- Ancient Greek History, Ancient Rome, Augustus Caesar, Alexander the Great, Philip II of Macedonia, Old French, Medieval Literature, Arthurian Literature, and 46 moreChretien de Troyes, Arthurian Romances, Arthurian studies and Medieval Welsh history, Celtic Mythology, Classics and Ancient History, Arthurian Studies, Arthurian Literature, Greek and Roman Epigraphy, king Arthur, Arthurian Legend, Arthuriana, Imperial Rome, Roman military history, Augustus, Republican Rome, History of Ancient Macedonia, Roman Army, Roman Empire, Julius Caesar, Roman Republic, Ancient Greece (History), Roman History, Ancient Historiography, Roman Historiography, Latin Epigraphy, Roman Prosopography, Roman imperial history, Ancient Macedonian History, Ancient Military History, Ancient Greek and Roman Military History, Ancient Military Tactics, Ancient History of Persia, Achaemenid Persia, Trojan War, Mycenaean Greek, Mycenaean period, Augustan Principate, Military History, Classics, Diodorus Siculus, Medieval Romance, Old French, Old French and Old Occitan Literature, Classics: Ancient History and Archaeology, Late Roman Republic, and Historyedit
- In 2012 I retired from the Australian Public Service, and started to pursue my academic interests in a number of fiel... moreIn 2012 I retired from the Australian Public Service, and started to pursue my academic interests in a number of fields. These include Medieval Arthurian Literature, ancient Roman history, and Alexander the Great. In particular, Chretien de Troyes' Lancelot and Grail stories; the fall of the Roman Republic and early career of Augustus; military tactics and strategies of Alexander; near contemporary evidence on the life of the historical Jesus including non-canon sources and critical comparative source analysis.
I have been a member of the North American branch of the International Arthurian Society for many years.edit
In this second appendix to my thesis on the Battle Tactics of Alexander the Great, I continue my review of Alexander's military engagements prior to the commencement of his long campaign against the Persian Empire. This paper examines... more
In this second appendix to my thesis on the Battle Tactics of Alexander the Great, I continue my review of Alexander's military engagements prior to the commencement of his long campaign against the Persian Empire. This paper examines the first campaign Alexander undertook as the new King of Macedonia. The campaign was prompted by reports of potential unrest in the tribal lands of Thrace and Illyria. The paper looks both at what our sources actually tell us about this expedition, and the problems arising from the conflicting accounts to be found not just between sources, but within the same main source.
As well as looking at the evidence from a historiographic perspective, I shall also consider the signs within these accounts of the kinds of tactical developments Alexander will later come to use in his major battles and campaigns.
As well as looking at the evidence from a historiographic perspective, I shall also consider the signs within these accounts of the kinds of tactical developments Alexander will later come to use in his major battles and campaigns.
Research Interests: Ancient History, Alexander the Great, Ancient Greek History, Ancient Greek Historiography, History of Ancient Macedonia, and 7 moreAncient Illyria, History of ancient Thrace, Ancient Weapons and Warfare, Ancient Greek Warfare, Ancient Macedonia, Arrian of Nicomedia, and Ancient Greek and Roman military history, modern historiography, ancient military culture and ideology
The Battle of Chaeronea was the first major battle in which a young prince who would later be known as Alexander the Great, held a significant command position. This paper reexamines the limited evidence from ancient sources to determine... more
The Battle of Chaeronea was the first major battle in which a young prince who would later be known as Alexander the Great, held a significant command position. This paper reexamines the limited evidence from ancient sources to determine what they actually tell us. It also takes a critical look at a number of earlier assessments by 'modern' scholars. In this research I seek to demonstrate how a number of eminent and influential scholars have been misled in their zeal, to unfounded conclusion based more on the Heroic Alexander tradition.
Research Interests:
This chapter concludes my examination of Alexander’s last battle, the Battle of the Hydaspes. It is as much an historiographical exercise as it is an analysis of the battle tactics used in the main battle. Because of this, the chapter... more
This chapter concludes my examination of Alexander’s last battle, the Battle of the Hydaspes. It is as much an historiographical exercise as it is an analysis of the battle tactics used in the main battle. Because of this, the chapter is quite long, as it was also necessary to point out the misconceptions of previous studies of the battle, and to justify my own interpretation. Some elements of the chapter relating to the Indian army may later be amalgamated with earlier chapters on the Indians, in a single chapter.
Research Interests:
This is the first of two chapters examining the course Alexander's last great battle, the Battle of the Hydaspes. In this battle Alexander the Great was fighting against the army of the Indian King, Porus. The battle was fought near the... more
This is the first of two chapters examining the course Alexander's last great battle, the Battle of the Hydaspes. In this battle Alexander the Great was fighting against the army of the Indian King, Porus. The battle was fought near the Hydaspes River, a tributary of the Indus. It was fought in two stages. In this chapter I look at where and when Alexander crossed the Hydaspes, Alexander's order of march, and the first combat between Alexander's forces and the Indian forces sent out to intercept him.
The main battle will be discussed in the next chapter.
The main battle will be discussed in the next chapter.
Research Interests:
Alexander's conquest of the Persian Empire introduced the Macedonian King to a wide range of different cultures, with different ways of fighting war. But in India, he faced a very different enemy. Ancient India had been relatively... more
Alexander's conquest of the Persian Empire introduced the Macedonian King to a wide range of different cultures, with different ways of fighting war. But in India, he faced a very different enemy. Ancient India had been relatively isolated from the turmoils that had shaped the history of much of Asia and Europe. And as a result warfare on the subcontinent continued to follow the 'heroic', and ritualised modes of combat of older times that had been long abandoned in the west.
This paper looks at how the army of King Porus was shaped by Indian history and culture, and the impact that had on how his forces responded to Alexander's invasion.
This paper looks at how the army of King Porus was shaped by Indian history and culture, and the impact that had on how his forces responded to Alexander's invasion.
Research Interests: Historiography, Strabo, Alexander the Great, Ancient Greek Historiography, Ancient Military History, and 9 moreAncient Greece (History), Warfare in the Ancient World, Ancient Weapons and Warfare, Chariots, Ancient Indian History, Ancient Macedonian History, Arrian of Nicomedia, Battle of the Hydaspes, and Chariots In the Ancient World
At the Hydaspes River Alexander found himself confronted with a river in flood and an Indian King determined to prevent him from crossing. This paper examines the diversions and subterfuges Alexander used to lull King Porus into a false... more
At the Hydaspes River Alexander found himself confronted with a river in flood and an Indian King determined to prevent him from crossing. This paper examines the diversions and subterfuges Alexander used to lull King Porus into a false sense of security. The paper then examines the troops Alexander had assembled to lead across the river by both listed units and named commanders, to determine the actual composition of this attack force.
Research Interests: Roman Historiography, Historiography, Alexander the Great, Ancient Greek History, History of Ancient Macedonia, and 9 moreAncient Warfare, Warfare in the Ancient World, Ancient Greek Warfare, Ancient Indian History, Persian Empire, The Diadochoi (The Successors of Alexander III the Great), Battle of the Hydaspes, Ancient Cavalry, and Cavalry in Ancient World
This is the first of two chapters looking at the battle of the Hydaspes. The chapter looks at Alexander’s entry into Taxila and his journey to the Hydaspes River. In this chapter I will discuss issues such as the cause of the battle, the... more
This is the first of two chapters looking at the battle of the Hydaspes.
