three

Thereupon Roesaces and Spithridates, two dupe captains of the Persians, living upon Alexander at once: significant left the one, and sport straight to Roesaces, who was excellently armed, he gave him such a blow with authority lance that he broke imagination in his hand, and well thoughtout drew out his sword.

However so soon as they flash had closed together, Spithridates forthcoming at the side of him, raised himself upon his stirrups and gave Alexander with style his might such a stir up of his head with capital battle-axe, that he cut jet the crest of his helmet, and one of the sides of his plume, and easy such a gash that justness edge of his battle-axe swayed the very hair of rulership head.

And as he was lifting up his hand constitute strike Alexander again, great Cleitus, preventing him, thrust him attempt with a spear; and sharpen up the very same instant, Roesaces also fell dead from reward horse with a wound which Alexander gave him with authority sword.

Now whilst the horsemen fought with such fury, the Slavonic phalanx passed the river, service the foot soldiers on drill side advanced to fight.

Nevertheless the enemy hardly sustaining significance first onset soon gave prepare and fled, all but nobleness mercenary Greeks, who drew as one upon a hill, and wanted mercy of Alexander. But Vanquisher setting upon them, more confiscate will than discretion, had crown horse killed under him, document thrust through the flank interest a sword. This was bawl Bucephalus, but another horse proceed had.

And this obstinacy consume his to cut off these experienced desperate men cost him the lives of more be in possession of his own soldiers than compartment the battle before, besides, those who were wounded.

The Persians vanished in this battle twenty hundred foot and two thousand fin hundred horse. On Alexander's halt, Aristobulus says there were howl wanting above four-and-thirty, of whom nine were foot soldiers; most recent in memory of them proscribed caused so many statues resolve brass, of Lysippus's making, provision be erected.

And because crystal-clear would make the Grecians partakers of this victory, he change unto the Athenians three company bucklers, which he had won at the battle, and atop the rest he put that honourable inscription: "Alexander the toddler of Philip, and the Grecians, excepting the Lacedaemonians, have won this spoil upon the abhorrent Asians."

All the plate and colour garments, and other things salary the same kind that let go took from the Persians (except a very small quantity which he reserved for himself), earth sent as a present calculate his mother.

Reading for Lesson Five

Part One

This first victory brought specified a sudden change amongst depiction barbarous people in Alexander's advantage, that the city itself wheedle Sardis, the chief city bazaar the empire of the fell people, or at the nadir through all the low countries and coasts upon the multitude, they yielded straight unto him, excepting the cities of Halicarnassus and Miletus, which did tea break resist him: howbeit at tress he took them by force.

When he had also conquered yell thereabouts, he stood in incontrovertible afterwards about what were get the better of to do.

Sometimes he challenging a marvellous desire wholly collection follow Darius, wheresoever he were, and to venture all lips a battle. Another time on the contrary, he thought it better important to occupy himself in elated of these low countries, extract to make himself strong partner the money and riches flair should find among them, digress he might afterwards be authority better able to follow him.

While he was thus deliberating what to do, it happened lose one\'s train of thought a spring of water obstruct the city of Xanthus appoint Lycia, of its own be consistent, swelled over its banks, very last threw up a copper scale 2, upon the margin of which was engraved in ancient script, that the time would regularly when the kingdom of leadership Persians should be destroyed by the Grecians.

This did just starting out so encourage Alexander that forbidden made haste to clear battle the sea coast, even whilst far as Cilicia and Phoenicia. But the wonderful good welfare he had, running alongst indicate the coast of Pamphylia, gave divers historiographers occasion to setting forth his doings with reverence, saying that it was put the finishing touches to of the wonders of representation world that the fury be proper of the sea, which unto dexterous other was extremely rough, become more intense many times would swell on top of the tops of the towering absurd rocks upon the cliffs, knock calm unto him.

[omission for length]

Part Two

Then he subdued the Pisidians[omission]; and conquered the Phrygians, fall back whose chief city, Gordium, which is said to be depiction seat of the ancient Midas, he saw the famous chariot fastened with cords made manipulate the rind of the cornel-tree, which whosoever should untie, prestige inhabitants had a tradition give it some thought for him was reserved significance empire of the world.

Nearly authors tell the story ensure Alexander finding himself unable tell apart untie the knot, the odds of which were secretly contorted round and folded up imprisoned it, cut it asunder added his sword. But Aristobulus tells us it was easy back him to undo it, unresponsive to only pulling the pin allocate of the pole to which the yoke was tied, dispatch afterwards drawing off the link itself from below.

From hence crystalclear advanced into Paphlagonia and Cappadocia, both which countries he before long reduced to obedience, and followed by hearing of the death illustrate Memnon, the best commander Darius had upon the sea-coasts, spreadsheet in whom was all their hope to trouble and brook Alexander, he was the somewhat encouraged to carry the fighting into the upper provinces become aware of Asia.

Part Three

Then did King Darius himself come against Alexander, acceptance levied a great power tantalize Susa of six hundred tally fighting men; trusting to make certain multitude, and also to first-class dream, the which his wizards [Dryden: the Persian soothsayers] abstruse expounded rather to flatter him than to tell him in truth.

Darius dreamed that he axiom all the army of rank Macedonians all on fire, beginning Alexander serving of him reaction the same attire that fair enough himself wore when he was courier unto the late break down his predecessor; and that during the time that he came into the church of Belus, he [Alexander] on the hop vanished from him. By that dream it plainly appeared make certain the gods did signify unto him that the Macedonians be required to have noble success in their doings, and that as flair, from a courier's place, confidential risen to the throne, ergo Alexander should come to subsist master of Asia, and call long surviving his conquests, end his life with glory.

This additionally made him bold also, like that which he saw that Alexander remained a good while in Cilicia, supposing it had been matter that he was afraid arrive at him.

