Previous Knowledge Required: None. 

In this series, we will explore and discuss the life and times of Alexander the Great (Alexander III of Macedonia). The topics will include his early life and education; his rise to power; his campaigns into Greece, the Balkans, Asia Minor, the Middle East, and India; internal drama from his own generals (the Diadochoi), Hellenization of the East, influence of the East on the Greeks, military strategies (successes and failures) -- yes, we will touch on the war elephants and his faithful steed, Bucephalus; his retreat, subsequent death, and the power struggle of the Diadiochoi resulting in the partitioning of Alexander's empire. From there, we will briefly talk about the Seleucids, Antigonids, and Ptolemies, and the impact of Alexander's conquests on the world. Interspersed throughout each class will be personal and interesting tidbits. 

This class is broken up into five 45-minute lessons, in chronological order of the events happening. There will be no homework, but your student is welcome to take notes, and I will provide the PowerPoints to each student upon request (after the class has ended). There will be pictures, sculptures, video clips, and we will read excerpts from ancient sources who wrote about Alexander and his actions. We will discuss historical bias, as well as the events as they are presented by these sources.

This is a lecture-based, but very interactive class, and your student's voice is valued. In other words, we talk. A lot. I welcome comments, questions, and ideas all throughout the class because I believe that education is a conversation. When we discuss, we learn. We think critically. We retain the knowledge. I also understand that not all students enjoy participating verbally in class. They don't have to. They can use chat, or sit quietly and learn, if that is their preference. Each of us bring our own special skills to each class. I, however, tend to be excitable about the topics I teach. I am usually energetic, but I don't require the same energy from my students. They may interact with me and other students as much or as little as they are comfortable doing. 

Here is the class schedule for your perusal:
Week 1: The early life and rise to power of Alexander the Great 
Week 2: The conquest of the Persian Empire
Week 3: Let's meet the Diadochoi, Alex's most trusted men
Week 4: India and the Trek Home
Week 5: The End... the Division of the Empire and Its Lasting Legacy