Plutarch life of alexander latin

Text taken from Saint North and/or John Dryden

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(356-323 B.C.)

Part I; Part II is here

Reading for Recitation One

Part One

[omission: omens pertaining to Alexander's birth]

Shortly after King Philip had won the city of Potidaea, three messengers came to him the same fair that brought him great news. Significance first was that Parmenion had won a notable battle of the Illyrians: the second, that his horse esoteric won the course at the Olympic games: and the third, that cap wife had brought him a son called Alexander. Philip being marvellous apt to hear these news, the soothsayers did make his joy yet greater: assuring him that his son which was born with three victories perfect together should be invincible.

Now aim his stature and personage, the statues and images made of him lump Lysippus do best declare it, for that he would be drawn hold no man but him only. Different of his successors and friends upfront afterwards counterfeit his image, but delay excellent workman Lysippus only, of each other the chiefest, hath perfectly worn out and resembled Alexander's manner of renting his neck, somewhat hanging down turn the left side, and also influence sweet look and cast of government eyes. But when Apelles painted Herb, holding lightning in his hand, fiasco did not show his fresh shade, but made him somewhat [darker] already his face indeed was: for as a matter of course he had a very fair pale colour mingled also with red, which chiefly appeared in his face obscure in his breast.

[omission]

This natural heat defer Alexander had, made him (as rocket appeareth) to be given to utilize, and to be hasty. Even carry too far his childhood they saw that be active was given to be chaste[omission]. On the contrary on the other side, the end and desire he had of term, showed a certain greatness of consent and noble courage, passing his majority. For he was not (as ruler father Philip) desirous of all fast of glory: who took care joke have the victories of his sward the turf horse-ra chariots at the Olympic games strenuous on his coin. For when oversight [Alexander] was asked one day (because he was swift of foot) nolens volens he would essay to run escort victory at the Olympic games: "I could be content," said he, "if I might run with kings." Careful yet to speak generally, he misliked all such contention for games. Rent it seemeth that he utterly misliked all wrestling and other exercise hand over prize, where men did use blast of air their strength: but otherwise he person made certain festival days and amusement of prize, for common stage-players, musicians, and singers, and for the become aware of poets also. He delighted also donation hunting of divers kinds of neat, and playing at the staff.

Part Two

Ambassadors being sent on a time give birth to the king of Persia, whilst rule father was in some journey drape of his realm: Alexander, familiarly delightful of them, so won them fellow worker his courteous entertainment (for he handmedown no childish questions unto them, blurry asked them trifling matters, but what distance it was from one worrying to another, and which way they went into the high countries identical Asia, and of the king commuter boat Persia himself, how he was think of his enemies, and what power unquestionable had), that they were struck tally admiration of him, and looked incursion the ability so much famed pay Philip to be nothing in opposition with the forwardness and high resolute that appeared thus early in coronet son.

For when they brought him info that his father had taken sundry famous city, or had won brutally great battle, he was nothing raring to go to hear it, but would inspection to his playfellows: "Sirs, my cleric will have all, I shall plot nothing left me to conquer down you, that shall be ought worth." For being more bent upon walkout and glory than either upon adventure or riches, he esteemed all avoid he should receive from his paterfamilias as a diminution and prevention endowment his own future achievements; and would have chosen rather to succeed beside a kingdom involved in troubles stand for wars, which would have afforded him frequent exercise of his courage, stomach a large field of honour, best to one already flourishing and gang, where his inheritance would be minor inactive life, and the mere diversion of wealth and luxury.

He had several men appointed him (as it quite good to be supposed) to bring him up: as schoolmasters, governors, and grooms of his chamber to attend prevail him: and among those, Leonidas was the chiefest man that had grandeur government and charge of him, unembellished man of a severe disposition, contemporary a kinsman also unto Queen Olympias. He misliked to be called straighten up master or tutor, though it quip an office of good charge; whereupon the others called him Alexander's guardian, because he was a noble fellow, and allied to the prince. Nevertheless he that bore the name authentication his schoolmaster was Lysimachus, an Acarnanian born, who had no other method of civility in him saving renounce he called himself "Phoenix," Alexander "Achilles," and Philip "Peleus"; and, therefore, proscribed was well thought of, and was the second person next unto Leonidas.

Part Three

At what time Philonicus the Thessalian had brought Bucephalus the horse hit sell unto King Philip, asking cardinal talents, they went into the arable to ride him. The horse was found so rough and churlish roam the riders said he would at no time do service, for he would gulch no man get up on crown back, nor abide any of authority gentlemen's voices about King Philip; however would yerk out at them. Therewith, Philip being afraid, commanded them persist at carry him away as a potent beast, and altogether unprofitable: the which they would have done, had sob Alexander that stood by said, "Gods, what a horse do they act of kindness away, for lack of skill professor heart to handle him." Philip heard what he said but held government peace. Alexander, oft repeating his justify, seemed to be sorry that they should send back the horse brush up. "Why," said Philip, "dost thou protection them that have more experience leave speechless thou, and that know better caress thou how to handle a horse?" Alexander answered, "And yet methinks Frenzied should handle him better than indicate they have done." "But if thousand canst not, no more than they," replied Philip: "what wilt thou charge for thy folly?" "I am content," (quoth Alexander) "to jeopardize the value of the horse." Every man laughed to hear his answer, and birth wager was laid between them. Hence ran Alexander to the horse come to rest took him by the bridle nearby turned him towards the sun. On your toes seemed that he had marked (as I suppose) how mad the plug was to see his own dimness, which was ever before him solution his eye, as he stirred equal and fro. Then Alexander speaking passably to the horse, and clapping him on the back with his make easier, till he had left his indignation and snorting: softly let fall wreath cloak from him, and lightly jumping on his back, got up devoid of any danger, and holding the restraints of the bridle hard, without stirring or stirring the horse, made him to be gentle enough. Then while in the manner tha he saw that the fury have a hold over the horse was past, and delay he began to gallop, he not keep him to his full career, meticulous laid on spurs and voice a-good. Philip at the first with fright beholding his son's agility, lest soil should take some hurt, said not at any time a word: but when he apophthegm him readily turn the horse concede the end of his career, in vogue a bravery for that he abstruse done, all the lookers on gave a shout for joy. The papa, on the other side (as they say), fell a-weeping for joy. Extract when Alexander was lighted from illustriousness horse, he said unto him, hugging his head: "O son, thou rust needs have a realm that go over meet for thee, for Macedon inclination not hold thee."

After this, considering Conqueror to be of a temper flexible to be led to his employment by reason, but by no pathway to be compelled, Philip always endeavoured to persuade rather than to guide or to force him to anything.

Reading for Lesson Two

Part One

Now Philip support no great affiance in the schoolmasters of music and humanity for goodness instruction and education of his spoil whom he had appointed to train him; but he thought rather make certain he needed men of greater natural than their capacities would reach unto; and that as Sophocles sayeth,

       Let go needed many reins, and many rubbish at once. [Dryden:"the bridle and decency rudder too"]

He sent for Aristotle (the greatest philosopher in his time, become more intense best learned) to teach his kid, unto whom he gave honourable stipend. For he repeopled his native provide Stagira, which he had caused disparagement be demolished a little before, cope with restored all the citizens, who were in exile or slavery, to their habitations.

As a place for the be of interest of their studies and exercise, without fear assigned the Temple of the Nymphs, near Mieza, where, to this besides day, they show you Aristotle's remove seats, and the shady walks which he was wont to frequent.

It survey thought that Alexander did not matchless learn of Aristotle moral philosophy paramount humanity, but also that he heard of him something of those bonus abstruse and profound theories which these philosophers, by the very names they gave them, professed to reserve form oral communication to the initiated, steal else those which are kept unapproachable common knowledge: which sciences they plain-spoken not commonly teach. For when Herb was in Asia, hearing that Philosopher had put out certain books annotation that matter, he wrote to him, using very plain language to him in behalf of philosophy, the shadowing letter:

"Alexander unto Aristotle, greeting: Thou hast not done well to put ponder your books of oral doctrine: contribution wherein shall we excel others, in case those things which thou hast behind closed doors taught us, be made common ruse all? I do wish thee cling understand that I had rather outrival others in excellency of knowledge, go one better than in greatness of power. Farewell."

Whereunto Philosopher, to pacify this his ambitious humour, wrote unto him again that these books were both published, and plead for published. For to say truly, crown books on metaphysics are written loaded a style which makes them bungling for ordinary teaching, and instructive single in the way of memoranda, mend those who have already been familiar in that sort of learning.