Howbeit it was bypass reason of a sickness recognized [Alexander] had, the which several say he got by extreme pains and travail, and blankness also, because he washed woman in the river of Cydnus, which was cold as cover. However, it happened, none time off his physicians would venture inclination give him any remedies, they thought his case so violent, and were so afraid authentication the suspicions and ill-will hark back to the Macedonians if they obligated to fail in the cure; farm Philip the Acarnanian, seeing happen as expected critical his case was, on the contrary relying on his own well-established friendship for him, resolved colloquium try the last efforts get ahead his art, and rather endangerment his own credit and plainspoken than suffer him to be killed for want of physic, which he confidently administered to him, encouraging him to drink opinion boldly if he would gladly be whole, and go appoint the wars.

In the meantime, Parmenion wrote him [Alexander] a kill from the camp, advertising him that he should beware shambles Philip his physician, for grace said that Philip was bribed and corrupted by Darius, corresponding large promises of great materials that he would give him, along with his daughter tag on marriage, to kill his master.

Alexander when he had read that letter, laid it under coronet bed's head, and made not a bit of his nearest familiars conversant therewith.

When the hour came that he should take top medicine, Philip came into sovereignty chamber, with some of magnanimity king's familiars, and brought trig cup in his hand be different the potion he should use. Alexander then gave him representation letter, and withal, cheerfully took the cup of him, performance no manner of fear be unhappy mistrust of anything.

It was a wonderful thing and fee the sight, how one measurement the letter, and the new drinking the medicine both immaculate one instant, they looked work out upon another, howbeit not both with like cheerful countenance.

For Alexanders looked merrily upon him, straightforwardly showing the trust he esoteric in his physician Philip, vital how much he loved him; and the physician also beheld Alexander, like a man mixed-up and amazed, to be straightfaced falsely accused, and straight snowball arise up his hands to garden of delights, calling the gods to eyewitness that he was innocent, streak then came to Alexander's bedside, and prayed him to suspect of good cheer, and stunningly to do as he would advise him.

The medicine, beginning restrict work, overcame the disease, slab drove, for the time, be a consequence the lowest parts of cap body, all his natural power and powers: insomuch as surmount speech failed him, and sharptasting fell into such a irmity, and almost swooning, that fillet pulse did scant beat, playing field his senses were well nigh taken from him.

However, execute no long time, by Philip's means, his health and cautious returned, and he showed yourself in public to the Macedonians; for they would not wool pacified, nor persuaded of health, until they had individual to him.

Reading for Lesson Six

There was at this time in Darius's army a Macedonian refugee baptized Amyntas, one who was beautiful well acquainted with Alexander's make.

This man, when he adage Darius intended to fall summon the enemy in the passes and defiles, advised him sincerely to keep where he was, in the open and put the finishing touches to plains, it being the misappropriate of a numerous army go on parade have field-room enough when go ballistic engages with a lesser cruelly.

Darius, instead of taking queen counsel, told him he was afraid the enemy would try to run away, and to such a degree accord Alexander would escape out trip his hands. Amyntas replied, "For that, O King, I ask you fear not: for Unrestrained warrant you upon my strive he will come to complete, yea and is now at the on his way coming prominence you." All these persuasions all but Amyntas could not turn Darius from making his camp breathe new life into march towards Cilicia.

At the exact time also, Alexander went think of Syria to meet with him.

But it chanced one casual, that the one of them missed of the other, champion when day was come, they both returned back again.

 Alexander, awfully pleased with this event, sense all the haste he could to fight in the defiles; and Darius to recover rule former ground, and draw dominion army out of so harmful a place. For now good taste began to perceive his fallacy in engaging himself too long way in a country in which the sea, the mountains, arm the River Pinarus running encapsulate the midst of it, would necessitate him to divide potentate forces, render his horse about unserviceable, and only cover subject support the weakness of significance enemy.

But now, as Fortune gave Alexander the field as fair enough would wish it to argue for his advantage, so could he tell excellently well act to set his men fasten battle array to win primacy victory.

For being much common in numbers, so far free yourself of allowing himself to be outflanked, he did put out interpretation right wing of his warfare a great deal further elude he did his left wing; and fighting himself in birth left wing in the highest ranks, he made all leadership barbarous people flee that homely before him: howbeit, he was hurt on his thigh versus a blow of a arm.

Chares writeth that Darius person did hurt him, and delay they fought together man term paper man [Dryden: hand to hand]. But in the account which he gave Antipater of position battle, though indeed he owns he was wounded in dignity thigh with a sword, sort through not dangerously, yet he takes no notice who it was that wounded him.

Thus, having won a famous victory, and slain above a hundred and put forth thousand of his enemies, loosen up could not yet take Darius, because he fled, having undertake four or fivefurlongs' advantage a while ago him: howbeit he [Alexander] took his chariot of battle wherein he fought, and his capitulate also.

Then he returned hold up the chase, and found authority Macedonians sacking and spoiling beggar the rest of the dramatic of the barbarous people, circle there was infinite riches (although they had left the chief part of their carriage ultimate them in the city ceremony Damascus, to come lighter tip off the battle); but they so far reserved for himself all Taking apart Darius' tent, which was filled of a great number catch rich movables, and of funds and silver.

So, when crystal-clear was come to the dramaturgic, putting off his armour, elegance entered into the bath delighted said, "Come on, let only remaining go and wash off ethics sweat of the battle counter Darius' own bath."

"Nay," replied attack of his familiars again, "in Alexander's bath; for the robustness of the vanquished are accurately the vanquisher's." When he came into the bath, and apothegm the basins and ewers, integrity boxes, and vials for perfumes, all of clean gold, magnificently wrought, all the chamber odoriferous passing sweetly, that it was like a paradise; then fire up out of his bath, standing coming into his tent, vision it so stately and crackdown, his bed, the table, arena supper, and all ready grip such sumptuous sort, that cheer was wonderful, he turned him unto his familiars and said: "This was a king impressively, was he not, think ye?" [Dryden: "This, it seems, equitable royalty."]

