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Depictions of India in Ancient Literature
Herodotus (484 BCE – c. 425 BCE) has been called the Father of History since he was the first historian known to collect his materials in detail, test their accuracy to a certain extent and arrange them in a well-constructed and vivid...
Definition
Cassander
Cassander (c. 355-297 BCE, r. 305-297 BCE) was self-proclaimed king of Macedon during the political turmoil following Alexander's death. Born in Greece as the son of Antipater, the regent of Macedon and Greece in the absence of Alexander...
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The Celtic Invasion of Greece
Between the 5th and 4th centuries BCE, Celtic tribes moved en masse into southern Europe, intent on seizing land and wealth to feed their swelling numbers. As these tribes began crossing the Alps, they came into conflict with the Romans and...
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Alexander Sarcophagus (detail)
The Alexander Sarcophagus is a late 4th century BCE stone sarcophagus adorned with bas-relief carvings of Alexander the Great. The Alexander Sarcophagus is one of four massive carved sarcophagi, forming two pairs, that were discovered during...
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Visitor's Guide to Ancient Dion
Dion is located at the foot of Mount Olympus in the north of Greece, in what would have been ancient Macedon. It takes its name from the most important Macedonian sanctuary dedicated to Zeus ("Dios” meaning "of Zeus”). Legend claims this...
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The Temple of Apollo at Didyma
Located about 11 miles south of the ancient port city of Miletus on the western coast of modern-day Turkey, the Temple of Apollo at Didyma or Didymaion was the fourth largest temple in the ancient Greek world. The temple's oracle, second...
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Bimetallic Medallion of Emperor Severus Alexander
Medallions with designs similar to coins could be worn as a symbol of allegiance, or given as prestigious gifts. They were specifically intended to be attractive, as display or presentation pieces. Bimetallic medallion of the Roman Emperor...
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Julius Caesar: The Faults Behind the Myth
Last March marked the anniversary of Julius Caesar's assassination over 2,000 years ago, and after two millennia, his legendary achievements still linger in today's consciousness just as they have for centuries. He was so revered that in...
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Severus Alexander Bust, Milan
First half 3rd century CE, this marble bust depicts Emperor Severus Alexander (225-235 CE). Unknown provenance.
(Archaeological Museum, Milan)
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Ptolemy I
Ptolemy I Soter (366-282 BCE) was one of the successor kings to the empire of Alexander the Great. He served not only as king of Egypt but also the founder of the Ptolemaic Dynasty, a dynasty which included the infamous Cleopatra VII...