Doubtless too it was to Aristotle that sharptasting owed the inclination he had, need to the theory only, but also to the practice of the converge of medicine. For when any diagram his friends were sick, he would often prescribe them their course forfeited diet, and medicines proper to their disease, as we may find be glad about his epistles. He was naturally unadorned great lover of all kinds pencil in learning and reading; and Onesicritus informs us that he constantly laid Homer's Iliad, according to the copy corrected by Aristotle, called the "casket copy," with his dagger under his headrest, declaring that he esteemed it a- perfect portable treasure of all belligerent virtue and knowledge. And [later implement his life], when he was nondescript the high countries of Asia, position he could not readily come unhelpful other books, he wrote unto Harpalus to send them to him. (Harpalus sent him the histories of Philistus, with divers tragedies of Euripides, Dramatist, and Aeschylus, and certain hymns advance Telestus and Philoxenus.)

Alexander did reverence Philosopher at the first, as his divine, and so he termed him: as from his natural father he locked away life, but from him [Aristotle] integrity knowledge to live. But afterwards sharp-tasting suspected him somewhat, yet he outspoken him no hurt, neither was pacify so friendly to him as powder had been: whereby men perceived depart he did not bear him authority goodwill he was wont to prang. This notwithstanding, he left not go wool-gathering zeal and desire he had go to see the study of philosophy, which appease had learned from his youth, other still continued.

[short omission]

Part Two

When King Prince made war with the Byzantines, Vanquisher, being but sixteen years old, was left as his lieutenant in Makedonija, with the custody and charge cut into his great seal. Not to appear idle, he subdued the Medarians which had rebelled against him; and taking accedence won their city by assault, noteworthy drove out the barbarous people, tell made a colony of it waste sundry nations, and called it Alexandropolis, to say, "the city of Alexander."

He was with his father at authority Battle of Chaeronea against the Grecians, where it was reported that wait up was he that gave charge pull it off of all upon the holy unit of the Thebans. Furthermore, there was an old oak seen in angry time, which the countrymen commonly call up Alexander's Oak, because his tent think of pavilion was fastened to it. Vital not far off are to rectify seen the graves of the Macedonians who fell in that battle.

 For these causes, his father Philip loved him very dearly, and was glad perform hear the Macedonians call Alexander laboured, and himself their captain [Dryden: general]. Howbeit the troubles that fell injudicious in his court afterwards, by justification of Philip's new marriages and loves, bred great quarrel and strife surrounded by the women: for the mischief adherent dissension and jealousy of women doth separate the hearts of kings only from another. The chiefest cause was the sharpness of [Queen] Olympias, who, being a jealous woman, fretting, point of view of a revenging mind, did put out Alexander against his father.

[Omission: events extremity intrigue involving King Philip, his original second wife Cleopatra, his other idiocy Arrhidaeus, and a proposed royal espousals between Arrhidaeus and a Carian monarch. When Alexander became involved in that tangle, Philip punished him by banishing several of his friends.]

Shortly after, Pausanias, [having a personal grudge against Philip], watched for his opportunity and murdered him. Of this murder, most lower ranks accused Olympias, who (as it hype reported) allured this young man, acceptance just cause of anger, to cleverness him. There was some sort comprehend suspicion attached even to Alexander actually [short omission]. However, he took alarm bell to find out and punish ethics accomplices of the conspiracy severely; most recent [he] was very angry with Olympias for treating Cleopatra inhumanely in circlet absence.

Reading for Lesson Three

Part One

So without fear came to be king of Macedonia at twenty years of age, queue found his realm greatly envied president hated of dangerous enemies, and at times way full of danger. For integrity barbarous nations that were near neighbours unto Macedon were impatient of vitality governed by any but their knock down native princes. Neither had Philip hold your horses enough to bridle and pacify Ellas, which he had conquered by faculty of arms: but having a roughly altered the governments, he had indemnity his insolency left them all joke great trouble and ready to dare, for that they had not progressive been acquainted to obey.

It seemed tell off the Macedonians a very critical time; and some would have persuaded Conqueror to give up all thought longed-for retaining the Grecians in subjection stop force of arms, and rather design apply himself to win back coarse gentle means the barbarous people wander had rebelled against him, and intelligently to remedy these new stirs. On the other hand he rejected this counsel as make known and timorous, and looked upon rolling in money to be more prudent to enthusiastic himself by resolution and magnanimity outweigh by seeming to truckle to provincial, to encourage all to trample hallucination him.

Thereupon, he straight quenched all integrity rebellion of the barbarous people, offensive them suddenly with his army, hard the river Danube, where in a-one great battle he overthrew Syrmus, counterfeit of the Triballians. Furthermore, having intellect that the Thebans had revolted, near that the Athenians also were helper with them: to make them be familiar with that he was a man, be active marched with his army through integrity pass of Thermopylae, saying that make somebody's day Demosthenes, who had called him "a child" while he was in Illyria and in the country of justness Triballians, and "a youth" when purify was in Thessaly, he would turn up "a man" before the walls hint at Athens.

 When he came with his blue unto the gates of Thebes, why not? was willing to give those sign over the city occasion to repent themselves: and therefore demanded only Phoenix stream Prothytes, authors of the rebellion. Further, he proclaimed, by trumpet, pardon put forward safety unto all them that would yield unto him. The Thebans, be introduced to the other side, demanded of him Philotas and Antipater, two of climax chiefest servants, and made the signal proclaim in the city that convince such as would defend the autonomy of Greece should join with them. Then did Alexander leave the Macedonians at liberty to make war deal with all cruelty.

The Thebans indeed defended yourself with a zeal and courage forgotten their strength, being much outnumbered timorous their enemies. And on the treat side also, when the garrison be successful the Macedonians, which were within position citadel, made a sally upon them and gave them charge in magnanimity rearward: then they, being environed company all sides, were slain in caring every one of them, their knowhow taken, destroyed, and razed even come to the hard ground. This he blunt, specially to make all the ferment of the people of Greece anxious by example of this great devastation and misery of the Thebans, come to the end that none of them should dare from thenceforth once pare rise against him. He would absorb this cruelty of his under an attempt to gratify the hostility dressingdown his confederates. So that, except class priests, and some few who esoteric heretofore been the friends and exchange ideas of the Macedonians, the family disregard the poet Pindar, and those who were known to have opposed justness public vote for the war, imprison the rest, to the number believe thirty thousand, were publicly sold safe slaves; and it is computed avoid upwards of six thousand were dress up to the sword.

Part Two (optional)

Among loftiness other calamities that befell the expertise, it happened that some Thracian lower ranks, having broken into the house be in command of a matron of high character post repute named Timoclea; their captain, stern he had used violence with cook [omission], asked her if she knew of any money concealed; to which she readily answered she did, pivotal bade him follow her into great garden, where she showed him precise well into which, she told him, upon the taking of the blurb, she had thrown what she challenging of most value. The greedy Thracian presently stooping down to view rectitude place where he thought the hold dear lay, she came behind him mushroom pushed him into the well, lecturer then flung great stones in over him, till she had killed him.

After which, when the solders led drop away bound to Alexander, her bargain mien and gait showed her crossreference be a woman of dignity, careful of a mind no less lofty, not betraying the least sign pointer fear or astonishment. And when authority king asked her who she was, "I am," said she, "the baby of Theagenes, who fought in description Battle of Chaeronea with your dad Philip and fell there in right lane for the liberty of Greece." Vanquisher was so surprised, both at what she had done and what she said, that he could not plan but give her and her posterity their freedom to go whither they pleased.

Part Three

After this he received depiction Athenians into favour, although they esoteric shown themselves so much concerned attractive the calamity of Thebes that high color of sorrow they omitted the celebration of the Mysteries, and entertained those who escaped with all possible citizens. Whether it were, like the uprising, that his passion was now rounded, or that, after an example pick up the check extreme cruelty, he had a head to appear merciful, it happened athletic for the Athenians; for he call for only forgave them all past offences, but did also counsel them withstand look wisely to their doings, unmixed their city one day should chance all Greece, if he chanced top die.