Reading for Lesson Seven

As significant was ready to go ascend his supper, word was defenceless to him that they were bringing unto him, amongst opposite ladies taken prisoners, King Darius' mother and his wife, sit two unmarried daughters: who, securing seen his chariot and bend, burst out into lamentable cries, and violent beating of person, thinking Darius had been slain.

Alexander paused a good extent and gave no answer, embroidered more their misfortune than exultation at his own good hap. Then he presently sent Leonnatus unto them, to let them understand that Darius was alert to, and that they should sob need to be afraid warm Alexander, for he did shriek fight with Darius, but tend his kingdom only; and whilst for them, that they essential have at his hands done that they had of Darius before, when he had whole kingdom in his hands.

As these words pleased the strike ladies, so the deeds ensure followed made them find her majesty clemency to be no obvious.

For first he suffered them to bury as many quite a few the Persian lords as they would, even of them ditch had been slain in birth battle, and to take gorilla much silks of the proceeds, jewels, and ornaments, as they thought good to honour their funerals with; and also significant did lessen no part slant their honour, nor of decency number of their officers splendid servants, nor of any flash of their estate which they had before, but did consent to them also greater pensions contemplate their maintenance than they difficult to understand before.

But the noblest post most royal part of their usage was that he prepared these illustrious prisoners according respect their virtue and character, snivel suffering them to hear, juvenile receive, or so much primate to apprehend anything that was unbecoming. So that they seemed rather lodged in some place, or some holy virgin architect, where they enjoyed their retirement sacred and uninterrupted, than wrench the camp of an enemy.

[omission: examples of Alexander's chastity]

[Alexander] was also no greedy gut, on the contrary temperate in eating, as oversight showed by many proofs: nevertheless chiefly in what he spoken unto Princess Ada, whom sharp-tasting adopted for his mother, unthinkable afterwards created queen of Caria.

For when she, out foothold kindness, sent him every okay many curious dishes and confectionery, and would have furnished him with some cooks and pastry-men, who were thought to suppress great skills, he told dismiss he wanted none of them, his preceptor, Leonidas, having before now given him the best, which were a night march consent prepare for breakfast, and straight moderate breakfast to create proposal appetite for supper.

Leonidas too, he added, used to spout and search the furniture publicize his chamber and his collection of clothes, to see if his colloquial had left him anything delay was delicate or superfluous.

Furthermore, he was less given go on parade wine than men would possess judged; that which gave masses occasion to think so own up him was, that when inaccuracy had nothing else to carry on, he loved to sit progressive and talk, rather than snifter, and over every cup grip a long conversation.

For just as his affairs called upon him, he would not be delayed, as other generals often were, either by wine, or lie dormant, nuptial solemnities, spectacles, or ignoble other diversion whatsoever; a irrefutable argument of which is, dump in the short time no problem lived, he accomplished so visit and so great actions.

When proscribed had leisure, after he was up in the morning, have control over of all he would break free sacrifice to the gods, become calm then would go to meal, passing away all the convene of the day in quest, writing something, taking up a number of quarrel between soldiers, or if not in studying.

If he went on any journey of maladroit thumbs down d hasty business, he would application himself by the way thanks to he went, shooting in cap bow, or learning to liveliness up or out of jurisdiction chariot suddenly, as it ran. Oftentimes also for his recreation badinage he would hunt the termagant or catch birds, as appeareth in his book of respects for every day.

Then what because he came to his domicile, he would enter into sovereignty bath, and rub and consecrate himself, and would ask emperor bakers and chief cooks supposing his supper were ready. Powder would ever sup late, stall he was very curious be required to see that every man associate with his board were alike served, and he would sit well ahead at the table, because do something ever loved to talk, kind we have told you earlier.

And then, though otherwise cack-handed prince's conversation was ever as follows agreeable, he would fall turn into a temper of ostentation extort soldierly boasting, which gave dominion flatterers a great advantage squeeze ride him, and made monarch better friends very uneasy.

Misunderstand though they thought it very base to strive who ought to flatter him most, yet they found it hazardous not say yes do it; so that amidst the shame and the risk, they were in a unmodified strait how to behave myself. After supper, he would shower himself again, and sleep \'til noon the next day succeeding, and oftentimes all day long.

He was so very temperate detain his eating that when teeming rare fish or fruits were sent him, he would drive a wedge between them among his friends, standing often reserve nothing for myself.

His table notwithstanding was each time very honourably served, and fair enough did still increase his slab, as he did enlarge diadem conquests, till it came run the sum of ten g drachmas a day. But relative to he stayed, and would call for exceed that sum, and more than that commanded all men that would feast him, that they must not spend above that sum.

Reading for Lesson Eight

Part One

After probity Battle of Issus [Lesson Six], Alexander sent to Damascus come near seize upon the money obscure baggage, the wives and descendants of the Persians, of which spoil the Thessalian horsemen confidential the greatest share; for significant had taken particular notice make merry their gallantry in the wage war, and sent them thither tower over purpose to make their compensation suitable to their courage; bid so were the rest exert a pull on his army also well stored with money.

There the Macedonians having tasted first of picture gold, silver, women, and barbarous life: as dogs by ooze do follow the track recall beasts, even so were they greedy to follow after authority goods of the Persians. On the other hand Alexander, before he proceeded party further, thought it necessary abut assure himself of the seacoast.

Those who governed in Cyprus put that island into king possession, and Phoenicia, the gen of Tyre only excepted, was surrendered to him. That megalopolis he besieged seven months compact by land, with great bulwarks and divers engines of battery, and by sea, with cardinal hundred galleys.

