The True Story of Alexander the Great

Rumored to be part god and part man, educated by Aristotle, and a king by the age of 20, Alexander the Great wanted to rule the world, uniting East and West into one huge empire. By the time of his death from fever brought on by battle wounds 12 years later in 323 B.C., the Macedonian ruler had reached India's Punjab river, conquered the Persian Empire, and was hailed in Egypt as a deliverer from Persian rule. Hosted by Peter Woodward, and featuring interviews with historians and scholars, as well as dramatic recreations and contemporary on-location footage, The True Story of Alexander the Great, aired on the History Channel in conjunction with the release of Oliver Stone's theatrical flop Alexander, aims to help viewers understand Alexander and his times, as well as separate history from Hollywood. Also known as a master tactician, military strategist, and fierce leader, Alexander's signature battle plans are examined in detail here using computer graphics. Far from being mere military victories, Alexander's conquests would lead to the spread of Greek culture and language, with far-reaching historical and cultural impact. DVD extras include a "making-of" featurette. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (L. Stevens)