The chapter looks at Alexander’s entry into Taxila and his journey to the Hydaspes River.
In this chapter I will discuss issues such as the cause of the battle, the dating of the battle, and review how much we know of where the battle was fought. I will also discuss the composition of the Indian army under Porus, and the way Alexander’s Companion cavalry had been reorganised as Hipparchies.
The chapter looks at Alexander’s entry into Taxila and his journey to the Hydaspes River.
In this chapter I will discuss issues such as the cause of the battle, the dating of the battle, and review how much we know of where the battle was fought. I will also discuss the composition of the Indian army under Porus, and the way Alexander’s Companion cavalry had been reorganised as Hipparchies.
Research Interests:
This is the second chapter to examine Alexander the Great’s march into India, prior to the battle of the Hydaspes. The chapter focuses on Alexander’s conquest of the lands of the Assacensians, culminating in his capture of the Rock of... more
This is the second chapter to examine Alexander the Great’s march into India, prior to the battle of the Hydaspes. The chapter focuses on Alexander’s conquest of the lands of the Assacensians, culminating in his capture of the Rock of Aornos. Again, in this chapter, I am seeking to try and understand why Alexander chose the course he did. And I am also looking for evidence of the presence of Persian troops in Alexander’s army at this time. Here, too, Alexander can be seen continually sub-dividing his army to address specific problems and issues. He will later use the same tactical flexibility at the battle of the Hydaspes.
Research Interests: Ancient History, Historiography, Alexander the Great, Greek Historiography, Ancient Greek History, and 8 moreHistory of Ancient Macedonia, Ancient Warfare, Greek and Roman historiography, Warfare in the Ancient World, Ancient Greek Warfare, Ancient Indian History, Ancient Macedonia, and Persian Empire
This is the first of two chapters looking at Alexander the Great's march into India, prior to the battle of the Hydaspes. The chapter follows Alexander’s journey through difficult terrain into the land of the Aspasians. In this and the... more
This is the first of two chapters looking at Alexander the Great's march into India, prior to the battle of the Hydaspes.
The chapter follows Alexander’s journey through difficult terrain into the land of the Aspasians. In this and the following chapter, I am seeking to try and understand why Alexander chose the course he did. I am also looking for evidence of the presence of Persian troops in Alexander's army that were present at the Hydaspes, but not mentioned in Arrian's list of the troops he led into India.
In the course of these chapters, Alexander can also be seen to be continually sub-dividing his army to address specific problems and issues. He will later use the same tactical flexibility in manoeuvres leading up to the battle of the Hydaspes.
The chapter follows Alexander’s journey through difficult terrain into the land of the Aspasians. In this and the following chapter, I am seeking to try and understand why Alexander chose the course he did. I am also looking for evidence of the presence of Persian troops in Alexander's army that were present at the Hydaspes, but not mentioned in Arrian's list of the troops he led into India.
In the course of these chapters, Alexander can also be seen to be continually sub-dividing his army to address specific problems and issues. He will later use the same tactical flexibility in manoeuvres leading up to the battle of the Hydaspes.
Research Interests: Historiography, Alexander the Great, Greek Historiography, Ancient Greek History, History of Ancient Macedonia, and 8 moreAncient Warfare, Greek and Roman historiography, Warfare in the Ancient World, Ancient Greek Mythology, Ancient Greek Warfare, Ancient Indian History, Ancient Macedonia, and Persian Empire
Alexander spent almost two years securing control of Bactria and Sogdiana. No major battles were fought. Many of the events that happened during that period go well beyond the scope of this project, and shall not be addressed here.... more
Alexander spent almost two years securing control of Bactria and Sogdiana. No major battles were fought. Many of the events that happened during that period go well beyond the scope of this project, and shall not be addressed here. Instead, specific incidents, actions and policies will be reviewed for evidence of how Alexander was adapting to changing tactical threats, along with evidence that at this time Alexander was already making plans and preparations for his Indian campaign.
Research Interests:
Some five years separate the battle of Gaugamela from Alexander's next major battle against Porus at the Hydaspes in India. This paper is the first of two to review the course of events over those five years, starting with Alexander's... more
Some five years separate the battle of Gaugamela from Alexander's next major battle against Porus at the Hydaspes in India. This paper is the first of two to review the course of events over those five years, starting with Alexander's consolidation of control of the centre of the empire, the death of Darius, changes to the nature and structure of Alexander's army.
Research Interests:
Gaugamela was the last major battle between the forces of Alexander the Great and the Persian Empire under Darius III. This chapter concludes my analysis of that battle, starting with the collapse of the Persian left flank. In this... more
Gaugamela was the last major battle between the forces of Alexander the Great and the Persian Empire under Darius III. This chapter concludes my analysis of that battle, starting with the collapse of the Persian left flank. In this chapter particular attention I seek to reconcile the conflicting accounts in the sources as far as possible, to determine the most likely course of events. At the end of the chapter is a appendix that summarises the course of the battle by rough stages.
Research Interests: Alexander the Great, Ancient Persia, Warfare in the Ancient World, Classical Greek Military History, Histories of Philip II and Alexander the Great, and 9 moreAncient Greek Warfare, Persian Empire, Darius III, Ancient Macedonian History, Ancient Greek and Roman Military History, Battle of Gaugamela, Campaign of Alexander the Great In the East, Achaemenian Empire Achaemenid Archaeology Achaemenid History Ancient Greek Historiography Ancient Greek History Ancient Persia Classical Greece, and Gaugamela
Gaugamela was the last major battle fought by Alexander the Great against the Persian empire. Ancient sources provide conflicting tales of key events, but no clear account of the course of the battle. To understand what ‘really’... more
Gaugamela was the last major battle fought by Alexander the Great against the Persian empire. Ancient sources provide conflicting tales of key events, but no clear account of the course of the battle. To understand what ‘really’ happened you also have to take account of what has not been said and what happened afterwards. This analysis is the product of those investigations.
In Chapter 9, the first of two chapters on the actual fighting, I examine the initial Persian attacks and the related source problems.
In Chapter 9, the first of two chapters on the actual fighting, I examine the initial Persian attacks and the related source problems.
Research Interests: Ancient History, Alexander the Great, Ancient Persia, Ancient Greek History, History of Ancient Macedonia, and 11 moreWarfare in the Ancient World, Greek Warfare, Scythians, Ancient Weapons and Warfare, Chariots, Ancient Greek Warfare, Ancient Macedonia, Ancient Military Tactics, Battle of Gaugamela, Gaugamela, and Chariots In the Ancient World
This brief chapter looks at the way Alexander deployed his forces for the battle of Gaugamela, with particular attention to the way Alexander marched his army obliquely across the battlefield, and the significance of that action. This is... more
This brief chapter looks at the way Alexander deployed his forces for the battle of Gaugamela, with particular attention to the way Alexander marched his army obliquely across the battlefield, and the significance of that action.
This is quite a brief chapter but includes a number of diagrams to illustrate the Macedonian deployment.
This is quite a brief chapter but includes a number of diagrams to illustrate the Macedonian deployment.