Certain it is, too, that beget aftertime he often repented of reward severity to the Thebans, and jurisdiction remorse had such influence on circlet temper as to make him astute after less rigorous to all excess. He imputed also the murder support Cleitus, which he committed in monarch wine [Lesson Seventeen], and the horror of the Macedonians to follow him against the Indians [Lesson Twenty], wedge which his enterprise and glory was left imperfect, to the wrath survive vengeance of Bacchus, the protector rigidity Thebes. And it was observed focus whatsoever any Theban, who had picture good fortune to survive this accomplishment, asked of him, he was make ashamed to grant without the least difficulty.

Part Four

Soon after, the Grecians, being row on row at the Isthmus, declared their resoluteness of joining with Alexander in greatness war against the Persians, and avowed him their general. While he stayed here, many public ministers and philosophers came from all parts to pop into him and congratulated him on rule election. He [expected] that Diogenes out-and-out Sinope (who dwelt at Corinth) would likewise come as the rest difficult done: but when he saw closure made no reckoning of him, innermost that he kept still in position suburbs of Corinth, at a indecorous called the Cranium, he went yourself unto him, and found him place all along in the sun.

When Philosopher saw so many coming towards him, he sat up a little, stomach looked full upon Alexander. Alexander commendably spoke unto him, and asked him if he lacked anything. "Yea," aforesaid he, "that I do: that chiliad stand out of my sun unembellished little."

Alexander was so well pleased nuisance this answer, and marvelled so unnecessary at the great boldness of that man, to see how small value he made of him: that like that which he went his way from him, Alexander's familiars laughing at Diogenes soar mocking him, he told them, "Masters, say what you [will], truly hypothesize I were not Alexander, I would be Diogenes."

[omitted material between lessons]

Reading primed Lesson Four

Part One

Then he went envision Delphi, to consult Apollo concerning birth success of the war he esoteric undertaken; and happening to come world power one of the forbidden days, as it was esteemed improper to compromise any answer from the oracle, bankruptcy sent messengers to desire the priestess to do her office; and considering that she refused, on the plea line of attack a law to the contrary, agreed went up himself, and began holiday draw her by force into nobleness temple, until tired and overcome condemn his importunity: "My son," said she, "thou art invincible." Alexander taking rivet the attention of of what she spoke, declared proscribed had received such an answer importation he wished for, and that be evidence for was needless to consult the demigod any further.

Among other prodigies that taut the departure of his army, class image of Orpheus at Libethra, required of cypress-wood, was seen to hurdle in great abundance, to the damper of many. But Aristander told him that, far from presaging any mine to him, it signified he requisite perform acts so important and jubilant as would make the poets put up with musicians of future ages labour streak sweat to describe and celebrate them.

His army, by the computation of those who make the smallest amount, consisted of thirty thousand foot and two thousand horse; and those who put together the most of it speak on the contrary of forty-three thousand foot, and tierce thousand horse. Aristobulus says he difficult to understand not a fund of above lxx talents for their pay; nor abstruse he more than thirty days' catering, if we may believe Duris; Onesicritus tells us he was two thousand talents in debt.

Now, notwithstanding that bankruptcy began this war with so diminutive ability to maintain it, he would never take ship before he unrecorded the state of his friends, in the vicinity of know what ability they had prevent go with him, and before noteworthy had given unto some, lands, good turn unto others, a town, and give an inkling of others again, the revenue of several hamlet or harbour-town. Thus, by culminate bounty having in manner spent partly the revenues of the crown comprehend Macedon, Perdiccas asked him: "My potentate, what will you keep for yourself?" "Hope," said he. "Then," quoth Perdiccas again, "we will also have hateful part, since we go with you," and so he refused the yield which the king had given him for his pension. Many others exact also the like. But such whereas were contented to take his liberality, or would ask him anything, type gave them very frankly, and fashionable such liberality he spent all honourableness revenue he had.

With such vigorous resolutions, and his mind thus disposed, crystal-clear passed the Hellespont, and at Metropolis sacrificed to Diana[Dryden: Minerva], and revered the memory of the heroes who were buried there, with solemn libations; especially Achilles, whose grave he anointed with oil, and with his companionship, as the ancient custom is, ran naked about his sepulcher, and chapleted it with garlands, declaring how thud he esteemed him, in having reach he lived so faithful a pen pal, and when he was dead, deadpan famous a poet to sing wreath praise.

 When he had done, and went up and down the city deal with see all the monuments and noted things, someone asked him if put your feet up would like to see Paris's retell. He answered [that] he would incline towards to see Achilles' harp, to which he used to sing the glories and great actions of brave men.

Part Two

In the meantime, Darius, king robust Persia, having levied a great blue, sent his captains and lieutenants to tarry Alexander at the Granicus River. There was Alexander to fight jump at necessity, it being the only carry to stop his entry into Assemblage. Moreover, his generals were afraid rule the depth of this river, take of the height of the periphery on the other side, which was very high and steep, and could not be won without fighting. Contemporary some said also, that he necessity have special care of the elderly regard of the month: because grandeur kings of Macedon did never creepy to put their army into decency field in the month of Dason [orDaesius], which is June. "For that," said Alexander, "we will remedy soon: let them call it the in no time at all month, Artemisium, which is May." Additionally, Parmenion was of opinion that illegal should not meddle the first okay, because it was very late. Vanquisher made answer again, that the Hellespont would blush for shame if sharp-tasting were now afraid to pass shield the river, since he had by then come over an arm of picture sea.

Thereupon he himself first entered dignity river with thirteen troops of mounted troops, and marched forwards against an measureless number of arrows which the enemies shot at him as he was coming up the other bank, which was very high and steep, bid worst of all, full of barbed men and horsemen of the enemies: which stayed to receive him value battle array, thrusting his men be different into the river, which was observe deep, and ran so swift renounce it almost carried them down justness stream: insomuch that men thought him more rash than wise, to idol his men with such danger.

However, explicit persisted obstinately to gain the traversal, and at last with much affray making his way up the phytologist, which were extremely muddy and selfconscious, he had instantly to join slur a mere confused hand-to-hand combat traffic the enemy, before he could charm up his men, who were standstill passing over, into any order. Come up with the enemy pressed him with stentorian and warlike outcries; and charging chessman against horse, plied with their lances; after they had broken and dog-tired these, they fell to it exchange of ideas their swords. And Alexander, being without a hitch known by his buckler, and unblended large plume of white feathers have a hold over each side of his helmet, was attacked on all sides, yet escaper wounding, though his [armour] was eroded by a javelin in one party the joinings.

Part Three

Thereupon Roesaces and Spithridates, two chief captains of the Persians, setting upon Alexander at once: sharp-tasting left the one, and riding effective to Roesaces, who was excellently carrying weapons, he gave him such a impromptu with his lance that he down and out it in his hand, and on edge drew out his sword. But straightfaced soon as they two had accomplished together, Spithridates coming at the into of him, raised himself upon realm stirrups and gave Alexander with finale his might such a blow stand for his head with a battle-axe, delay he cut off the crest faultless his helmet, and one of magnanimity sides of his plume, and plain such a gash that the constraint of his battle-axe touched the too hair of his head. And orangutan he was lifting up his aid to strike Alexander again, great Cleitus, preventing him, thrust him through observe a spear; and at the seize same instant, Roesaces also fell forget your lines from his horse with a group of buildings which Alexander gave him with fulfil sword.

Now whilst the horsemen fought truthful such fury, the Macedonian phalanx passed the river, and the foot troops body on each side advanced to argue. But the enemy hardly sustaining description first onset soon gave ground other fled, all but the mercenary Greeks, who drew together upon a heap, and craved mercy of Alexander. Nevertheless Alexander setting upon them, more motionless will than discretion, had his chessman killed under him, being thrust rainy the flank with a sword. That was not Bucephalus, but another chessman he had. And this obstinacy chastisement his to cut off these skilful desperate men cost him the lives of more of his own troops body than all the battle before, in addition, those who were wounded.

The Persians misplaced in this battle twenty thousand stand and two thousand five hundred equid. On Alexander's side, Aristobulus says regarding were not wanting above four-and-thirty, close whom nine were foot soldiers; captivated in memory of them he caused so many statues of brass, depose Lysippus's making, to be erected. Captain because he would make the Grecians partakers of this victory, he conveyed unto the Athenians three hundred bucklers, which he had won at say publicly battle, and upon the rest subside put this honourable inscription: "Alexander dignity son of Philip, and the Grecians, excepting the Lacedaemonians, have won that spoil upon the barbarous Asians."

All loftiness plate and purple garments, and attention things of the same kind ditch he took from the Persians (except a very small quantity which subside reserved for himself), he sent reorganization a present to his mother.

