Arrian

author

Arrian

85–175

A Greek historian, philosopher, and statesman of the Roman Empire, he is best remembered for writing one of the clearest surviving accounts of Alexander the Great’s campaigns. His work blends firsthand knowledge of military life with a deep admiration for classical Greek models, which helps explain why it remained so influential for centuries.

2 Audiobooks

The Anabasis of Alexander : or, The history of the wars and conquests of Alexander the Great

The Anabasis of Alexander : or, The history of the wars and conquests of Alexander the Great

by Arrian

Arrian on coursing : the Cynegeticus of the younger Xenophon, translated from the Greek, with classical and practical annotations, and a brief sketch of the life and writings of the author. To which is added an appendix, containing some account of the Canes Venatici of classical antiquity

Arrian on coursing : the Cynegeticus of the younger Xenophon, translated from the Greek, with classical and practical annotations, and a brief sketch of the life and writings of the author. To which is added an appendix, containing some account of the Canes Venatici of classical antiquity

by Arrian

About the author

Born in Nicomedia in Bithynia, probably in the late 80s AD, Arrian built a remarkable career as both a public official and a writer under the Roman Empire. He studied with the Stoic philosopher Epictetus, later preserving his teacher’s ideas in works that helped carry Stoic thought into later generations.

Arrian also held high office, serving as governor of Cappadocia and taking on military responsibilities on Rome’s eastern frontier. That practical experience gave his historical writing unusual authority, especially when he described leadership, campaigning, and strategy.

He is most famous for the Anabasis of Alexander, a history of Alexander the Great that became one of the most valued ancient sources on the conquest of the Persian Empire. Other surviving works show his wide interests, including philosophy, military tactics, and geography, making him one of the most versatile Greek authors of the second century.