Research Interests:
As promised, in this second stage of the revisions to my original thesis chapter on the battle at Gaugamela I examine the regional backgrounds to the units of the Persian Army engaged at Gaugamela. Then, at the end, I offer a... more
As promised, in this second stage of the revisions to my original thesis chapter on the battle at Gaugamela I examine the regional backgrounds to the units of the Persian Army engaged at Gaugamela. Then, at the end, I offer a reconstruction of the Persian battle lines assembled against Gaugamela, based on my own interpretation of the available evidence.
Research Interests: Ancient History, Alexander the Great, Ancient Persia, Achaemenid History, Ancient Warfare, and 12 moreWarfare in the Ancient World, Ancient Weapons and Warfare, Scythian and other Eurasian Nomadic Horse Warrior Cultures, Greco-Bactrian History, Darius III, Ancient History of Persia, Ancient Syria and Northern Mesopotamia, Achaemenid Persian Empire, Ancient Armenia, Ancient Warriors, Achaemeid Satrapies, and Ancient Persian Army
This chapter marks the beginning of a three stage revision of my original thesis chapter on Alexander the Great's battle against the Persians at Gaugamela. When the original Honour's thesis was written I did not have time to adequately... more
This chapter marks the beginning of a three stage revision of my original thesis chapter on Alexander the Great's battle against the Persians at Gaugamela.
When the original Honour's thesis was written I did not have time to adequately address the issues around the Persian side of the battle. I am looking to correct that, now.
In this chapter I have attempted to reconcile the conflict in our sources regarding the composition of the Persian army at Gaugamela, starting with three critical lists in our sources - two in Arrian and one in Curtius.
In the process I have also begun to restructure the whole work, with Section 3 devoted wholly to Gaugamela. Chapter 7 will concentrate on the deployment of the Persian Army, while Chapter 8 will consider the Macedonian deployment and the course of the battle.
When the original Honour's thesis was written I did not have time to adequately address the issues around the Persian side of the battle. I am looking to correct that, now.
In this chapter I have attempted to reconcile the conflict in our sources regarding the composition of the Persian army at Gaugamela, starting with three critical lists in our sources - two in Arrian and one in Curtius.
In the process I have also begun to restructure the whole work, with Section 3 devoted wholly to Gaugamela. Chapter 7 will concentrate on the deployment of the Persian Army, while Chapter 8 will consider the Macedonian deployment and the course of the battle.
Research Interests: Ancient History, Historiography, Alexander the Great, Ancient Persia, Ancient Greek History, and 15 moreAncient Military History, Achaemenid History, Warfare in the Ancient World, Achaemenian Empire, Greek Mercenaries, Ancient Armies, Ancient Weapons and Warfare, Darius III, Ancient Near Eastern Military History, Battle of Gaugamela, Ancient Cavalry, Gaugamela, Ancient Warriors, Ancient Light Infantry, and Ancient Persian Cavalry
In this chapter - originally Chapter 3 in my 1980 thesis, I examine Alexander's tactics in the second of his three major battles against the Persians. In this expanded account I have been able to also look in much more detail at the... more
In this chapter - originally Chapter 3 in my 1980 thesis, I examine Alexander's tactics in the second of his three major battles against the Persians.
In this expanded account I have been able to also look in much more detail at the topography of the battle site and the composition of the Persian army, including a Prosopographic analysis of its known commanders. I have also included a number of diagrams to illustrate my key points.
Most of the major additions are in blue.
In this expanded account I have been able to also look in much more detail at the topography of the battle site and the composition of the Persian army, including a Prosopographic analysis of its known commanders. I have also included a number of diagrams to illustrate my key points.
Most of the major additions are in blue.
Research Interests: Ancient History, Prosopography, Ancient Historiography, Alexander the Great, Ancient Persia, and 15 moreAncient Greek History, Ancient Greek Historiography, History of Ancient Macedonia, Ancient Weapons and Warfare, Ancient Greek Warfare, Darius III, Ancient Macedonian History, Greco-Persian Wars, Battle of Issus, Battlefield Tactics of Ancient Armies, Ancient Greek Weaponry and Warfare, Ancient Cilicia, Persian Warfare, Ancient Persian Cavalry, and Ancient Battlefields
In this short chapter I look at the issue of just where the Battle of Issus was fought. In so doing I seek to lay to rest the vexed question of just which river the battle was fought across. There has been much debate about this in the... more
In this short chapter I look at the issue of just where the Battle of Issus was fought. In so doing I seek to lay to rest the vexed question of just which river the battle was fought across. There has been much debate about this in the past, with two conflicting views dominating. Settling this issue should help to make both the issues of troop deployments and the course of the battle clearer.
Research Interests: Landscape Archaeology, Historiography, Alexander the Great, Ancient Persia, Ancient Greek History, and 9 moreAncient Greek Warfare, Ancient Greek and Roman Warfare Archaeology and History, Darius III, Ancient Macedonian History, Ancient Greek and Roman Military History, Ancient Greek Geography, Ancient Military Landscape, Ancient Cilicia, and Ancient Battlefields
In this addition to my original thesis I address the circumstances that saw Alexander’s army having to rush back from the Syrian Gates of Cilicia to confront late in the day an enemy that had somehow managed to get behind him. So this... more
In this addition to my original thesis I address the circumstances that saw Alexander’s army having to rush back from the Syrian Gates of Cilicia to confront late in the day an enemy that had somehow managed to get behind him. So this chapter temporarily shifts the focus of my thesis from tactical to strategic issues, and looks at the lingering questions over Alexander’s illness during his time in Tarsus.
Research Interests:
Chapter 2 of my 1980 thesis was a study of Alexander's tactics in the first of his three major battles against the Persians, at the Granicus River. When I originally wrote this, as noted in this new draft, the prevailing academic opinion... more
Chapter 2 of my 1980 thesis was a study of Alexander's tactics in the first of his three major battles against the Persians, at the Granicus River.
When I originally wrote this, as noted in this new draft, the prevailing academic opinion was that the battle was fought across the modern river course. While I had reservations about that, I generally had to follow that line. As you will see, modern studies now confirm that the river has changed course since the time of Alexander. I have acknowledged that in this revision, but not made many changes, as it does not really affect the core of my arguments.
I have also added an extended conclusion to reinforce my key points. All additions are in italics.
When I originally wrote this, as noted in this new draft, the prevailing academic opinion was that the battle was fought across the modern river course. While I had reservations about that, I generally had to follow that line. As you will see, modern studies now confirm that the river has changed course since the time of Alexander. I have acknowledged that in this revision, but not made many changes, as it does not really affect the core of my arguments.
I have also added an extended conclusion to reinforce my key points. All additions are in italics.
Research Interests: Ancient History, Alexander the Great, Ancient Persia, Ancient Greek History, Ancient Military History, and 16 moreHistory of Ancient Macedonia, Ancient Greece (History), Ancient Warfare, Ancient Near Eastern History, Warfare in the Ancient World, Ancient Weapons and Warfare, Ancient Greek Warfare, Ancient Macedonia, Battle of the Granicus, Ancient Warfare Achaemenid Persia, Alexander's Army, Granicus, Alexander's Historians, Battle of Granicus, Battle at Granicus, and Alexander's Companion Cavalry
In this section, I look at Alexander's Heavy Cavalry, the Companions, Prodromoi and Paeonians, and the revolutionary tactical change these units brought to cavalry combat at that time – their capacity to charge home. The section also... more
In this section, I look at Alexander's Heavy Cavalry, the Companions, Prodromoi and Paeonians, and the revolutionary tactical change these units brought to cavalry combat at that time – their capacity to charge home. The section also includes a brief discussion on the organisation of Alexander's cavalry, and the ways he commanded his army in battle. (Detail from the Battle of Issus mosaic, Naples Archaeological Museum, 2018.)
