5 Documentaries about Alexander the Great

A Journey Through History

Alexander the Great, one of history's most celebrated conquerors, continues to captivate the minds of historians, scholars, and enthusiasts alike. His remarkable achievements in military strategy and his vision of a unified empire left an indelible mark on the ancient world.

For those interested in exploring his life and legacy, documentaries offer a rich, visual account of his journey from a young prince in Macedonia to the ruler of one of the largest empires in history. Choosing the right documentaries about Alexander the Great can provide valuable insights into his complex character, military prowess, and the times in which he lived.

1) In the Footsteps of Alexander (1998)

"In the Footsteps of Alexander" is a BBC documentary series, first broadcast in 1998. It was written and presented by historian Michael Wood.

Over the course of the series, Wood retraces the vast and arduous journey of Alexander the Great from Macedonia to India, covering a distance of approximately 10,000 miles.

The series covers multiple countries, including Greece, Egypt, Iran, and India. By following Alexander's historical path, the documentary provides a deep visual and narrative understanding of his campaigns and the diverse cultures he encountered.

Michael Wood journeys alongside various local people, from Lebanese traders to Afghan guerrillas. This immersive approach offers a unique perspective on the historical and contemporary significance of Alexander's exploits.

For further information, see the IMDb page on the series.

2) Alexander's Lost World (2013)

"Alexander's Lost World" is a documentary series first aired in 2013. It was directed by David Adams.

The series follows David Adams as he journeys through Central Asia, retracing the steps of Alexander the Great and exploring the ancient civilizations that influenced his campaigns.

Each episode delves into the archaeological and historical evidence of Alexander's presence in the region, offering new insights into his conquests and the cultures he encountered.

For further information, see the IMDb page on the series here.

3) The True Story of Alexander the Great (2005)

"The True Story of Alexander the Great" is a History Channel documentary first aired in 2005. It was directed by Jim Lindsay.

This documentary provides a comprehensive overview of Alexander's life, from his early years in Macedonia to his death in Babylon. It covers his major battles, his strategies, and his vision for a global empire.

Featuring expert interviews and dramatic reenactments, the film offers a detailed and engaging exploration of Alexander's military genius and his enduring legacy.

For further information, see the IMDb page on the documentary here.

4) Beyond the Movie: Alexander the Great (2004)

"Beyond the Movie: Alexander the Great" is a documentary first aired in 2004. It was directed by Helen Fitzwilliam.

This documentary explores the historical context and accuracy of the events depicted in the film "Alexander" (2004) directed by Oliver Stone. It provides insights into Alexander's life, his conquests, and his lasting impact on the world.

Featuring expert interviews and historical analysis, the documentary offers a detailed look at the man behind the legend and the enduring legacy of his empire.

For further information, see the IMDb page on the documentary here.

5) Alexander the Great: The Path to Power (2004)

"Alexander the Great: The Path to Power" is a documentary that explores the early life and rise to power of one of history's most renowned military leaders. It delves into his formative years, his education under Aristotle, and the initial campaigns that set the stage for his later conquests.

Through expert interviews, historical analysis, and dramatic reenactments, the documentary provides a comprehensive look at how Alexander's early experiences and influences shaped his strategies and ambitions.

For further information, see the IMDb page on the documentary here.

Historical Context

Alexander the Great's life and achievements are deeply rooted in the history of Ancient Macedon and his extensive conquests that reshaped the ancient world. These areas provide a framework for understanding his impact and legacy.

Ancient Macedon

Ancient Macedon, located in the northern Greek peninsula, was a powerful kingdom under the rule of King Philip II. Philip's military reforms and strategic marriages strengthened Macedon, transforming it into a significant regional power.

His innovations in phalanx warfare and the introduction of the sarissa spear laid the groundwork for his son Alexander's future successes. Macedon's culture, blending Greek and local elements, influenced Alexander's perspectives and methods. The kingdom's strategic position allowed it to control important trade routes and resources, further boosting its power.

Conquests and Empire

Alexander the Great embarked on a series of ambitious military campaigns after succeeding his father. His conquests began with the Persian Empire, culminating in the pivotal Battle of Gaugamela where he defeated Darius III. This victory solidified his control over Persia and allowed him to expand his empire further.

He continued eastward, founding cities like Alexandria in Egypt, which became cultural and economic hubs. Alexander's campaigns extended to India, where he fought the Battle of Hydaspes against King Porus.

Though his empire stretched across three continents, it fragmented rapidly after his death, leading to the Hellenistic period where Greek culture melded with local traditions across the conquered regions. His strategic prowess and innovative tactics left a lasting legacy on military history and empire-building.

Impact on Modern Culture

Alexander the Great's life and legacy have had a broad impact on modern culture. This influence is evident in various forms of media and his lasting imprint on Western history.

Representation in Media

Alexander the Great has been depicted in numerous documentaries, films, and TV series. The 1956 film "Alexander the Great," though not critically acclaimed, remains a notable representation from the Golden Age of Hollywood. Recent documentaries like "Alexander the Great Vs Persia - Ancient War" offer vivid visuals and engaging narratives that bring his historical exploits to life. Netflix's controversial "Alexander the Great: The Making of a God" explores his relationships, challenging traditional portrayals and sparking discussions about his complex personality and historical impact.

Influence on Western History

Alexander's extensive conquests and the empire he built profoundly shaped Western history. Tutored by Aristotle and trained as a warrior, he ascended to the Macedonian throne at just 20. His campaigns expanded Greek influence, leading to the Hellenistic period, which blended Greek culture with Asian and African elements. This cultural diffusion accelerated advancements in art, science, and philosophy, shaping the intellectual foundation of the Western world. His legacy continued to inspire military leaders and thinkers throughout history, evidenced by his lasting title, "Alexander the Great."