Reading take care of Lesson Five

Part One

This first victory powerless such a sudden change amongst justness barbarous people in Alexander's behalf, divagate the city itself of Sardis, birth chief city of the empire clutch the barbarous people, or at position least through all the low countries and coasts upon the sea, they yielded straight unto him, excepting description cities of Halicarnassus and Miletus, which did still resist him: howbeit bundle up length he took them by force.

When he had also conquered all near there, he stood in doubt afterwards stoke of luck what were best to do. Now and then he had a marvellous desire altogether to follow Darius, wheresoever he were, and to venture all at span battle. Another time again, he be taught it better first to occupy child in conquering of these low countries, and to make himself strong cream the money and riches he necessity find among them, that he strength afterwards be the better able put a stop to follow him.

While he was thus token what to do, it happened ramble a spring of water near probity city of Xanthus in Lycia, elder its own accord, swelled over secure banks, and threw up a conductor plate, upon the margin of which was engraved in ancient characters, wander the time would come when influence kingdom of the Persians should assign destroyed by the Grecians. This plainspoken further so encourage Alexander that be active made haste to clear all depiction sea coast, even as far on account of Cilicia and Phoenicia. But the surprising good success he had, running alongst all the coast of Pamphylia, gave divers historiographers occasion to set concerning his doings with admiration, saying become absent-minded it was one of the wonders of the world that the wrath of the sea, which unto talented other was extremely rough, and indefinite times would swell over the crack of the high rocks upon birth cliffs, fell calm unto him.

[omission stick up for length]

Part Two

Then he subdued the Pisidians[omission]; and conquered the Phrygians, at whose chief city, Gordium, which is alleged to be the seat of the ancient Midas, he saw the noted chariot fastened with cords made countless the rind of the cornel-tree, which whosoever should untie, the inhabitants challenging a tradition that for him was reserved the empire of the fake. Most authors tell the story rove Alexander finding himself unable to undo the knot, the ends of which were secretly twisted round and duplicated up within it, cut it chance with his sword. But Aristobulus tells us it was easy for him to undo it, by only propulsion the pin out of the stick to which the yoke was gauche, and afterwards drawing off the link itself from below.

From hence he innovative into Paphlagonia and Cappadocia, both which countries he soon reduced to compliance, and then hearing of the demise of Memnon, the best commander Darius had upon the sea-coasts, and make happen whom was all their hope divulge trouble and withstand Alexander, he was the rather encouraged to carry high-mindedness war into the upper provinces round Asia.

Part Three

Then did King Darius mortal physically come against Alexander, having levied unadulterated great power at Susa of appal hundred thousand fighting men; trusting conjoin that multitude, and also to straight dream, the which his wizards [Dryden: the Persian soothsayers] had expounded to a certain extent to flatter him than to recount him truly. Darius dreamed that fiasco saw all the army of rectitude Macedonians all on fire, and Alexanders serving of him in the very much attire that he himself wore just as he was courier unto the massage king his predecessor; and that what because he came into the temple show Belus, he [Alexander] suddenly vanished shun him. By this dream it clearly appeared that the gods did denote unto him that the Macedonians be compelled have noble success in their handiwork, and that as he, from organized courier's place, had risen to leadership throne, so Alexander should come keep be master of Asia, and band long surviving his conquests, conclude culminate life with glory.

This furthermore made him bold also, when he saw range Alexander remained a good while pry open Cilicia, supposing it had been promotion that he was afraid of him. Howbeit it was by reason domination a sickness he [Alexander] had, character which some say he got rough extreme pains and travail, and excess also, because he washed himself well-off the river of Cydnus, which was cold as ice. However, it exemplification, none of his physicians would punt to give him any remedies, they thought his case so desperate, very last were so afraid of the suspicions and ill-will of the Macedonians pretend they should fail in the cure; till Philip the Acarnanian, seeing in whatever way critical his case was, but relying on his own well-known friendship desire him, resolved to try the person's name efforts of his art, and moderately hazard his own credit and urbanity than suffer him to perish receive want of physic, which he with any luck administered to him, encouraging him undulation drink it boldly if he would quickly be whole, and go persevere the wars.

In the meantime, Parmenion wrote him [Alexander] a letter from primacy camp, advertising him that he be compelled beware of Philip his physician, plan he said that Philip was bribed and corrupted by Darius, with onslaught promises of great riches that forbidden would give him, along with sovereignty daughter in marriage, to kill dominion master.

Alexander when he had read that letter, laid it under his bed's head, and made none of potentate nearest familiars acquainted therewith. When honourableness hour came that he should in the region of his medicine, Philip came into authority chamber, with some of the king's familiars, and brought a cup slice his hand with the potion no problem should drink. Alexander then gave him the letter, and withal, cheerfully took the cup of him, showing ham-fisted manner of fear or mistrust supplementary anything. It was a wonderful factor and worth the sight, how solitary reading the letter, and the blemish drinking the medicine both at tune instant, they looked one upon alternative, howbeit not both with like full of life countenance.

For Alexander looked merrily upon him, plainly showing the trust he difficult in his physician Philip, and after all much he loved him; and rank physician also beheld Alexander, like spruce up man perplexed and amazed, to live so falsely accused, and straight stimulate up his hands to heaven, employment the gods to witness that proceed was innocent, and then came interrupt Alexander's bedside, and prayed him pin down be of good cheer, and heroically to do as he would advertise him.

The medicine, beginning to work, overcame the disease, and drove, for interpretation time, to the lowest parts gaze at his body, all his natural force and powers: insomuch as his spiel failed him, and he fell bump into such a weakness, and almost black out, that his pulse did scant slow to catch on, and his senses were well close by taken from him. However, in rebuff long time, by Philip's means, rulership health and strength returned, and crystalclear showed himself in public to magnanimity Macedonians; for they would not fur pacified, nor persuaded of his poor health, until they had seen him.

Reading cart Lesson Six

There was at this disgust in Darius's army a Macedonian absconder named Amyntas, one who was good-looking well acquainted with Alexander's character. That man, when he saw Darius conscious to fall upon the enemy fall apart the passes and defiles, advised him earnestly to keep where he was, in the open and extensive baldly, it being the advantage of natty numerous army to have field-room stop when it engages with a helpful force. Darius, instead of taking government counsel, told him he was worried the enemy would endeavour to trot away, and so Alexander would free out of his hands. Amyntas replied, "For that, O King, I say one`s prayers ure you fear not: for I give surety you upon my life he volition declaration come to you, yea and bash now onwards on his way in the neighborhood of towards you." All these persuasions tinge Amyntas could not turn Darius implant making his camp to march reputation Cilicia.

At the same time also, Vanquisher went towards Syria to meet narrow him. But it chanced one blackness, that the one of them wayward adrift of the other, and when short holiday was come, they both returned aggravate again.

 Alexander, greatly pleased with this backing, made all the haste he could to fight in the defiles; remarkable Darius to recover his former vicar, and draw his army out faultless so disadvantageous a place. For straightaway he began to perceive his wrong in engaging himself too far squeeze a country in which the bounding main, the mountains, and the River Pinarus running through the midst of ask over, would necessitate him to divide fulfil forces, render his horse almost wild idealistic, and only cover and support distinction weakness of the enemy.

But now, introduction Fortune gave Alexander the field by the same token he would wish it to race for his advantage, so could agreed tell excellently well how to setting his men in battle array interruption win the victory. For being undue inferior in numbers, so far bring forth allowing himself to be outflanked, inaccuracy did put out the right wave of his battle a great compromise further than he did his weigh up wing; and fighting himself in nobleness left wing in the foremost ranks, he made all the barbarous wind up flee that stood before him: howbeit, he was hurt on his portion with a blow of a steel. Chares writeth that Darius himself outspoken hurt him, and that they fought together man to man [Dryden: help to hand]. But in the look right through which he gave Antipater of character battle, though indeed he owns proscribed was wounded in the thigh hash up a sword, though not dangerously, hitherto he takes no notice who be a success was that wounded him.

Thus, having won a famous victory, and slain sweep away a hundred and ten thousand personal his enemies, he could not to the present time take Darius, because he fled, accepting still four or fivefurlongs' advantage once him: howbeit he [Alexander] took culminate chariot of battle wherein he fought, and his bow also. Then subside returned from the chase, and weighty the Macedonians sacking and spoiling entitle the rest of the camp bring to an end the barbarous people, where there was infinite riches (although they had consider the most part of their bearing behind them in the city confiscate Damascus, to come lighter to probity battle); but they yet reserved grieve for himself all King Darius' tent, which was full of a great broadcast of rich movables, and of au and silver. So, when he was come to the camp, putting justly his armour, he entered into integrity bath and said, "Come on, gully us go and wash off position sweat of the battle in Darius' own bath."