Research Interests: Ancient History, Alexander the Great, Ancient Greek History, Ancient Warfare, Warfare in the Ancient World, and 7 moreHistories of Philip II and Alexander the Great, Ancient Greek Warfare, Ancient Cavalry, Cavalry in Ancient World, Alexander's Army, ancient Greek cavalry, and Alexander's Companion Cavalry
Part 5 of Chapter 1 of my thesis is now available. After a short clarification at the start, this section remains largely as it was in the original paper. The new work is in a blue text. The section concentrates on the Persian cavalry. In... more
Part 5 of Chapter 1 of my thesis is now available. After a short clarification at the start, this section remains largely as it was in the original paper. The new work is in a blue text. The section concentrates on the Persian cavalry. In it, I look in particular at Darius' battle lines at Gaugamela, identifying a number of ethnic units as cavalry that were never specifically named as such. And I look as well at what appears to have been the standard size of Persian cavalry units for tactical purposes.
Research Interests:
In this section of my thesis I turn my attention to Alexander's cavalry units, starting with those units I regard as light cavalry. The discussion examines both the nationalities of those units, together with their arms, armament and... more
In this section of my thesis I turn my attention to Alexander's cavalry units, starting with those units I regard as light cavalry. The discussion examines both the nationalities of those units, together with their arms, armament and combat capabilities. Units considered include allied Greek cavalry, Thracians, Odrysians and Thessalians.
Research Interests: Ancient History, Alexander the Great, Ancient Greek History, Ancient Military History, History of Ancient Macedonia, and 9 moreAncient Macedonia, Ancient Military Tactics, Ancient Macedonian History, Ancient Greek and Roman Military History, Ancient Cavalry, Cavalry in Ancient World, ancient Greek cavalry, Thessalian Cavalry, and Thracian Cavalry
A new section has been added in which I conclude my review of Alexander's infantry with a discussion of the allied soldiers and mercenary troops in his army. This is then followed by a brief introduction of the section on Alexander's... more
A new section has been added in which I conclude my review of Alexander's infantry with a discussion of the allied soldiers and mercenary troops in his army. This is then followed by a brief introduction of the section on Alexander's cavalry.
This section contains some significant revisions, including a discussion of the peltasts , which I will move to the Light Infantry section in my final study, plus to the introduction to the Cavalry section, which has also been rewritten to flag coming revisions to the Light Cavalry discussion.
This section contains some significant revisions, including a discussion of the peltasts , which I will move to the Light Infantry section in my final study, plus to the introduction to the Cavalry section, which has also been rewritten to flag coming revisions to the Light Cavalry discussion.
Research Interests: Ancient History, Alexander the Great, Ancient Greek History, Ancient Military History, History of Ancient Macedonia, and 7 moreAncient Military Tactics, Ancient Macedonian History, Ancient Greek and Roman Military History, Ancient Cavalry, Cavalry in Ancient World, Ancient Greek Mercenaries, and ancient Greek cavalry
My review of Alexander's tactical units and troop types now turns to issues regarding the Macedonian Heavy Infantry. This part of the text has been expanded from the original thesis to take account of some of the late Dr Minor Markle III,... more
My review of Alexander's tactical units and troop types now turns to issues regarding the Macedonian Heavy Infantry.
This part of the text has been expanded from the original thesis to take account of some of the late Dr Minor Markle III, of the Dept. of Classics & Ancient History, University of New England, Australia.
This section of the work is dedicated to Minor's memory.
This part of the text has been expanded from the original thesis to take account of some of the late Dr Minor Markle III, of the Dept. of Classics & Ancient History, University of New England, Australia.
This section of the work is dedicated to Minor's memory.
Research Interests: Ancient History, Alexander the Great, Ancient Greek History, Ancient Military History, History of Ancient Macedonia, and 9 moreA History of Ancient Macedonia, Philip II of Macedonia, Ancient Macedonia, Ancient Military Tactics, Ancient Greek and Roman Military History, Sarissa, Pezhetairoi, Hypaspists, and Ancient Heavy Infantry
This is the first part of Chapter 1 of my Honours thesis (1980). It begins with a brief discussion of basic military principles and of relevant tactical unit types. A much more detailed discussion of the function of Light Infantry,... more
This is the first part of Chapter 1 of my Honours thesis (1980). It begins with a brief discussion of basic military principles and of relevant tactical unit types. A much more detailed discussion of the function of Light Infantry, including a discussion of the types used by Alexander III follows. With respect to the army of Alexander the Great, special reference is made to the Agrianians and Cretan Archers.
Research Interests: Ancient History, Alexander the Great, Ancient Greek History, Ancient Military History, History of Ancient Macedonia, and 9 moreA History of Ancient Macedonia, Philip II of Macedon, Ancient Macedonia, Ancient Military Tactics, Ancient Greek and Roman Military History, Light Infantry, Light Infantry Warfare, Agrianians, and Ancient Light Infantry
An brief introduction to a much longer project based on my Honours thesis on the Battle Tactics of Alexander the Great. The original work concentrated on the combat capabilities of Alexander's units and the major battles. I'll be... more
An brief introduction to a much longer project based on my Honours thesis on the Battle Tactics of Alexander the Great. The original work concentrated on the combat capabilities of Alexander's units and the major battles. I'll be publishing the original work here in instalments, with revisions and extensions to follow as I find the time to address them.
The introduction just gives an overview of the issues in my mind when I began work on the thesis.
The introduction just gives an overview of the issues in my mind when I began work on the thesis.
Research Interests: Ancient History, Military History, Strategy (Military Science), Napoleonic Wars, Alexander the Great, and 8 moreAncient Greek History, History of Ancient Macedonia, Philip II of Macedonia, Duke of Wellington, Peninsular War, Ancient Macedonia, Anicent Roman Military Tactics and Battles, and Military Incompetence
As explained in the earlier parts of this work, I have always seen Augustus as a product of his time. In this final part of my 20,000+ examination of Augustus’ early career I look first at how, and why, Mark Antony repeatedly sought to... more
As explained in the earlier parts of this work, I have always seen Augustus as a product of his time. In this final part of my 20,000+ examination of Augustus’ early career I look first at how, and why, Mark Antony repeatedly sought to impede Octavian’s early moves to have his adoption by Caesar recognised, and to claim his inheritance. I consider the problems this caused for both Octavian and Antony, and how the cycle of reconciliations and rifts drove Octavian to side with Cicero and the conservative factions in the Senate. In this, I look at both the political and other inducements offered by the Senate to win Octavian to their side, and the way the conservatives then attempted to recant their promises after the battle that saw Antony defeated and the consuls Hirtius and Pansa dead on the field, leaving Octavian in sole command of the conservative factions army.
These last betrayals were what pushed Octavian, now much better placed politically and militarily, back towards the Caesarian faction and the foundation of the Second Triumvirate.
I should also note that a great part of this paper is taken up with resolving the confused chronology of Appian’s account, through careful use of corroborating evidence from Cicero’s letters from that time. This section covers events from April to October 44. I have made some significant restructuring of this section prior to publication here.