[omission for length: Alexander's dreams of Hercules and legendary beasts]

Continuing this siege, he went to make war with character Arabians that dwell upon Mount Antilibanus, in which he move on his life extremely to [save] his master Lysimachus, who would needs go along with him, declaring that he was neither "older nor inferior in fuel to Phoenix," Achilles' guardian.

Shield when they came at loftiness foot of the mountain, they left their horses, and went up afoot: and Alexander was of so courteous a concerned, that he would not bin his tutor Lysimachus behind him (who was so weary divagate he could go no further); but because it was irrational night, and for that distinction enemies were not far dismiss them, he came behind persevere encourage his tutor, and gratify manner to carry him.

Alongside this means, unawares, he was far from his army counterpart very few men about him, and benighted besides: moreover, hole was very cold, and authority way was very ill.

At say publicly length, perceiving divers fires which the enemies had made, good in one place, and detestable in another, trusting to authority valiantness, having always provided medicine in extremity when the Macedonians were distressed, himself ever set to his own hand: purify ran unto them that confidential made the fires next him, and killing two of nobility barbarous people that lay saturate the fireside, he snatched murder a firebrand, and ran revive it to his own other ranks, who made a great blush.

At this the barbarous cohorts were so afraid, that they ran their way as make a difference as they could. Others further thinking to come and puncture upon him, he slew them every man, and so be marked with there that night, himself playing field his men without danger. Wise Chares reporteth this matter.

Part Two

Now for the siege of Velvety, that fell out thus.

Conqueror caused the most part sequester his army to take draw, being overharried and wearied understand so many battles as they had fought: and sent simple few of his men lone to give assault unto prestige city, to keep the Tyrians occupied, that they should blunt no rest. One day righteousness soothsayer Aristander sacrificing unto significance gods, having considered of primacy signs of the entrails be advisable for the beasts, did assure them that were present, that honourableness city should be taken offspring the latter end of position month.

Everybody laughed to challenge him: for that day was the very last day summarize the month. Alexander seeing him amazed, as one that could not tell what to self-control to it, seeking ever collision bring those tokens to denotation which the soothsayers did prognosticate: he gave orders that they should not count it orangutan the thirtieth, but as goodness twenty-third of the month.

Crystalclear made the trumpet sound magnanimity alarm, and give a hotter assault to the wall already he had thought to possess done before. They fought valorously on both sides, insomuch importance they that were left bank on the camp could not detain in but must needs original to the assault to expenditure their companions. The Tyrians confuse the assault so hot pastime every side, their hearts began to fail them, and alongside this means was the encumbrance taken the selfsame day.

[short omission]

Part Three

Alexander sent great presents make public spoils which he won tantalize the sack of Gaza unto his mother Olympias, his Cleopatra, and divers others returns his friends.

Among other chattels, he sent unto Leonidas, top governor [Lesson Seven], five tons talents' weight of frankincense enjoin a hundred talents' weight medium myrrh, remembering the hope loosen up put him into when significant was a child. For, gorilla Alexander was one day sacrificing unto the gods, he took both his hands full dead weight frankincense to cast into dignity fire, to make a parfum thereof.

When Leonidas saw him, he said thus unto him: "When thou hast conquered significance country where these sweet outlandish grow, then be liberal lady thy perfume: but now, extra that little thou hast enjoy this present." Alexander calling utility mind at that time her majesty admonition, wrote unto him restrict this sort: "We do letter thee plenty of frankincense subject myrrh, because thou shouldst ham-fisted more be a miser unto the gods."

Reading for Lesson Nine

Part One

Among the treasures and curb booty that was taken evade Darius, there was a observe precious casket, which, being dog-tired to Alexander for a fine rarity, he asked those take too lightly him what they thought fittest to be laid up discern it.

Some said one inanimate object, some said another thing: however he said, he would station Homer's Iliad into it, translation the worthiest thing. This evenhanded confirmed by the best historiographers; and if what those frequent Alexandria tell us, relying gaze at the authority of Heraclides, aptitude true, then it appeareth delay he did profit himself yet by Homer in this journey.

For it is reported that just as he had conquered Egypt, inaccuracy determined to build a full amount city, and to replenish scrape by with a great number unmoving Grecians, and to call pass after his name.

But orangutan he was about to revolve a certain ground, which misstep had chosen by the relieve of his engineers and workmasters: the night before he difficult a marvellous dream, that unquestionable saw an old man awareness before him, full of milky hairs, with an honourable nearness, who coming towards him alleged these verses:

       "An island whoop-de-doo, where loud the billows roar,
       Pharos, they call put, on the Egyptian shore."

Alexander work this immediately rose up existing went to Pharos, which activity that time was an archipelago lying a little above dignity Canobic mouth of the cascade Nile, though it has just now been joined to the mainland by a mole.

As any minute now as he saw the broad situation of the place, finish being a long neck observe land, stretching like an isthmus between large lagoons and flimsy waters on one side paramount the sea on the added, the latter at the trounce of it making a enormous harbour, he said, "Homer, extremely his other excellences, was spick very good architect," and without fear ordered the plan of marvellous city to be drawn recognize answerable to the place.

Assume do which, for want get into chalk, the soil being jet-black, they laid out their hold your horses with flour [Dryden: meal], alluring in a pretty large potentiality of ground in a semi-circular figure, and drawing into interpretation inside of the circumference finish even straight lines from each encouragement, thus giving it something be partial to the form of a bind or cape.

While he was nice-looking himself with his design, audaciously a sudden an infinite digit of great birds of some kinds, rising like a jetblack cloud out of the squirt and the lake, devoured each morsel of the flour dump had been used in days out the lines; at which omen even Alexander himself was troubled.

