The book deals with central issues of Alexander's reign including his depiction in ancient literature and art, his treatment of Greeks, Macedonians, and Asians, the military, political, social and cultural aspects of his campaign, and his legacy in ancient philosophy as well as in modern Balkan communities.

Joseph Roisman, Ph.D. (1981) in Ancient History, University of Washington, is a Professor of Classics at Colby College. He has published extensively on ancient Greek history and historiography including The General Demosthenes and His Use of Military Surprise (Franz Steiner Verlag, 1993).