The last part of my paper was rather rushed, simply because – when I originally wrote it – I was running out of time. The key events are covered, albeit briefly.
These last betrayals were what pushed Octavian, now much better placed politically and militarily, back towards the Caesarian faction and the foundation of the Second Triumvirate.
I should also note that a great part of this paper is taken up with resolving the confused chronology of Appian’s account, through careful use of corroborating evidence from Cicero’s letters from that time. This section covers events from April to October 44. I have made some significant restructuring of this section prior to publication here.
The last part of my paper was rather rushed, simply because – when I originally wrote it – I was running out of time. The key events are covered, albeit briefly.
Research Interests:
In the last decades of the Roman Republic, Rome came very close to collapse. Augustus brought an end to the civil wars that were tearing the state apart. He did bring peace. But there are still many who see him as a monster and a tyrant.... more
In the last decades of the Roman Republic, Rome came very close to collapse. Augustus brought an end to the civil wars that were tearing the state apart. He did bring peace. But there are still many who see him as a monster and a tyrant. I see him as a product of his time. In this second part of my 20,000+ examination of Augustus' early career I examine Octavian's early moves from his return to Italy after Caesar's assassination up to just after his arrival in Rome. In this paper I look at the people he met on his travels to Rome, his formal acceptance of his adoption by Caesar, and his inheritance, his first meeting with Mark Antony.
This paper also looks at some of the problems of chronology in the surviving accounts, and the circumstances and possible content of Octavian's first public speech in Rome.
This paper also looks at some of the problems of chronology in the surviving accounts, and the circumstances and possible content of Octavian's first public speech in Rome.
Research Interests: Roman History, Roman Historiography, Roman Republic, Cicero, Civil Wars (Roman Republic), and 12 moreAugustan Principate, Roman imperial history, Roman Republican History, Augustus, Late Roman Republic, The Early Principate, Julius Caesar, Roman politics, Mark Antony, The Triumviral Period (43 - 31BC), Second Triumvirate, and The Fall of the Roman Republic
In the last decades of the Roman Republic, Rome came very close to collapse. Augustus brought an end to the civil wars that were tearing the state apart. He did bring peace. But there are still many who see him as a monster and a tyrant.... more
In the last decades of the Roman Republic, Rome came very close to collapse. Augustus brought an end to the civil wars that were tearing the state apart. He did bring peace. But there are still many who see him as a monster and a tyrant. I see him as a product of his time. This paper is the first part of a 20,000+ examination of Octavian's early career following Caesar's assassination. The paper was a detailed examination of events in the two years (roughly) immediately after the assassination. In this work I seek to put Octavian, who would become Augustus, back into the context of his times.
Research Interests:
Written in 1980 as part of the course work for my Honours year, this paper is a brief review of the work of the 'lost' historians of the early Roman Principate. In particular the paper examines what we know of the works of Aufidius... more
Written in 1980 as part of the course work for my Honours year, this paper is a brief review of the work of the 'lost' historians of the early Roman Principate. In particular the paper examines what we know of the works of Aufidius Bassus, the elder Pliny, the elder Seneca, Bruttedius Niger, Cluvius Rufus, Vipstanus Messala and Fabius Rusticus under the heading 'Imperial Annalists'.
Research Interests:
An examination of the career of Crassus, with particular attention to conflicting evidence in the available sources regarding his early life. The paper is a revision of a paper originally written in the late 1970's. It takes note of the... more
An examination of the career of Crassus, with particular attention to conflicting evidence in the available sources regarding his early life. The paper is a revision of a paper originally written in the late 1970's. It takes note of the few issues brought to my attention by my tutor at the time, and makes some adjustments based on my own recent review of the sources.
Research Interests:
A critical examination of the ancient sources regarding Julius Caesar's opposition to the execution of Catiline's co-conspirators. Sallust's account is compared to the evidence from Cicero's speech (In Catilinam IV), along with later... more
A critical examination of the ancient sources regarding Julius Caesar's opposition to the execution of Catiline's co-conspirators. Sallust's account is compared to the evidence from Cicero's speech (In Catilinam IV), along with later accounts.
The paper is based on an old 1979 assignment, but with some reference updates and other minor adjustments.
The paper is based on an old 1979 assignment, but with some reference updates and other minor adjustments.
Research Interests:
In this concluding section of my prosopographic analysis of the poems of Chrétien’s Arthurian poems, I reflect upon the way King Arthur’s own family expanded and evolved under the adept hand of the poet we know as Chrétien de Troyes.
Research Interests: Medieval Literature, Chretien de Troyes, Arthurian Studies, Prosopography, Arthuriana, and 15 moreArthurian Romances, Gawain romances, Arthurian Romance, Arthurian Legend, Arthurian Legends, king Arthur, Arthurian Vulgate Cycle, Guinevere, Old French Romance, Arthurian Studies, Celtic Culture, Mythologies, Chrétien de Troyes, Arthurian Literature, Old French Literature, Old French, Medieval Literature, Arthurian Literature, and Sir Gawain
In Part 3 of my Prosopographic analysis of the poems of Chrétien’s Arthurian poems, I take a closer look at the characters Chrétien made more regular use of. Here, too, we find that Chrétien was frequently unfamiliar with the tradition... more
In Part 3 of my Prosopographic analysis of the poems of Chrétien’s Arthurian poems, I take a closer look at the characters Chrétien made more regular use of. Here, too, we find that Chrétien was frequently unfamiliar with the tradition behind the name, leading him to completely reinvent the character. Among these we also find the names of a number of characters who were apparently invented by Chrétien. Names like Sagremor, Dodinel and Girflet, who would claim their own places in later tradition. And in the case of the best known names, like Lancelot, Perceval and Kay, we touch upon some interesting insights into these well-known heroes, and in one case glimpse a lost tale that Chrétien chose to hold onto, albeit in the most oblique of references.
Research Interests: Chretien de Troyes, Prosopography, Intertextuality, Old French, Arthurian Romances, and 14 moreComparative medieval literature and culture (German, English, Old Norse & Old French), king Arthur, Lancelot, Old French Romance, Chrétien de Troyes, Medieval Prosopography, Arthurian Literature, Old French Literature, comparative medieval literature and culture (Old French, German, Old Irish & Old Welsh), Old French and Old Occitan Literature, Arthurian studies and Medieval Welsh history, Old French, Medieval Literature, Arthurian Literature, Perceval, and Medieval Arthurian Literature
In Part 2 of my Prosopographic analysis of the poems of Chrétien’s Arthurian poems, I take a closer look at the few characters who feature only in the three stories Chrétien tells in his Erec and Enide poem. What these show is that, at... more
In Part 2 of my Prosopographic analysis of the poems of Chrétien’s Arthurian poems, I take a closer look at the few characters who feature only in the three stories Chrétien tells in his Erec and Enide poem. What these show is that, at the time he wrote this first poem, Chrétien was quite unfamiliar with the tradition he was drawing upon. And this led his to cast some characters, such as Yder, Son of Nut, into roles at odds with the Welsh tradition behind their names.
Again, a heavily truncated version of this paper was presented at the Fourth Annual Symposium on Medieval and Renaissance Studies in St Louis, Missouri, USA in June 2016.
Again, a heavily truncated version of this paper was presented at the Fourth Annual Symposium on Medieval and Renaissance Studies in St Louis, Missouri, USA in June 2016.