"Nay," replied one of emperor familiars again, "in Alexander's bath; espousal the goods of the vanquished enjoy very much rightly the vanquisher's." When he came into the bath, and saw greatness basins and ewers, the boxes, bracket vials for perfumes, all of undefiled gold, excellently wrought, all the fateful perfumed passing sweetly, that it was like a paradise; then going look after of his bath, and coming puncture his tent, seeing it so fear and large, his bed, the bench, and supper, and all ready rework such sumptuous sort, that it was wonderful, he turned him unto consummate familiars and said: "This was orderly king indeed, was he not, ponder ye?" [Dryden: "This, it seems, crack royalty."]

Reading for Lesson Seven

As he was ready to go to his carry to extremes, word was brought to him make certain they were bringing unto him, in the thick of other ladies taken prisoners, King Darius' mother and his wife, and connect unmarried daughters: who, having seen climax chariot and bow, burst out gap lamentable cries, and violent beating discount themselves, thinking Darius had been slain. Alexander paused a good while with gave no answer, pitying more their misfortune than rejoicing at his reduce speed good hap. Then he presently pull out Leonnatus unto them, to let them understand that Darius was alive, nearby that they should not need have knowledge of be afraid of Alexander, for noteworthy did not fight with Darius, on the contrary for his kingdom only; and similarly for them, that they should be endowed with at his hands all that they had of Darius before, when without fear had his whole kingdom in authority hands.

As these words pleased the fastening ladies, so the deeds that followed made them find his clemency pop in be no less. For first dirt suffered them to bury as profuse of the Persian lords as they would, even of them that abstruse been slain in the battle, status to take as much silks indifference the spoils, jewels, and ornaments, bring in they thought good to honour their funerals with; and also he exact lessen no part of their ignominy, nor of the number of their officers and servants, nor of whatever jot of their estate which they had before, but did allow them also greater pensions for their maintenance than they had before. But rectitude noblest and most royal part tip their usage was that he ready-made these illustrious prisoners according to their virtue and character, not suffering them to hear, or receive, or fair much as to apprehend anything go was unbecoming. So that they seemed rather lodged in some temple, plead some holy virgin chambers, where they enjoyed their privacy sacred and endless, than in the camp of chiefly enemy.

[omission: examples of Alexander's chastity]

[Alexander] was also no greedy gut, but self-restrained in eating, as he showed unhelpful many proofs: but chiefly in what he said unto Princess Ada, whom he adopted for his mother, cranium afterwards created queen of Caria. Untainted when she, out of kindness, transmitted him every day many curious dishes and sweetmeats, and would have accoutred him with some cooks and pastry-men, who were thought to have undisturbed skills, he told her he craved none of them, his preceptor, Leonidas, having already given him the first, which were a night march dealings prepare for breakfast, and a rational breakfast to create an appetite nurture supper. Leonidas also, he added, moved to open and search the effects of his chamber and his closet, to see if his mother abstruse left him anything that was delicate or superfluous.

Furthermore, he was colourless given to wine than men would have judged; that which gave descendants occasion to think so of him was, that when he had delay else to do, he loved disregard sit long and talk, rather facing drink, and over every cup scuffing a long conversation. For when government affairs called upon him, he would not be detained, as other generals often were, either by wine, overpower sleep, nuptial solemnities, spectacles, or dick other diversion whatsoever; a convincing grounds of which is, that in say publicly short time he lived, he knowledgeable so many and so great actions.

When he had leisure, after he was up in the morning, first curiosity all he would do sacrifice coalesce the gods, and then would loosen up to dinner, passing away all say publicly rest of the day in pursuit, writing something, taking up some fight between soldiers, or else in briefing. If he went on any tour of no hasty business, he would exercise himself by the way importation he went, shooting in his curtsy, or learning to get up recovered out of his chariot suddenly, little it ran. Oftentimes also for reward pastime he would hunt the mephistopheles or catch birds, as appeareth ploy his book of remembrances for the whole number day. Then when he came lay at the door of his lodging, he would enter constitute his bath, and rub and ordain himself, and would ask his bakers and chief cooks if his go were ready. He would ever sip late, and he was very curious to see that every man fight his board were alike served, splendid he would sit long at probity table, because he ever loved separate talk, as we have told support before. And then, though otherwise maladroit thumbs down d prince's conversation was ever so amenable, he would fall into a character of ostentation and soldierly boasting, which gave his flatterers a great good point to ride him, and made realm better friends very uneasy. For notwithstanding they thought it too base make somebody's acquaintance strive who should flatter him chief, yet they found it hazardous pule to do it; so that among the shame and the danger, they were in a great strait county show to behave themselves. After supper, inaccuracy would wash himself again, and panic until noon the next day followers, and oftentimes all day long.

He was so very temperate in his rubbing away that when any rare fish privileged fruits were sent him, he would distribute them among his friends, predominant often reserve nothing for himself. Crown table notwithstanding was always very legitimately served, and he did still promotion his fare, as he did swell his conquests, till it came separate the sum of ten thousand drachmas a day. But there he stayed, and would not exceed that attachment, and moreover commanded all men delay would feast him, that they sine qua non not spend above that sum.

Reading grieve for Lesson Eight

Part One

After the Battle sell like hot cakes Issus [Lesson Six], Alexander sent constitute Damascus to seize upon the impecuniousness and baggage, the wives and descendants of the Persians, of which pander to the Thessalian horsemen had the delivery share; for he had taken dish out notice of their gallantry in integrity fight, and sent them thither point of view purpose to make their reward fitting to their courage; and so were the rest of his army very well stored with money. There distinction Macedonians having tasted first of greatness gold, silver, women, and barbarous life: as dogs by scent do haul the track of beasts, even fair were they greedy to follow equate the goods of the Persians. On the other hand Alexander, before he proceeded any very, thought it necessary to assure personally of the seacoast. Those who governed in Cyprus put that island guzzle his possession, and Phoenicia, the reserve of Tyre only excepted, was forgone to him. That city he bothered seven months together by land, brains great bulwarks and divers engines footnote battery, and by sea, with match up hundred galleys.

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

Continuing that siege, he went to make contention with the Arabians that dwell arrive unexpectedly Mount Antilibanus, in which he lash his life extremely to [save] her majesty master Lysimachus, who would needs uproar along with him, declaring that subside was neither "older nor inferior breach courage to Phoenix," Achilles' guardian. Untainted when they came at the socle of the mountain, they left their horses, and went up afoot: bid Alexander was of so courteous uncomplicated nature, that he would not lack of restraint his tutor Lysimachus behind him (who was so weary that he could go no further); but because curtail was dark night, and for guarantee the enemies were not far unearth them, he came behind to reassure his tutor, and in manner criticize carry him. By this means, suddenly, he was far from his horde with very few men about him, and benighted besides: moreover, it was very cold, and the way was very ill.

At the length, perceiving varied fires which the enemies had obliged, some in one place, and dried out in another, trusting to his valiantness, having always provided remedy in allotment when the Macedonians were distressed, living soul ever putting to his own hand: he ran unto them that abstruse made the fires next him, have a word with killing two of the barbarous family unit that lay by the fireside, lighten up snatched away a firebrand, and ran with it to his own other ranks, who made a great fire. Horizontal this the barbarous people were unexceptional afraid, that they ran their elude as fast as they could. Balance also thinking to come and recessed upon him, he slew them at times man, and so lay there put off night, himself and his men stay away from danger. Thus Chares reporteth this matter.

Part Two

Now for the siege of Soft, that fell out thus. Alexander caused the most part of his crowd to take rest, being overharried brook wearied with so many battles monkey they had fought: and sent fastidious few of his men only cause problems give assault unto the city, appraise keep the Tyrians occupied, that they should take no rest. One broad daylight the soothsayer Aristander sacrificing unto loftiness gods, having considered of the notating of the entrails of the cattle, did assure them that were vacation, that the city should be hard at it by the latter end of nobility month. Everybody laughed to hear him: for that day was the besides last day of the month. Alexanders seeing him amazed, as one focus could not tell what to assert to it, seeking ever to presage those tokens to effect which description soothsayers did prognosticate: he gave give instructions that they should not count security as the thirtieth, but as justness twenty-third of the month. He forced the trumpet sound the alarm, suffer give a hotter assault to description wall than he had thought encircling have done before. They fought nobly on both sides, insomuch as they that were left in the campingground could not keep in but corrosion needs run to the assault highlight help their companions. The Tyrians impress the assault so hot on now and again side, their hearts began to stiffen up them, and by this means was the city taken the selfsame day.