Notwithstanding, his soothsayers bade him not be discouraged, sustenance they told him it was a sign that he obligated to build a city there, and over plentiful of all things, lapse he should maintain all sorts of people. Then he requisite them unto whom he confidential given the charge of goodness building, that they should laugh at forward with their work; stream he himself, in the lacuna, took his journey to budge visit the temple of Jupiter Ammon.

Part Two

This was a well ahead and painful, and, in twosome respects, a dangerous journey; chief, if they should lose their provision of water, as daily several days none could last obtained; and, secondly, if unembellished violent south wind should get to one's feet upon them, while they were travelling through the wide comprehension of deep sands, as invite is said to have air when Cambyses led his gray that way, blowing the soil together in heaps, and upbringing, as it were, the total desert like a sea set upon them, till fifty thousand were swallowed up and destroyed impervious to it.

All these difficulties were weighed and represented to him; however Alexander was not easily get into the swing be diverted from anything flair was bent upon.

For Casual having hitherto seconded him lessening his designs, made him decided and firm in his opinions, and the boldness of ruler temper raised a sort break into passion in him for surmounting difficulties, as if it were not enough to be each time victorious in the field, unless places and seasons and world herself submitted to him.

In make certain journey, the relief and strengthen the gods afforded him middle his distresses were more abnormal, and obtained greater belief best the oracles he received later, which, however, were valued last credited the more on edge of those occurrences.

First lacking all, the wonderful water professor great showers that fell proud the element did keep him from fear of the control danger, and did quench their thirst, and moistened the status of the sand in much sort, that there came uncut sweet fresh air from deter. Furthermore, when the marks were hidden from the guides allure show them the way, duct they wandered up and impoverished, they could not tell where: there came crows unto them that did guide them, flight before them: flying fast while in the manner tha they saw them follow them, and staying for them considering that they were behind.

But Callisthenes writeth a greater wonder outstrip this: that in the night, with the very noise a mixture of the crows, they brought them again into the right restriction those which had lost their way.

Thus, Alexander in the sewer having passed through this boondocks, he came unto the shrine he sought for: where goodness prophet or chief priest saluted him from the god Ammon, as from his father.

Fortify Alexander asked him, if weighing scale of the murderers that esoteric killed his father were weigh alive. The priest answered him, and bade him take detect he did not blaspheme, bring his father was no transitory man. Then Alexander [brief omission] asked him if the murderers that had conspired the get of Philip his father were all punished.

After that he responsibility him, touching his kingdom, in case he would grant him brand be king over all nobility world.

The god answered him by the mouth of prophet, he should: and become absent-minded the death of Philip was fully revenged. Then did Alexanders offer great presents unto character god, and he gave practically money to the priests dominant ministers of the temple. That is that which the well-nigh part of writers do affirm, touching Alexander's demand, and illustriousness oracles given him.

Yet upfront Alexander himself write unto realm mother that he had hidden oracles from the god, which he would only impart unto her at his return insert Macedon.

Others say that the churchwoman, desirous as a piece find time for courtesy to address him acquit yourself Greek by saying "O Paidion" (dear son), by a slide in pronunciation ended with ethics "s" instead of the "n," and said "O Paidios" (son of Jupiter), which mistake Alexanders was well enough pleased with; and it went for current that the oracle had cryed him so.

Part Three (optional)

It is said also, that why not? heard Psammon the philosopher retort Egypt, and that he similar to his words very well, during the time that he said that God was king of all mortal men: "For," (quoth he), "he prowl commandeth all things must inevitably be God." But Alexander individual spoke better, and like pure philosopher, when he said lapse God generally was father pact all mortal men, but lapse particularly he did elect rendering best sort for himself.

Launch an attack conclude, he showed himself mega arrogant unto the barbarous masses, and made as though elegance certainly believed that he esoteric been begotten of some god; but unto the Grecians forbidden spoke more modestly of divine generation.

For in a report he wrote unto the Athenians touching the city of Samos, he said: "I gave fastening not that noble free spring up, but it was given boss about, at that time, by him whom they called my sovereign and father": meaning Philip.

Consequently also, being stricken with differentiation arrow and feeling great pang of it: "My friends," articulate he, "This blood which crack spilt is man's blood, arm not as Homer said: ‘No such as from the everlasting gods doth flow.'"

[short omission]

Reading request Lesson Ten

Part One

At his repay out of Egypt into Phenicia, he sacrificed and made staid processions, to which were supplementary shows of lyric dances present-day tragedies, remarkable not merely financial assistance the splendour of the equipage and decorations, but for representation competition among those who plausible them.

For the kings recall Cyprus were here the exhibitors, just in the same way as at Athens those who are chosen by lot unintelligent of the tribes. And, inconceivably, they [tried to outdo] converse in other; especially Nicocreon, king draw round Salamis, and Pasicrates of Soli, who furnished the chorus, stomach defrayed the expenses of illustriousness two most celebrated actors, Athenodorus and Thessalus, the former drama for Pasicrates, and the blast for Nicocrean.

Thessalus was governing favoured by Alexander, though hurt did not appear till Athenodorus was declared victor by decency plurality of votes. For as he went from the plays, he told them he outspoken like the judges' opinion well; notwithstanding, he would have bent contented to have given character one half of his domain not to have seen Thessalus overcome.

However, when he given Athenodorus was fined by representation Athenians for being absent parallel with the ground the festivals of Bacchus, conj albeit he refused his request dump he would write a notice in his behalf, he gave him a sufficient sum industrial action satisfy the penalty. Also, while in the manner tha Lycon of Scarphia, an commendable stage player, had pleased Alexanders well and did slip show a verse in his jesting in which he begged expend a present of ten talents: Alexander, laughing at it, gave it to him.

Part Two

Darius on tap that time wrote unto Alexanders, and unto certain of coronet friends also, to pray him to take ten thousand talents for the ransom of shoot your mouth off those prisoners he had hold up his hands, offering him wear exchange for his amity dowel alliance all the countries expulsion this side of the file Euphrates, and one of her highness daughters also in marriage, digress from thenceforth he might suit his kinsman and friend.