Research Interests: Chretien de Troyes, Prosopography, Intertextuality, Old French, Medieval Romance, and 13 moreMedieval Welsh Literature, Comparative medieval literature and culture (German, English, Old Norse & Old French), king Arthur, Old French Romance, Chrétien de Troyes, medieval and early modern romance, Arthurian literature, Arthurian Literature, Old French Literature, Welsh mythology, comparative medieval literature and culture (Old French, German, Old Irish & Old Welsh), Old French and Old Occitan Literature, Old French, Medieval Literature, Arthurian Literature, and Medieval Arthurian Literature
In Chrétien’s Erec et Enide, depending on the redaction, there are 80 to 100+ characters named, significantly more than in any of his other Arthurian poems. Using prosopographic techniques my paper will examine the names of those... more
In Chrétien’s Erec et Enide, depending on the redaction, there are 80 to 100+ characters named, significantly more than in any of his other Arthurian poems. Using prosopographic techniques my paper will examine the names of those characters; the origins of those names; their use in Erec; and how consistent Chrétien was in the role of those characters in his later poems.
I will argue that, in writing Erec et Enide, Chrétien was laying the foundations for an entire series of Arthurian stories. This does not mean he had a clear vision of the later tales he wanted to tell. Rather, I will argue, the names offer evidence of the poet’s awareness of the rich literary and oral tradition he wanted to draw on, including Wace, non- Arthurian Breton lays, and other names obliquely derived from Welsh or other Celtic traditions. Sometimes, the names were used out of context. In other cases the actual names, possibly in prior transmission or by Chrétien himself, were wrongly translated or transcribed, with some characters occasionally being recreated in forms quite alien to their origin. Viewed as a whole, the way Chrétien initially used these names, and then recast some characters’ roles in later poems, either intentionally or unwittingly, has much to tell us about his overall approach to his work.
A heavily truncated version of this paper was presented at the Fourth Annual Symposium on Medieval and Renaissance Studies in St Louis, Missouri, USA in June 2016.
I will argue that, in writing Erec et Enide, Chrétien was laying the foundations for an entire series of Arthurian stories. This does not mean he had a clear vision of the later tales he wanted to tell. Rather, I will argue, the names offer evidence of the poet’s awareness of the rich literary and oral tradition he wanted to draw on, including Wace, non- Arthurian Breton lays, and other names obliquely derived from Welsh or other Celtic traditions. Sometimes, the names were used out of context. In other cases the actual names, possibly in prior transmission or by Chrétien himself, were wrongly translated or transcribed, with some characters occasionally being recreated in forms quite alien to their origin. Viewed as a whole, the way Chrétien initially used these names, and then recast some characters’ roles in later poems, either intentionally or unwittingly, has much to tell us about his overall approach to his work.
A heavily truncated version of this paper was presented at the Fourth Annual Symposium on Medieval and Renaissance Studies in St Louis, Missouri, USA in June 2016.
Research Interests: Chretien de Troyes, Arthurian Studies, Prosopography, Geoffrey of Monmouth, Intertextuality, and 11 moreOld French, Arthurian Romances, Arthurian Legends, king Arthur, Mabinogion, Arthurian studies and Medieval Welsh history, Erec Et Enide, Old French, Medieval Literature, Arthurian Literature, Conte Du Graal, Welsh triads, and Medieval Arthurian Literature
This paper argues that in the Conte du Graal Chrétien was seeking to present a subtle, deliberately crafted criticism of the feudal, militaristic culture in which he lived. A criticism, and a warning of the risk of social collapse that... more
This paper argues that in the Conte du Graal Chrétien was seeking to present a subtle, deliberately crafted criticism of the feudal, militaristic culture in which he lived. A criticism, and a warning of the risk of social collapse that can follow when the powerful lords who hold the culture together, are slain or otherwise rendered politically impotent. The paper will seek to show how this theme of wrongful dispossession, disinheritance and impoverishment, runs throughout the poem, and is not limited solely to the feature elements of Perceval’s family, the Grail castle, and the Castle of Maidens. And the social vulnerability portrayed is but a reflection of his Chrétien’s own culture’s political violence and the social attrition arising from tournaments and the crusades. The true hero of the poem must then be seen as the one who corrects these wrongs.
Research Interests:
In Le Chevalier de la Charette, the hero, Lancelot, spends the first half of the romance unnamed, and apparently unrecognised, even though, as presented later in the poem, he is clearly a prominent figure at Arthur's court. Why was he... more
In Le Chevalier de la Charette, the hero, Lancelot, spends the first half of the romance unnamed, and apparently unrecognised, even though, as presented later in the poem, he is clearly a prominent figure at Arthur's court. Why was he left unnamed for so long? Is it merely one of Chrétien's literary device? A distortion by the poet of an older tradition about Lancelot, such as we find presented in the Lanzelet? Or does something else lie behind it? The question clearly vexed the author of the parallel section of the Prose Lancelot, considering the lengths he went to, to rationalise the events of Chrétien's poem. In this paper I would like to offer an alternative interpretation. A comparative study that also draws parallels with the Fair Unknown tales and L'Atre Perilleux (The PerilousGraveyard).
THE KNIGHT WHO LOST HIS NAME: LANCELOT IN LE CHEVALIER DE LA CHARETTE. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/236236279_THE_KNIGHT_WHO_LOST_HIS_NAME_LANCELOT_IN_LE_CHEVALIER_DE_LA_CHARETTE [accessed Mar 23, 2015].
Presented at the XXth International Arthurian Congress in Bangor, Wales, July 2002.
THE KNIGHT WHO LOST HIS NAME: LANCELOT IN LE CHEVALIER DE LA CHARETTE. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/236236279_THE_KNIGHT_WHO_LOST_HIS_NAME_LANCELOT_IN_LE_CHEVALIER_DE_LA_CHARETTE [accessed Mar 23, 2015].
Presented at the XXth International Arthurian Congress in Bangor, Wales, July 2002.
Research Interests:
A brief comparison of common theme elements with Le Bel Inconnu, the German Lanzelet, and the Vulgate Cycle's Prose Lancelot.
Research Interests: Chretien de Troyes, Intertextuality, Old French, Arthurian Romances, king Arthur, and 10 moreArthurian Vulgate Cycle, Lancelot, Old French Romance, Chrétien de Troyes, Old and Middle High German, courtly poems, Arthurian Literature, Old French Literature, Lancelot En Prose, Old French, Medieval Literature, Arthurian Literature, and Lanzelet
Today, most people know the story of Arthur drawing the sword from the stone, and many also know the tale of his taking the sword from a hand rising out of the middle of a lake. Yet if you ask them to name Arthur’s sword, only one name,... more
Today, most people know the story of Arthur drawing the sword from the stone, and many also know the tale of his taking the sword from a hand rising out of the middle of a lake. Yet if you ask them to name Arthur’s sword, only one name, Excalibur, will spring to mind. So, did Arthur have two swords, only one of which was named, or was there only one sword, with two different accounts of its origins?
This paper examines how the modern confusion has arisen from the way the legend of Arthur’s sword was transmitted across cultures over the course of the Middle Ages. Starting with the earliest Welsh accounts, references to Arthur’s swords are traced through the Latin, Old French and Middle English texts. But it is in the early French tradition that we find the seeds of much of the later confusion. Here, a simple misunderstanding produced much later confusion as to just whose sword Excalibur really was. Thereafter, the story of Arthur’s “swords” becomes a struggle to account for, and lay the puzzle to rest. In the course of this, new tales began to be introduced to account for the origins of Arthur’s sword, and to relate its passing, while at the same time, new swords are introduced to fill the place of Excalibur in Arthur’s hand.
