Internet History Sourcebooks Project: Ancient History

Arrian: Speech of Alexander the Great

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.

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.

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