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Alexander the Great's Motivational Speech

Apr 23, 2025

Internet History Sourcebooks Project: Ancient History

Arrian: Speech of Alexander the Great

Context

  • Source: The Campaigns of Alexander
  • Content: Speech by Alexander the Great to his troops.
  • Purpose: Encourage continued campaign and expansion.

Key Points from Alexander's Speech

  • Decision to Continue or Turn Back:

    • Alexander addresses reluctance among troops.
    • Calls for a collective decision on whether to advance or retreat.
  • Achievements of the Campaign:

    • Conquests include Ionia, the Hellespont, Phrygias, Cappadocia, and many other regions.
    • Macedon has become a dominant power.
  • Call for Further Conquest:

    • Encourages extending Macedonian power to Hyphasis and beyond.
    • Downplays threat from remaining native opposition.
  • Philosophy on War and Glory:

    • Advocates for continued effort towards noble ends.
    • Belief in the interconnectedness of seas: Indian and Persian Gulfs, Hyrcanian Sea.
    • Vision of a world-encircling ocean.
  • Risks of Retreating:

    • Unconquered regions could rebel.
    • Retreat may require re-conquering regions.
    • Emphasizes glory achieved through hardship and courage.
  • Historical Examples and Motivations:

    • Mentions Heracles and Dionysus as inspirations.
    • Highlights surpassing challenges even these figures faced.
  • Personal Commitment and Shared Rewards:

    • Stresses shared hardship and danger with troops.
    • Rewards include conquered territory and potential future riches.
    • Offers open return for those desiring to go home post-conquest.

Additional Notes

  • Text Source:

    • Scanned by J. S. Arkenberg, California State Fullerton.
  • Part of the Internet Ancient History Sourcebook:

    • Collection of public domain, copy-permitted texts.
    • Emphasis on educational use and personal study.
  • Project Details:

    • Located at Fordham University, New York.
    • Independent of Fordham University but supported by its departments.
    • Directed by Paul Halsall since 1996.

Copyright and Usage

  • Permissions:
    • Electronic copying and distribution for educational/personal use allowed.
    • No commercial use without permission.
  • Citation Guidance: Provided by the source.