Most of these swords are now largely forgotten, but the stories told to account for them have much to tell us about the way cultural and linguistic differences and sometimes simple biases continually reshaped the very Arthurian legend itself. And they also reveal something too often overlooked about the role of the King’s sword in the hand of the King’s Champion.
This paper was presented and published in 1999. The current text has been subject to minor revisions to correct typographical errors, but the substance of the text remains unchanged.
This paper examines how the modern confusion has arisen from the way the legend of Arthur’s sword was transmitted across cultures over the course of the Middle Ages. Starting with the earliest Welsh accounts, references to Arthur’s swords are traced through the Latin, Old French and Middle English texts. But it is in the early French tradition that we find the seeds of much of the later confusion. Here, a simple misunderstanding produced much later confusion as to just whose sword Excalibur really was. Thereafter, the story of Arthur’s “swords” becomes a struggle to account for, and lay the puzzle to rest. In the course of this, new tales began to be introduced to account for the origins of Arthur’s sword, and to relate its passing, while at the same time, new swords are introduced to fill the place of Excalibur in Arthur’s hand.
Most of these swords are now largely forgotten, but the stories told to account for them have much to tell us about the way cultural and linguistic differences and sometimes simple biases continually reshaped the very Arthurian legend itself. And they also reveal something too often overlooked about the role of the King’s sword in the hand of the King’s Champion.
This paper was presented and published in 1999. The current text has been subject to minor revisions to correct typographical errors, but the substance of the text remains unchanged.
Research Interests: Arthurian Studies, Arthurian Romances, Early and Medieval Irish, Irish History, Irish Literature, Medieval Literature, Medieval Studies, Celtic Studies, Irish Studies, king Arthur, Celtic Mythology, and 5 moreArthurian Literature, Middle English texts especially Arthurian Literature, comparative medieval literature and culture (Old French, German, Old Irish & Old Welsh), Arthurian studies and Medieval Welsh history, and Old French, Medieval Literature, Arthurian Literature
In the incomplete Le Conte du Graal the number of lines devoted to Perceval’s story is about 5000, compared to the 4000 spent relating Gawain’s adventures. In the Grail poem, we are early on presented with a prophecy that, if Perceval... more
In the incomplete Le Conte du Graal the number of lines devoted to Perceval’s story is about 5000, compared to the 4000 spent relating Gawain’s adventures. In the Grail poem, we are early on presented with a prophecy that, if Perceval lives long enough, there will never be a better knight than he. It is a prophecy never to be fulfilled in the unfinished work. But later on in the poem we do see Sir Gawain pass the test of the Bed of Marvels, a challenge which the text makes clear could only be met by the very best and noblest of knights. Yet for all that, scholars continue to dismiss Gawain’s role as being no more than that of a role model for Perceval, a model that Perceval as hero is bound to surpass. And some even go so far as to dismiss the Gawain section of the narrative almost entirely from their discussion of the romance.
Through a comparison of various modern interpretations of Gawain’s adventures at Tintagel, this paper examines the way pre-conceptions about Gawain’s role shapes the way different scholars interpret the same events. Following this, a single modern study is looked at to see how another instance of retrospective interpretation the term “les isles de Mer” can lead to a very novel reinterpretation of the Grail legend.
Though focusing on the particular, this paper complements and corroborates the arguments of my 2008 paper, “Chrétien’s Conte du Graal and the Fatal Flaw in Feudalism”.
Misdirections; A critical review of two past interpretations of Le Conte du Graal. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/236901171_Misdirections_A_critical_review_of_two_past_interpretations_of_Le_Conte_du_Graal [accessed Mar 22, 2015].
Through a comparison of various modern interpretations of Gawain’s adventures at Tintagel, this paper examines the way pre-conceptions about Gawain’s role shapes the way different scholars interpret the same events. Following this, a single modern study is looked at to see how another instance of retrospective interpretation the term “les isles de Mer” can lead to a very novel reinterpretation of the Grail legend.
Though focusing on the particular, this paper complements and corroborates the arguments of my 2008 paper, “Chrétien’s Conte du Graal and the Fatal Flaw in Feudalism”.
Misdirections; A critical review of two past interpretations of Le Conte du Graal. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/236901171_Misdirections_A_critical_review_of_two_past_interpretations_of_Le_Conte_du_Graal [accessed Mar 22, 2015].
Research Interests:
Early in Malory’s Morte d'Arthur, King Arthur makes his knights swear an oath to abide by the standards he expects of them. This paper is a brief examination of Malory’s concept of chivalry and how different knights, including the king,... more
Early in Malory’s Morte d'Arthur, King Arthur makes his knights swear an oath to abide by the standards he expects of them. This paper is a brief examination of Malory’s concept of chivalry and how different knights, including the king, himself, either succeeded or failed to meet the standards of that oath. And the consequences of failing to adhere to it. In the process I'll also looks at the way Malory modified his sources to develop this theme, particularly with respect to Lancelot, who Malory sought to present as the best of Arthur’s knights.
The paper was originally written in 1979 for a Middle English course . When I wrote it, I had no knowledge of the French sources Malory used, beyond references in the Middle English text books cited. Translations of many of the French works have only become available in the last couple of decades. For completeness, I have added additional comments to my footnotes to identify Malory's Old French sources, where these have been identified.
The paper was originally written in 1979 for a Middle English course . When I wrote it, I had no knowledge of the French sources Malory used, beyond references in the Middle English text books cited. Translations of many of the French works have only become available in the last couple of decades. For completeness, I have added additional comments to my footnotes to identify Malory's Old French sources, where these have been identified.
Research Interests: Medieval Literature, Middle English, Arthurian Studies, Middle English Romances, Middle English texts especially Arthurian Literature, and 3 moreOld French Literature, comparative medieval literature and culture (Old French, German, Old Irish & Old Welsh), and Old French, Medieval Literature, Arthurian Literature
A critical evaluation of this book, together with a look at an ongoing problem in modern scholarship, "the need to be continually in print, ready or not".
Research Interests:
The initial draft of my review of Andrea Williams book was longer than the published version. The final copy was shortened solely to fit the editorial requirements of the journal in which it appeared. To achieve this, my comments on the... more
The initial draft of my review of Andrea Williams book was longer than the published version. The final copy was shortened solely to fit the editorial requirements of the journal in which it appeared. To achieve this, my comments on the work as a whole had to be shortened, and discussion on particular sections of the work had to be dropped. The material published here offers further clarification of points raised in the published review.
In this 3rd year paper I take a critical look at a specific quote from the eminent Roman scholar, Ronald Syme, on Nerva's accession as emperor after the death of Domitian.
Research Interests:
This short Appendix follows on from discussion on the Academia Session regarding my most recent Thesis Chapter on the Pinarus River to demonstrate how much ancient geography has been obliterated by urban development. This was the reason... more
This short Appendix follows on from discussion on the Academia Session regarding my most recent Thesis Chapter on the Pinarus River to demonstrate how much ancient geography has been obliterated by urban development. This was the reason I chose not to include a modern map in Chapter 4 of my Thesis.