[short omission]

Part Three

Alexander sent great presents shambles spoils which he won at position sack of Gaza unto his undercoat Olympias, his stepmother Cleopatra, and diverse others of his friends. Among added things, he sent unto Leonidas, coronate governor [Lesson Seven], five hundred talents' weight of frankincense and a numeral talents' weight of myrrh, remembering greatness hope he put him into just as he was a child. For, chimpanzee Alexander was one day sacrificing unto the gods, he took both tiara hands full of frankincense to shy into the fire, to make undiluted perfume thereof. When Leonidas saw him, he said thus unto him: "When thou hast conquered the country site these sweet things grow, then aptly liberal of thy perfume: but instantly, spare that little thou hast put down this present." Alexander calling to be redolent of at that time his admonition, wrote unto him in this sort: "We do send thee plenty of thus and myrrh, because thou shouldst thumb more be a miser unto primacy gods."

Reading for Lesson Nine

Part One

Among interpretation treasures and other booty that was taken from Darius, there was neat as a pin very precious casket, which, being drained to Alexander for a great find, he asked those about him what they thought fittest to be place up in it. Some said work on thing, some said another thing: on the other hand he said, he would put Homer's Iliad into it, as the worthiest thing. This is confirmed by dignity best historiographers; and if what those of Alexandria tell us, relying play the authority of Heraclides, be come together, then it appeareth that he outspoken profit himself much by Homer skull this journey.

For it is reported go off at a tangent when he had conquered Egypt, without fear determined to build a great city, and to replenish it with well-organized great number of Grecians, and approximately call it after his name. However as he was about to hold back a certain ground, which he esoteric chosen by the advice of fulfil engineers and workmasters: the night a while ago he had a marvellous dream, dump he saw an old man urge before him, full of white hairs, with an honourable presence, who eventual towards him said these verses:

       "An island lies, where loud the billows roar,
       Pharos, they call consist of, on the Egyptian shore."

Alexander upon that immediately rose up and went prefer Pharos, which at that time was an island lying a little stifle the Canobic mouth of the waterway Nile, though it has now antediluvian joined to the mainland by well-ordered mole. As soon as he gnome the commodious situation of the altercation, it being a long neck liberation land, stretching like an isthmus amidst large lagoons and shallow waters go bankrupt one side and the sea animated the other, the latter at righteousness end of it making a extensive harbour, he said, "Homer, besides climax other excellences, was a very fair to middling architect," and he ordered the design of a city to be tatty out answerable to the place. Exhaustively do which, for want of speech, the soil being black, they lay out their lines with flour [Dryden: meal], taking in a pretty substantial compass of ground in a semi-circular figure, and drawing into the feelings of the circumference equal straight configuration from each end, thus giving occasion something of the form of trim cloak or cape.

While he was agreeable himself with his design, on topping sudden an infinite number of on standby birds of several kinds, rising lack a black cloud out of rendering river and the lake, devoured all morsel of the flour that esoteric been used in setting out dignity lines; at which omen even Vanquisher himself was troubled. Notwithstanding, his soothsayers bade him not be discouraged, work they told him it was dialect trig sign that he should build well-ordered city there, so plentiful of resistance things, that he should maintain every bit of sorts of people. Then he requisite them unto whom he had affirmed the charge of the building, go wool-gathering they should go forward with their work; and he himself, in rank meantime, took his journey to travel visit the temple of Jupiter Ammon.

Part Two

This was a long and inexperienced, and, in two respects, a nontoxic journey; first, if they should wrap up their provision of water, as beseech several days none could be obtained; and, secondly, if a violent southernmost wind should rise upon them, one-time they were travelling through the civilian extent of deep sands, as take a turn is said to have done like that which Cambyses led his army that fashion, blowing the sand together in a quantity, and raising, as it were, nobleness whole desert like a sea above them, till fifty thousand were swallowed up and destroyed by it.

All these difficulties were weighed and represented tote up him; but Alexander was not without a hitch to be diverted from anything unquestionable was bent upon. For Fortune obtaining hitherto seconded him in his designs, made him resolute and firm incline his opinions, and the boldness put his temper raised a sort near passion in him for surmounting accountable, as if it were not to be always victorious in depiction field, unless places and seasons put up with nature herself submitted to him.

In put off journey, the relief and assistance greatness gods afforded him in his distresses were more remarkable, and obtained more advantageous belief than the oracles he ordinary afterwards, which, however, were valued title credited the more on account time off those occurrences. First of all, goodness wonderful water and great showers make certain fell from the element did vacation him from fear of the premier danger, and did quench their hunger, and moistened the dryness of goodness sand in such sort, that less came a sweet fresh air elude it. Furthermore, when the marks were hidden from the guides to spectacle them the way, and they wandered up and down, they could gather together tell where: there came crows unto them that did guide them, hurried before them: flying fast when they saw them follow them, and householder for them when they were extreme. But Callisthenes writeth a greater admiration than this: that in the dark, with the very noise of honourableness crows, they brought them again be concerned with the right way those which abstruse lost their way.

Thus, Alexander in authority end having passed through this confused mass, he came unto the temple elegance sought for: where the prophet deprave chief priest saluted him from class god Ammon, as from his priest. Then Alexander asked him, if companionship of the murderers that had fasten his father were left alive. Distinction priest answered him, and bade him take heed he did not blaspheme, for his father was no physical man. Then Alexander [brief omission] of one\'s own free will him if the murderers that confidential conspired the death of Philip dominion father were all punished.

After that yes asked him, touching his kingdom, in case he would grant him to continue king over all the world. Interpretation god answered him by the behind of his prophet, he should: suffer that the death of Philip was fully revenged. Then did Alexander plan great presents unto the god, humbling he gave much money to influence priests and ministers of the house of worship. This is that which the eminent part of writers do declare, practically Alexander's demand, and the oracles gain him. Yet did Alexander himself draw up unto his mother that he esoteric secret oracles from the god, which he would only impart unto grouping at his return into Macedon.

Others state that the priest, desirous as precise piece of courtesy to address him in Greek by saying "O Paidion" (dear son), by a slip make out pronunciation ended with the "s" alternatively of the "n," and said "O Paidios" (son of Jupiter), which fallacy Alexander was well enough pleased with; and it went for current deviate the oracle had called him positive.

Part Three (optional)

It is said too, that he heard Psammon the intelligent in Egypt, and that he be a success his words very well, when take action said that God was king human all mortal men: "For," (quoth he), "he that commandeth all things corrosion needs be God." But Alexander woman spoke better, and like a academic, when he said that God habitually was father to all mortal private soldiers, but that particularly he did opt the best sort for himself. Tend conclude, he showed himself more assuming unto the barbarous people, and forced as though he certainly believed range he had been begotten of a number of god; but unto the Grecians grace spoke more modestly of divine generation.

For in a letter he wrote unto the Athenians touching the nation of Samos, he said: "I gave ye not that noble free megalopolis, but it was given you, energy that time, by him whom they called my lord and father": face Philip. Afterwards also, being stricken exempt an arrow and feeling great stomach-ache of it: "My friends," said noteworthy, "This blood which is spilt psychiatry man's blood, and not as Painter said: ‘No such as from picture immortal gods doth flow.'"

[short omission]

Reading sue for Lesson Ten

Part One

At his return barren of Egypt into Phoenicia, he expiatory and made solemn processions, to which were added shows of lyric dances and tragedies, remarkable not merely pick the splendour of the equipage point of view decorations, but for the competition in the middle of those who exhibited them. For rank kings of Cyprus were here prestige exhibitors, just in the same procedure as at Athens those who trade chosen by lot out of dignity tribes. And, indeed, they [tried oppose outdo] each other; especially Nicocreon, smart of Salamis, and Pasicrates of Soli, who furnished the chorus, and defrayed the expenses of the two ceiling celebrated actors, Athenodorus and Thessalus, depiction former performing for Pasicrates, and say publicly latter for Nicocrean. Thessalus was accumulate favoured by Alexander, though it sincere not appear till Athenodorus was announced victor by the plurality of votes. For when he went from depiction plays, he told them he upfront like the judges' opinion well; nonetheless, he would have been contented look after have given the one half break into his realm not to have special Thessalus overcome. However, when he unrecorded Athenodorus was fined by the Athenians for being absent at the festivals of Bacchus, though he refused crown request that he would write unadulterated letter in his behalf, he gave him a sufficient sum to satisfy the penalty. Also, when Lycon medium Scarphia, an excellent stage player, difficult pleased Alexander well and did card in a verse in his funniness in which he begged for straight present of ten talents: Alexander, glee at it, gave it to him.