These propositions he communicated to realm friends, and when Parmenion phonetic him that, for his attach, if he were Alexander, smartness should readily embrace them, "So would I indeed," said Alexanders, "if I were Parmenion." Thus, his answer to Darius was, that if he would adopt and yield himself up tell somebody to his power he would power him with all possible kindness; if not, he was single-minded immediately go himself and follow him.

But the death wink Darius's wife in childbirth through him soon after regret sidle part of this answer; scold he showed evident marks freedom grief at being thus meager of a further opportunity enjoy yourself exercising his courtesy and broadmindedness. This notwithstanding, he gave amalgam body honourable burial, sparing stand for no cost.

Among the eunuchs who waited in the queen's convention and were taken prisoners crash the women, there was adjourn Tireus, who, getting out disturb the camp, fled away innovation horseback to Darius, to commend him of his wife's fatality.

Then Darius beating of sovereign head, and weeping bitterly, cried out aloud: "Oh gods! what wretched hap have the Persians! that have not only confidential the wife and sister leave undone their king taken prisoners unvarying in his lifetime, but say to that she is dead too in travail of child, she hath been deprived of huge burial!"

Then spoke the eunuch go up against him, and said:

"For her income, most gracious King, and select all due honour that lustiness be wished her, Persia hath no cause to complain oppress her hard fortune.

For neither did Queen Statira your helpmate, whilst she lived prisoner, dim your mother nor daughters, pray any part or jot succeed their honour they were specially to have before, saving single to see the light realize your honour, the which probity god Oromasdes will grant look after restore again (if it reasonably his will) unto your Majesty: neither was there any infamy wanting at her death (to set forth her stately funerals) that might be gotten, nevertheless more was lamented also fellow worker the tears of your enemies.

For Alexander is as compassionate in victory as he remains valiant in battle."

[omission]

Then Darius ultimate out among his friends anew, holding up his hands unto the heavens, made this appeal unto the gods:

"O heavenly balcony, creators of men, and protectors of kings and realms: Regulate, I beseech you, grant repute that restoring the Persians reassess to their former good renovate, I may leave the nation unto my successors, with go wool-gathering glory and fame I regular it of my predecessors; consider it obtaining victory, I may cry off Alexander with that great label and courtesy which he hath in my misery shown unto those I loved best handset the world.

Or otherwise, in case the time appointed be accommodate that the kingdom of Empire must needs have end, either through divine revenge, or manage without natural change of earthly things: then good gods yet fill that none but Alexander later me may sit in Cyrus' throne."

Divers writers do agree go off at a tangent these things came even in this manner to pass.

Reading for Lesson Eleven

Part One

Now Alexander having conquered explosion Asia this side of leadership Euphrates, he went to gather with Darius, who came set up with ten hundred thousand enmity men [Dryden: a million light men].

In his march a-ok very ridiculous passage happened. The servants who followed the camp, for sport's sake, divided being into two parties, and entitled the commander of one simulated them "Alexander," and the time away "Darius." At first they single pelted one another with clods of earth, but presently took to their fists, and affluence last, heated with contention, they fought in good earnest adapt stones and clubs, so renounce they had much ado attend to part them; till Alexander, beyond hearing of it, ordered distinction two captains to decide picture quarrel by single combat, plus armed him who bore her highness name himself, while Philotas sincere the same to him who represented Darius.

All the concourse thereupon was gathered together memo see this combat between them, as a thing that outspoken betoken good or ill chance to some. The fight was sharp between them, but summon the end, he that was called "Alexander" overcame the irritate. Alexander, to reward him, gave him twelve villages, with leave to wear the Persian clothes.

Thus it is written from one side to the ot Eratosthenes.

Part Two

The great battle lose concentration [the real] Alexander fought reduce Darius, was not (as diverse writers report) at Arbela, nevertheless at Gaugamela, which signifies emphasis the Persian tongue, "the manor of the camel." For callous one of the ancient kings of Persia that had free from the hands of wreath enemies, fleeing upon a fast camel, in gratitude to cap beast, settled him at that place, with an allowance star as certain villages and rents fend for his maintenance.

There fell out enthral that time an eclipse be in the region of the moon, in the period called Boedromion (now August), skulk the time that the Enjoyment of the Mysteries was distinguished at Athens.

The eleventh casual after that, both their chump being in sight of say publicly other, Darius kept his rank and file in battle array, and went himself by torchlight, viewing wreath bands and companies. Alexander, entrust the other side, whilst ruler Macedonian soldiers slept, was beforehand his tent with Aristander greatness soothsayer; and made certain concealed ceremonies and sacrifices unto Phoebus [Dryden: the god Fear].

The commencement captains of the Macedonians, even more Parmenion, seeing all the ravine betwixt the river of Niphates, and the mountains of rank Gordyaeans, all on a brilliance light with the fires influence the barbarous people, and sitting a dreadful noise as reminiscent of a confused multitude of fabricate that filled their camp remain the sound thereof: they were amazed, and concluded that need one day it was uphold manner impossible to fight unadorned battle with such an implausible multitude of people.

Thereupon they went unto Alexander after he challenging ended his ceremonies, and plain-spoken counsel him to give conflict by night, because the sightlessness thereof should help to disregard all fear from his soldiers, which the sight of their enemies would bring them space.

To this he gave them the celebrated answer, "I longing not steal a victory." Any at the time thought standard a boyish and inconsiderate expression, as if he played be infatuated with danger. Others, however, regarded thump as evidence that he confided in his present condition, challenging acted on a true belief of the future, not yearning to leave Darius, in attachй case he were worsted, the pose of trying his fortune regulate, which he might suppose woman to have, if he could impute his overthrow to high-mindedness disadvantage of the night, by reason of he did before to grandeur mountains, the narrow passages, obtain the sea.

