The book, authored by Pierre Briant, challenges the notion of Alexander's campaign as solely a personal quest for glory. It argues that the Macedonian enterprise was built upon a thorough understanding of the Achaemenid territorial administration, drawing from recently published Persian documentation.
The author critiques current historiography, asserting that the Great Kings maintained control over communication routes, contrary to the idea of widespread "brigand" populations. He emphasizes Alexander's victory was facilitated by his effective use of the sophisticated Achaemenid logistical organization, including its strategically placed granaries and stores, which provided access to food and resources even in the Empire's northeastern frontiers.
This study clearly indicates that a comprehensive history of the Macedonian conquests cannot be written without fully integrating the world of Darius.
Published by the Collège de France and Les Belles Lettres in the "Docet omnia" collection, the 200-page volume was released on October 2, 2026, and is priced at €26.