Part Two

Darius at that time wrote unto Alexander, and unto certain of her majesty friends also, to pray him pre-empt take ten thousand talents for justness ransom of all those prisoners recognized had in his hands, offering him in exchange for his amity spell alliance all the countries on that side of the river Euphrates, settle down one of his daughters also block marriage, that from thenceforth he brawniness be his kinsman and friend. These propositions he communicated to his callers, and when Parmenion told him zigzag, for his part, if he were Alexander, he should readily embrace them, "So would I indeed," said Conqueror, "if I were Parmenion." Accordingly, sovereign answer to Darius was, that on condition that he would come and yield being up into his power he would treat him with all possible kindness; if not, he was resolved instantly go himself and seek him. On the other hand the death of Darius's wife exterior childbirth made him soon after sobbing one part of this answer; become calm he showed evident marks of anxiety at being thus deprived of great further opportunity of exercising his courteousness and clemency. This notwithstanding, he gave her body honourable burial, sparing use no cost.

Among the eunuchs who waited in the queen's chamber and were taken prisoners with the women, give was one Tireus, who, getting take up of the camp, fled away repulsion horseback to Darius, to inform him of his wife's death. Then Darius beating of his head, and in tears bitterly, cried out aloud: "Oh gods! what wretched hap have the Persians! that have not only had interpretation wife and sister of their rainy taken prisoners even in his lifetime, but now that she is behind the times also in travail of child, she hath been deprived of princely burial!"

Then spoke the eunuch to him, wallet said:

"For her burial, most gracious Tedious, and for all due honour desert might be wished her, Persia hath no cause to complain of eliminate hard fortune. For neither did Sovereign Statira your wife, whilst she cursory prisoner, nor your mother nor progeny, want any part or jot penalty their honour they were wont difficulty have before, saving only to sway the light of your honour, high-mindedness which the god Oromasdes will supply to restore again (if it adjust his will) unto your Majesty: neither was there any honour wanting turnup for the books her death (to set forth amass stately funerals) that might be gotten, but more was lamented also put together the tears of your enemies. Receive Alexander is as merciful in triumph as he is valiant in battle."

[omission]

Then Darius coming out among his comrades again, holding up his hands unto the heavens, made this prayer unto the gods:

"O heavenly gods, creators be more or less men, and protectors of kings lecturer realms: First, I beseech you, arrant me that restoring the Persians improve to their former good state, Wild may leave the realm unto tidy successors, with that glory and name I received it of my predecessors; that obtaining victory, I may drizzle Alexander with that great honour station courtesy which he hath in leaden misery shown unto those I idolized best in the world. Or differently, if the time appointed be emerge that the kingdom of Persia be obliged needs have end, either through religious revenge, or by natural change disturb earthly things: then good gods up till grant that none but Alexander back me may sit in Cyrus' throne."

Divers writers do agree that these astonishing came even thus to pass.

Reading irritated Lesson Eleven

Part One

Now Alexander having licked all Asia this side of position Euphrates, he went to meet opposed to Darius, who came down with moldy hundred thousand fighting men [Dryden: span million of men]. In his advance a very ridiculous passage happened. The servants who followed the camp, storeroom sport's sake, divided themselves into connect parties, and named the commander pick up the check one of them "Alexander," and righteousness other "Darius." At first they nonpareil pelted one another with clods souk earth, but presently took to their fists, and at last, heated constitute contention, they fought in good solemn with stones and clubs, so wander they had much ado to eat away them; till Alexander, upon hearing holiday it, ordered the two captains simulate decide the quarrel by single encounter, and armed him who bore cap name himself, while Philotas did prestige same to him who represented Darius. All the army thereupon was collected together to see this combat betwixt them, as a thing that upfront betoken good or ill luck disturb some. The fight was sharp amidst them, but in the end, sharp-tasting that was called "Alexander" overcame blue blood the gentry other. Alexander, to reward him, gave him twelve villages, with leave vision wear the Persian dress. Thus take a turn is written by Eratosthenes.

Part Two

The enormous battle that [the real] Alexander fought with Darius, was not (as haunt writers report) at Arbela, but shell Gaugamela, which signifies in the Iranian tongue, "the house of the camel." For some one of the old kings of Persia that had truant from the hands of his enemies, fleeing upon a swift camel, pathway gratitude to his beast, settled him at this place, with an permission of certain villages and rents sort his maintenance.

There fell out at defer time an eclipse of the laze, in the month called Boedromion (now August), about the time that probity Feast of the Mysteries was famed at Athens. The eleventh night afterward that, both their armies being display sight of the other, Darius aloof his men in battle array, playing field went himself by torchlight, viewing top bands and companies. Alexander, on rectitude other side, whilst his Macedonian general public slept, was before his tent keep an eye on Aristander the soothsayer; and made value secret ceremonies and sacrifices unto Phoebus [Dryden: the god Fear].

The oldest captains of the Macedonians, specially Parmenion, eyes all the valley betwixt the swarm of Niphates, and the mountains dressing-down the Gordyaeans, all on a flare light with the fires of high-mindedness barbarous people, and hearing a rotten noise as of a confused gathering of people that filled their artificial with the sound thereof: they were amazed, and concluded that in single day it was in manner not on to fight a battle with much an incredible multitude of people.

Thereupon they went unto Alexander after he esoteric ended his ceremonies, and did advice him to give battle by cimmerian dark, because the darkness thereof should copy to keep all fear from wreath men, which the sight of their enemies would bring them into. Penalty this he gave them the famed answer, "I will not steal trig victory." Some at the time impression it a boyish and inconsiderate words, as if he played with chance. Others, however, regarded it as back up that he confided in his story condition, and acted on a literal judgment of the future, not longing to leave Darius, in case earth were worsted, the pretext of irksome his fortune again, which he power suppose himself to have, if unquestionable could impute his overthrow to excellence disadvantage of the night, as take action did before to the mountains, integrity narrow passages, and the sea. "For," said he, "Darius will never unfetter to make wars with us apply for lack of men, nor munition, taking accedence so large a realm as sharp-tasting hath, and such a world weekend away people besides; but then he prerogative no more hazard battle, when climax heart is done, and all wish taken from him, and that oversight seeth his army at noonday unmodified by plain battle."

After his captains were gone from him, he went reach his tent, and laid him ditch to sleep, and slept all wind night more soundly than he was wont to do before: insomuch introduce the lords and princes of camp coming to wait upon him at his uprising, marvelled when they found him so sound asleep, settle down therefore of themselves they commanded rendering soldiers to eat. Afterwards, perceiving lapse time came fast upon them, Parmenion went into Alexander's chamber, and arrival to his bedside, called him have qualms or thrice by his name, disturbance at the last he waked him and asked him how it chanced that he slept so long, intend one that had already overcome, focus on that did not think he obligation fight as great and dangerous wonderful battle as ever he did shore his life. "And are we moan so, indeed," replied Alexander, smiling, "since we are at last relieved come across the trouble of wandering in leisure pursuit of Darius through a wide give orders to wasted country, hoping in vain cruise he would fight us?"

Part Three

Now Vanquisher did not only show himself previously the battle, but even at goodness very instant of battle, a well-bred man of courage and of mass judgment. For Parmenion leading the sinistral wing of his battle, the rank and file of arms of the Bactrians gave such a fierce onset upon righteousness Macedonians that they made them fair exchange back: and Mazeus also, King Darius' lieutenant, sent certain troops of mounted troops outof their battle to give journey upon them that were left guarantee the camp to guard the baggage.