Research Interests:
Harpalus For several months I’ve been working on revising a paper I’d written on the assassination of Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great. In the course of this I found myself looking at the so called 'friends' of the... more
Harpalus
For several months I’ve been working on revising a paper I’d written on the assassination of Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great.
In the course of this I found myself looking at the so called 'friends' of the young Alexander who were exiled shortly before Philip was killed. I had already dismissed as ‘fiction’ the alleged Pixodarus affair described by Plutarch. But that left raised the question that if that affair did not happen, why were they exiled? So I started to look at each of the hetairoi in a new appendix. That was largely straightforward except for Harpalus. As this draft paper will explain, his story is quite complex and has taken more work than all the other hetairoi.
The current draws upon a number of diverse and conflicting sources. In reconstructing Harpalus’ life the paper takes a critical look at what I consider the way Harpalus has been misrepresented in some of the primary sources, while providing a fresh interpretation of some of the key events in his life, including in particular his first flight from Asia.
Because it began life as part of a much larger whole, the work does include references to other parts of the original paper, such as Appendix 2, in which I look at the chronology of Philip’s marriages. If you have any questions on those matters I’m happy to answer them.
Part of that involved looking at the conspiracy theories that Alexander’s mother, Olympias, and/or Alexander himself were behind the assassination. This has led me to make my own revision on the chronology of those marriages in a new appendix on the subject.
I’m open to all constructive feedback. I’m also considering the worth of publishing the paper in its own right, after some adjustments, and welcome any thoughts or suggestions on that front.
For several months I’ve been working on revising a paper I’d written on the assassination of Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great.
In the course of this I found myself looking at the so called 'friends' of the young Alexander who were exiled shortly before Philip was killed. I had already dismissed as ‘fiction’ the alleged Pixodarus affair described by Plutarch. But that left raised the question that if that affair did not happen, why were they exiled? So I started to look at each of the hetairoi in a new appendix. That was largely straightforward except for Harpalus. As this draft paper will explain, his story is quite complex and has taken more work than all the other hetairoi.
The current draws upon a number of diverse and conflicting sources. In reconstructing Harpalus’ life the paper takes a critical look at what I consider the way Harpalus has been misrepresented in some of the primary sources, while providing a fresh interpretation of some of the key events in his life, including in particular his first flight from Asia.
Because it began life as part of a much larger whole, the work does include references to other parts of the original paper, such as Appendix 2, in which I look at the chronology of Philip’s marriages. If you have any questions on those matters I’m happy to answer them.
Part of that involved looking at the conspiracy theories that Alexander’s mother, Olympias, and/or Alexander himself were behind the assassination. This has led me to make my own revision on the chronology of those marriages in a new appendix on the subject.
I’m open to all constructive feedback. I’m also considering the worth of publishing the paper in its own right, after some adjustments, and welcome any thoughts or suggestions on that front.
Research Interests:
This paper argues that Marius political career was shaped more by the circumstances of the times in which he lived, rather than by his military achievements and possible Army reforms. The paper was originally written as an assignment in... more
This paper argues that Marius political career was shaped more by the circumstances of the times in which he lived, rather than by his military achievements and possible Army reforms.
The paper was originally written as an assignment in 1979. I have made a couple of amendments and added some new comments in the footnotes to take account of my tutor's feedback. (Sadly, I can't remember his full name), and recent work by Michael Taylor available from academia.edu.
The paper was originally written as an assignment in 1979. I have made a couple of amendments and added some new comments in the footnotes to take account of my tutor's feedback. (Sadly, I can't remember his full name), and recent work by Michael Taylor available from academia.edu.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Some five years separate the battle of Gaugamela from Alexander's next major battle against Porus at the Hydaspes in India. This paper is the first of two to review the course of events over those five years, starting with Alexander's... more
Some five years separate the battle of Gaugamela from Alexander's next major battle against Porus at the Hydaspes in India. This paper is the first of two to review the course of events over those five years, starting with Alexander's consolidation of control of the centre of the empire, the death of Darius, changes to the nature and structure of Alexander's army.
Research Interests:
This paper, written in the second year of my Honours’ degree, takes a brief look at the Athenian politician and general, Alcibiades. The paper does not offer a detailed account of Alcibiades’ career. Rather, it examines key events in... more
This paper, written in the second year of my Honours’ degree, takes a brief look at the Athenian politician and general, Alcibiades. The paper does not offer a detailed account of Alcibiades’ career. Rather, it examines key events in his life from the perspective of what the fluctuations of his career can tell us about the vulnerabilities of Athenian politics to manipulation during the Peloponnesian War.
Because this was one of my early assignments, the original paper did take it for granted that the person marking the paper was well acquainted with the historical background to the discussion. This was quite acceptable for the time, but for a broader audience I have added some background notes to put the discussion in context.
Because this was one of my early assignments, the original paper did take it for granted that the person marking the paper was well acquainted with the historical background to the discussion. This was quite acceptable for the time, but for a broader audience I have added some background notes to put the discussion in context.
Research Interests:
In 336 BCE the father of Alexander the Great, Philip II of Macedon, was murdered. The issues of who was or were responsible for the death and why, have been the subject of ongoing debate back to the time of Alexander, with at least eight... more
In 336 BCE the father of Alexander the Great, Philip II of Macedon, was murdered. The issues of who was or were responsible for the death and why, have been the subject of ongoing debate back to the time of Alexander, with at least eight theories now current. Much has already been written on this subject, and in modern debate, the question has largely focused on motive. The trouble with this approach is that after the fact it is quite easy to attach motives to all the suspects. But assassination and the murder of prominent public figures remains an ongoing problem. And there has been considerable research undertaken in recent years into trying to understand the mind and motives of the modern assassin. It is through the lens of this research that I have undertaken a new examination of the killer of Philip II of Macedon, while seeking to establish the facts of the actual event, in so far as they can reasonably be derived from the surviving ancient sources.
Please note: This is now the final draft of this paper, and replaces both the original article and the later part 2 article. If you have never read A E van Vogt's novel "The Voyage of the Space Beagle", it's likely you... more
Please note: This is now the final draft of this paper, and replaces both the original article and the later part 2 article. If you have never read A E van Vogt's novel "The Voyage of the Space Beagle", it's likely you will have never heard of Nexialism. Fortunately, van Vogt gave his readers a definition of this then putative new science at the start of Chapter 7. "Nexialism is the science of joining in an orderly fashion the knowledge of one field of learning with that of other fields." A. E. van Vogt, The Voyage of the Space Beagle, 1950. Essentially, Nexialism was an anticipation of the interdisciplinary, cross-disciplinary and multidisciplinary lines of research we now find proliferating in modern scholarship. But beyond that, van Vogt argues that to get scientists from different disciplines to work together in a truly effective way, a bridge-builder was needed: a properly trained specialist in the mechanics of interdisciplinary studies, who could br...
An examination of the early career of the Emperor Domitian, younger son of Vespasian. This is a recent revision of a research paper first written in my Honours' year. Brian Jones, whose works are cited herein, was my supervisor for this... more
An examination of the early career of the Emperor Domitian, younger son of Vespasian. This is a recent revision of a research paper first written in my Honours' year. Brian Jones, whose works are cited herein, was my supervisor for this work. Roman Imperial History. Roman History. Historiography. Prosopography. Epigraphy. Numismatics.