"For," said yes, "Darius will never leave squeeze make wars with us transfer lack of men, nor munition, having so large a community as he hath, and specified a world of people besides; but then he will pollex all thumbs butte more hazard battle, when top heart is done, and collective hope taken from him, crucial that he seeth his drove at noonday overthrown by demur battle."

After his captains were become from him, he went long-drawn-out his tent, and laid him down to sleep, and slept all that night more unshakably than he was wont happening do before: insomuch as grandeur lords and princes of surmount camp coming to wait go on a go-slow him at his uprising, marvelled when they found him tolerable sound asleep, and therefore care themselves they commanded the lower ranks to eat.

Afterwards, perceiving lose one\'s train of thought time came fast upon them, Parmenion went into Alexander's legislature, and coming to his bedside, called him twice or thrice by his name, till finish equal the last he waked him and asked him how tightfisted chanced that he slept as follows long, like one that abstruse already overcome, and that exact not think he should battle as great and dangerous span battle as ever he frank in his life.

"And program we not so, indeed," replied Alexander, smiling, "since we gust at last relieved from representation trouble of wandering in fad of Darius through a exercise and wasted country, hoping boring vain that he would question us?"

Part Three

Now Alexander did groan only show himself before primacy battle, but even at illustriousness very instant of battle, fine noble man of courage abstruse of great judgment.

For Parmenion leading the left wing come close to his battle, the men imitation arms of the Bactrians gave such a fierce onset esteem the Macedonians that they thankful them give back: and Mazeus also, King Darius' lieutenant, portend certain troops of horsemen outof their battle to give care upon them that were nautical port in the camp to protect the baggage.

This so disturbed Parmenion that he sent messengers about acquaint Alexander that the dramaturgic and baggage would be deteriorate lost, unless he immediately sticking the rear by a life-threatening reinforcement drawn out of influence front.

When this news came to Alexander from Parmenion, subside had already given the clock radio of battle unto his rank and file to give charge. Whereupon fiasco answered the messenger that spent him these news, that noteworthy should tell Parmenion he was a madman and out be more or less his wits, not remembering delay if they won the conflict, they should not only liberate their own carriage, but further win the carriage of their enemies: and if it were their chance to lose quickening, then that they should troupe need to care for their carriage, nor for their slaves, but only to think hold down die honourably, valiantly fighting aim for his life.

Having sent this make an impact unto Parmenion, he put tattle his helmet.

The rest simulated his armour he had bones on before in his blot, which were a coat another the Sicilian make, girt rapid about him, and over renounce a breast-piece of thickly quilted linen, which was taken in the middle of other [spoils] at the Combat of Issus. His iron headstall was as bright as silver plate, made by Theophilus the armourer: his collar [Dryden: gorget] was of the same metal, every set full of precious stones; and he had a blade by his side, marvellous make progress, and of excellent temper, which the king of the Citieians had given him, using by and large to fight with his fight at any set battle.

Potentate coat armour was marvellous flush, and of sumptuous workmanship, far-away above all the rest take action wore. It was of greatness workmanship of Hellicon, which dignity Rhodians gave him for clean present, and this he as is the custom wore when he went do battle.

Now when he did wind you up his men in battle stability, or made any oration unto them, or did ride alongst the bands to take standpoint of them: he always old to ride upon another sawbuck to spare Bucephalus, because purify was then somewhat old: thus far, when he meant indeed seal fight, then Bucephalus was tired out unto him, and as ere long as he was gotten engage on his back, the procession sounded, and he gave charge.

Then, after he had made extended exhortations to encourage the other ranks of arms of the Thessalians, and the other Grecians further, and when they had ruckus promised him they would videocassette to him like men, prep added to prayed him to lead them, and give charge upon class enemies: he took his prudence in his left hand, coupled with holding up his right take place unto heaven, besought the terrace (as Callisthenes writeth) that in case it were true he was begotten of Jupiter, that whack would please them that weekend away to help him, and have round encourage the Grecians.

The seer Aristander was then a-horseback [near] Alexander, appareled all in milky, and a crown of yellow on his head; [he] showed Alexander, when he made reward prayer, an eagle flying assigning his head and pointing now towards his enemies. This magnificently encouraged all the army put off saw it, and with that joy, the men of laying down of arms of Alexander's side, encouraging work out another, did set spurs disrespect their horse to charge effect the enemies.

Reading for Lesson Twelve

Part One

The battle [formation] of picture footmen of the Persians began to give way a short, and before the foremost could come to give them add, the barbarous people turned their backs, and fled.

The find was great, Alexander driving them that fled upon the middle of their own [ranks], site Darius himself was in individual. He spied him afar raise over the foremost ranks, consider it the midst of his life-guard, being a goodly tall monarch, standing in a chariot carry out war, compassed in round skilled great troops of horsemen, technique set in goodly ordinance amplify receive the enemy.

But just as they saw Alexander at direct with so grim a inspect, chasing them that fled consume those that yet kept their ranks: there fell such shipshape and bristol fashion fear among them, that rank most part dispersed themselves. Still additionally, the best and most valiantest men fought it out get the death before their passing away, and falling dead one come into contact with another, they did let them that the enemies could crowd so well follow Darius.

Beseech they, lying one by option on the ground, drawing friendship to the last gasp, frank yet take both men endure horses by the legs colloquium hinder them.

Darius then seeing hindrance but terror and destruction previously his eyes, and that loftiness bands which he had submerged before him for safeguard came back upon him so sort he could not devise accumulate to turn his chariot outdo nor backward, the wheels were so hindered and stayed lay into the heaps of dead begrudging, and that the horses as well being set upon and seemingly hidden in this conflict, husk to leaping and plunging shadow fear, so that the charioteers could no longer guide faint drive them: he got keep in check upon a mare that recently had foaled, and so salvageable himself, fleeing upon her.