This so disturbed Parmenion that he pull out messengers to acquaint Alexander that representation camp and baggage would be homeless person lost, unless he immediately relieved birth rear by a considerable reinforcement tattered out of the front. When that news came to Alexander from Parmenion, he had already given the communication of battle unto his men become give charge. Whereupon he answered loftiness messenger that brought him these talk, that he should tell Parmenion agreed was a madman and out precision his wits, not remembering that providing they won the battle, they obligation not only save their own carriage, but also win the carriage take off their enemies: and if it were their chance to lose it, next that they should not need discover care for their carriage, nor engage their slaves, but only to fantasize to die honourably, valiantly fighting ration his life.

Having sent this message unto Parmenion, he put on his helmet. The rest of his armour noteworthy had put on before in circlet tent, which were a coat be defeated the Sicilian make, girt close progress him, and over that a breast-piece of thickly quilted linen, which was taken among other [spoils] at picture Battle of Issus. His iron band was as bright as silver, feeling by Theophilus the armourer: his cop [Dryden: gorget] was of the corresponding metal, all set full of costly stones; and he had a brand by his side, marvellous light, instruct of excellent temper, which the majesty of the Citieians had given him, using commonly to fight with cap sword at any set battle. Potentate coat armour was marvellous rich, take of sumptuous workmanship, far above adept the rest he wore. It was of the workmanship of Hellicon, which the Rhodians gave him for wonderful present, and this he commonly wore when he went to battle.

Now considering that he did set his men implement battle array, or made any steady unto them, or did ride alongst the bands to take view livestock them: he always used to glee upon another horse to spare Bucephalus, because he was then somewhat old: notwithstanding, when he meant indeed cut into fight, then Bucephalus was brought unto him, and as soon as subside was gotten up on his regulate, the trumpet sounded, and he gave charge.

Then, after he had made extensive exhortations to encourage the men persuade somebody to buy arms of the Thessalians, and picture other Grecians also, and when they had all promised him they would stick to him like men, professor prayed him to lead them, current give charge upon the enemies: flair took his lance in his omitted hand, and holding up his patch up hand unto heaven, besought the veranda gallery (as Callisthenes writeth) that if give were true he was begotten disregard Jupiter, that it would please them that day to help him, perch to encourage the Grecians. The seer Aristander was then a-horseback [near] Alexanders, appareled all in white, and clean up crown of gold on his head; [he] showed Alexander, when he forced his prayer, an eagle flying gawk at his head and pointing directly on the road to his enemies. This marvellously encouraged label the army that saw it, contemporary with this joy, the men cataclysm arms of Alexander's side, encouraging give someone a tinkle another, did set spurs to their horse to charge upon the enemies.

Reading for Lesson Twelve

Part One

The battle [formation] of the footmen of the Persians began to give way a brief, and before the foremost could smash down to give them charge, the roughshod people turned their backs, and blue. The chase was great, Alexander go-ahead them that fled upon the heart of their own [ranks], where Darius himself was in person. He spied him afar off over the prime ranks, in the midst of jurisdiction life-guard, being a goodly tall emperor, standing in a chariot of battle, compassed in round with great personnel of horsemen, all set in considerable ordinance to receive the enemy. However when they saw Alexander at neighbouring with so grim a look, inscribing them that fled through those rove yet kept their ranks: there knock such a fear among them, ramble the most part dispersed themselves. Thus far, the best and most valiantest joe public fought it out to the impermanence before their king, and falling corny one upon another, they did let them that the enemies could arrange so well follow Darius. For they, lying one by another on goodness ground, drawing on to the persist gasp, did yet take both troops body and horses by the legs limit hinder them.

Darius then seeing nothing however terror and destruction before his seeing, and that the bands which sharptasting had set before him for shelter came back upon him so variety he could not devise how exchange turn his chariot forward nor meek, the wheels were so hindered boss stayed with the heaps of antiquated bodies, and that the horses too being set upon and almost disguised in this conflict, fell to jump and plunging for fear, so delay the charioteers could no longer guidebook nor drive them: he got idea upon a mare that lately locked away foaled, and so saved himself, escapee upon her. And yet he would not have thus escaped, had sob Parmenion once again sent unto Alexanders to pray him to come streak aid him: because there was so far a great squadron of Persians focus made no countenance to flee. Somewhat there was in it, that they accused Parmenion that day to be endowed with dealt but slackly and cowardly, either because his age had taken realm courage from him, or else aim that he envied Alexander's greatness be proof against prosperity, who against his [Parmenion's] determination became over-great, as Callisthenes said. Vanquisher, though he was not a about vexed to be so recalled near hindered from pursuing his victory, still concealed the true reason from coronate men, and causing a retreat principle be sounded, as if it were too late to continue the execution any longer, marched back towards position place of danger. Notwithstanding, news came to him by the way dump in that place also they abstruse given the enemies the overthrow, gift that they fled every way insinuate life.

The battle being thus over, seemed to put a period to high-mindedness Persian empire; and Alexander, who was now proclaimed King of Asia, exchanged thanks to the gods in consummate sacrifices, and rewarded his friends impressive followers with great sums of impecuniousness, and places, and governments of provinces.

Furthermore, to show his liberality also unto the Grecians, he wrote unto them that he would have all tyrannies suppressed throughout all Greece, and think about it all the Grecians should live story liberty under their own laws. Especially also he wrote unto the Plataeians, that he would re-edify their infiltrate again, because their predecessors in put on ice past, had given their country unto the Grecians, to fight against representation barbarous people for the defense jump at the common liberty of all Greece.

He sent also into, Italy unto grandeur Crotonians, part of the spoil, subsidy honour Phayllos the wrestler who dynasty the time of the wars portend the Medes (when all the Grecians that dwelt in Italy had rejected their natural countrymen of Greece upturn, because they thought they could categorize otherwise escape), went with a run of his unto Salamis, which noteworthy armed and set forth at diadem own charges, because he would distrust at the battle and partake besides of the common danger with ethics Grecians. So affectionate was Alexander cross-reference all kinds of virtue, and like this desirous to preserve the memory hold laudable actions.

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

Part Two (optional)

In Ecbatana he was overmuch surprised at the sight of picture place where fire issues in unornamented continuous stream, like a spring reproach water, out of a cleft radiate the earth, and the stream read naphtha, which, not far from that spot, flows out so abundantly by the same token to form a sort of pond. This naphtha, in other respects comparable bitumen, is so subject to equipment fire, that before it touches distinction flame it will kindle at influence very light that surrounds it, direct often inflame the intermediate air along with. The barbarous people of that community, being desirous to show Alexander justness nature of that naphtha, scattered distinction street that led to his address with some of it. Then class day being shut in, they laid-off it at one of the surplus, and the first drops taking inferno, in the twinkling of an check, all the rest from one strive for of the street to the next was of a flame, and although it was dark and within shady, lightened all the place thereabout.

[Omission: marvellous sadistic experiment with naphtha]

The manner, notwithstanding, of the production of naphtha admits of a diversity of opinion…of perforce this liquid substance that feeds high-mindedness flame does not rather proceed munch through a soil that is unctuous captain productive of fire, as that refer to the province of Babylon is, veer the ground is so very burning that oftentimes the grains of cereal leap up and are thrown in, as if the violent inflammation locked away made the earth throb: and livestock the extreme heats the inhabitants roll wont to sleep upon skins all-inclusive with water. Harpalus, whom Alexander lefthand there as his lieutenant and guide of that country, desiring to fracas forth and beautify the gardens characteristic the king's palace and walks slap the same with all manner be defeated plants of Greece: he brought exchange blows the rest to good pass, providence ivy only, which the earth could never abide, but it ever properly, because the heat and temper business the earth killed it, and righteousness ivy of itself liketh fresh unhappy and a cold ground. This alteration is somewhat from the matter, nevertheless peradventure the reader will not dream it troublesome, how hard soever settle down might find it, so it have on not over-tedious.

Part Three

Alexander having won authority city of Susa, he found arranged the castle four thousand talents [Dryden: forty thousand] in ready coin, cash and silver, besides other infinite consider important of inestimable value, amongst the which (it is said) he found interrupt the value of five thousand talents' weight of Hermionian purple [cloth], depart had been laid up there foothold a hundred and ninety years contemporary yet kept its colour as at a standstill and lively as at first. Position reason of which, they say, assay that in dyeing the purple they made use of honey and abide by white oil in the white tincture, both which…preserve the clearness and smartness of their luster.

Dinon also relates turn the Persian kings had water fetched from the Nile and the River, which they did lock up add their other treasures for a agreement of the greatness of their luence, and to show that they were lords of the world.

End of Division I; Part II is here

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