Author Description
Introduction. From Cleopatra To Ptolemy -- The Young Ptolemy -- Invading Persia With Alexander -- The Campaign In Afghanistan -- To India And Back -- Ptolemy And The Rise Of The Successors -- From Babylon To Egypt -- Ptolemy Under Attack -- Alexander's Corpse -- From Satrap To King -- First Among Equals -- Ptolemy And Egypt -- The End -- And Beyond -- Appendix 1. Ptolemy's History Of Alexander -- Appendix 2. The Sources Of Information. Ian Worthington. Includes Bibliographical References And Index.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This work investigates the political and military evolution of Ptolemy I Soter, examining how he transitioned from a subordinate general under Alexander the Great to the founder of the Ptolemaic dynasty in Egypt. Ian Worthington, a professor of ancient history, utilizes primary source analysis and historical records to reconstruct the life of one of the most significant figures of the Hellenistic period. The book argues that Ptolemy's success was rooted in his pragmatic leadership, strategic foresight, and his calculated efforts to legitimize his rule through the control of Alexander's legacy.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- A chronological account of Ptolemy's life from his early years to his reign as Pharaoh.
- Analysis of the military campaigns in Persia, Afghanistan, and India.
- Examination of the political maneuvering among the Successors (Diadochi) following Alexander's death.
- Discussion of the acquisition and symbolic importance of Alexander's corpse.
Scope Limits
- The text does not provide an exhaustive cultural history of the entire Ptolemaic dynasty beyond the reign of Ptolemy I.
- It does not focus on the daily lives of the Egyptian populace, remaining centered on the political and military elite.
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Scholars and readers frequently note the clarity of Worthington's prose, which makes complex Hellenistic political dynamics accessible to a general audience. Experts highlight this as a balanced and well-researched account that successfully navigates the limitations of the surviving ancient source material.
Page Count:
0
Publication Date:
2016-11-01
ISBN-10:
0190620129
ISBN-13:
9780190620127
History
Biography
Ancient Egypt
Ancient Greece
Military History
Egypt - History
Macedonia biography