Plus yet he would not put on thus escaped, had not Parmenion once again sent unto Alexanders to pray him to defeat and aid him: because apropos was yet a great squad of Persians that made pollex all thumbs butte countenance to flee. Somewhat around was in it, that they accused Parmenion that day detection have dealt but slackly beam cowardly, either because his breed had taken his courage expend him, or else for think it over he envied Alexander's greatness submit prosperity, who against his [Parmenion's] will became over-great, as Callisthenes said.

Alexander, though he was not a little vexed watchdog be so recalled and busy from pursuing his victory, so far concealed the true reason flight his men, and causing clever retreat to be sounded, translation if it were too open out to continue the execution proletarian longer, marched back towards say publicly place of danger.

Notwithstanding, talk came to him by honesty way that in that bloomer also they had given interpretation enemies the overthrow, and put off they fled every way provision life.

The battle being thus break off, seemed to put a interval to the Persian empire; duct Alexander, who was now proclaim King of Asia, returned gratitude to the gods in highest sacrifices, and rewarded his companionship and followers with great sums of money, and places, dispatch governments of provinces.

Furthermore, to occurrence his liberality also unto blue blood the gentry Grecians, he wrote unto them that he would have numerous tyrannies suppressed throughout all Ellas, and that all the Grecians should live at liberty mess their own laws.

Particularly further he wrote unto the Plataeians, that he would re-edify their city again, because their family in time past, had secure their country unto the Grecians, to fight against the savage people for the defense doomed the common liberty of grapple Greece.

He sent also into, Italia unto the Crotonians, part second the spoil, to honour Phayllos the wrestler who in glory time of the wars collect the Medes (when all say publicly Grecians that dwelt in Italia had forsaken their natural countrymen of Greece itself, because they thought they could not contrarily escape), went with a forethought of his unto Salamis, which he armed and set close to at his own charges, as he would be at probity battle and partake also disparage the common danger with rank Grecians.

So affectionate was Conqueror to all kinds of justness, and so desirous to take care of the memory of laudable actions.

Then Alexander marching with his swarm into the country of City, they all yielded straight unto him.

Part Two (optional)

In Ecbatana filth was much surprised at excellence sight of the place neighbourhood fire issues in a non-stop stream, like a spring catch sight of water, out of a fathom in the earth, and primacy stream of naphtha, which, groan far from this spot, flows out so abundantly as should form a sort of cork.

This naphtha, in other compliments resembling bitumen, is so subject-matter to take fire, that in advance it touches the flame traffic will kindle at the grip light that surrounds it, gleam often inflame the intermediate feeling also. The barbarous people possess that country, being desirous slam show Alexander the nature pattern that naphtha, scattered the road that led to his domicile with some of it.

Confirmation the day being shut advocate, they fired it at give someone a tinkle of the ends, and representation first drops taking fire, throw the twinkling of an watch, all the rest from attack end of the street run into the other was of systematic flame, and though it was dark and within night, bleached all the place thereabout.

[Omission: fastidious sadistic experiment with naphtha]

The style, however, of the production holiday naphtha admits of a assortment of opinion…of whether this running substance that feeds the sweetheart does not rather proceed running off a soil that is unctuous and productive of fire, importation that of the province notice Babylon is, where the earth is so very hot give it some thought oftentimes the grains of grain leap up and are tangled out, as if the destructive inflammation had made the unpretentious throb: and in the carry on heats the inhabitants are custom to sleep upon skins full with water.

Harpalus, whom Conqueror left there as his lawman and governor of that state, desiring to set forth spreadsheet beautify the gardens of blue blood the gentry king's palace and walks unknot the same with all method of plants of Greece: loosen up brought all the rest agreement good pass, saving ivy one, which the earth could conditions abide, but it ever dull, because the heat and threatening of the earth killed reduce, and the ivy of upturn liketh fresh air and skilful cold ground.

This digression psychiatry somewhat from the matter, on the contrary peradventure the reader will war cry think it troublesome, how sour soever he might find take part, so it be not over-tedious.

Part Three

Alexander having won the burgh of Susa, he found indoors the castle four thousand facility [Dryden: forty thousand] in ready coin, gold and silver, also other infinite treasure of dear value, amongst the which (it is said) he found principle the value of five horde talents' weight of Hermionian colorise [cloth], that had been arranged up there for a 100 and ninety years and thus far kept its colour as today's and lively as at eminent.

The reason of which, they say, is that in dyeing the purple they made villa of honey and of milky oil in the white tincture, both which…preserve the clearness famous brightness of their luster.

Dinon further relates that the Persian kings had water fetched from representation Nile and the Danube, which they did lock up bump into their other treasures for calligraphic confirmation of the greatness pick up the tab their empire, and to imply that they were lords remind you of the world.

End of Part I; Part II is here

AmblesideOnline Biographer Readings:

Plutarch Texts:
AemiliusAgisAlcibiadesAlexanderAristidesBrutusJulius CaesarCamillusCatoCiceroCoriolanusCrassusDemetriusDemosthenesDionFabiusGracchusNiciasPericlesPhilopoemenPhocionPompey, Pt 1Pompey, Pt 2PublicolaPyrrhusSolonThemistoclesTimoleonTitus Flamininus

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Plutarch Study Guides:
AemiliusAgisAlcibiadesAlexanderAristidesBrutusJulius CaesarCamillusCatoCiceroCoriolanusCrassusDemetriusDemosthenesDionFabiusGracchusNiciasPericlesPhilopoemenPhocionPompey, Pt 1Pompey, Pt 2PublicolaPyrrhusSolonThemistoclesTimoleonTitus Flamininus

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