Key facts
UNE unit code: ANCH507
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2026
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Alexander the Great is one of the most famous rulers in the history of humankind. Although his reign lasted only 13 years, his achievements had immense impact on the ancient world. Following his murdered father as king of Macedonia in 336 BC, he soon started a campaign during which he conquered the biggest empire of that time: the Persian realm spanning from western Anatolia to the borders of the Indian subcontinent.
In this unit you will explore the enigmatic person of Alexander, his Macedonian background, his Greek allies and enemies, the Persians and their empire and the famous battles Alexander fought against them. Attention will also be paid to the events after his sudden death in 323 BC culminating in the long struggles between his generals.
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of the politics, society and culture of the Hellenistic World;
- independently research, at an advanced level, political and historical theories about the political, military and social policies of Alexander the Great, thereby demonstrating autonomy, expert judgement and responsibility as a learner;
- expertly investigate, interpret, critically analyse, reflect on, and synthesise complex information and concepts about Alexander the Great and his world from both written and non-written primary and secondary sources;
- demonstrate a mastery of knowledge about Alexander's Empire, and reflect critically on his significance and impact in world history;
- generate and critically evaluate complex ideas and concepts at an abstract level about political leadership, governance, society, culture and history in the Hellenistic World, and especially about the political, social and legal institutions used to establish Alexander's regime; and
- expertly construct and communicate an effective, logical, evidence-based written argument dealing with theoretical propositions and conclusions about Alexander the Great and the Hellenistic World.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 10% | All offerings | Online Assessment No. Words: 1000 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Essay (2750 words; including Synopsis 250 words) No. Words: 3000 |
| Assessment 3 | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Supervised Exam It is mandatory to pass the Exam in order to pass the unit. No. Words: 2000
|
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
The Campaigns of Alexander
ISBN: 9780140442533
Arrian (ed. A. de Selincourt and revised by J.R. Hamilton), Pearson 1976
Text refers to: All offerings
Alexander the Great: A Reader
ISBN: 9780415667432
Worthington, I., Taylor and Francis 2nd ed. 2011
Text refers to: All offerings
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