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Questions and Answers
What trick did Alexander use to deceive the Persians into thinking a large army was approaching?
What trick did Alexander use to deceive the Persians into thinking a large army was approaching?
What did Alexander see in his dream that influenced his decision on how to communicate with Darius?
What did Alexander see in his dream that influenced his decision on how to communicate with Darius?
What was the primary reason Alexander hesitated to be his own messenger?
What was the primary reason Alexander hesitated to be his own messenger?
What was the reaction of the Persians upon seeing the torches and candles tied to the sheep?
What was the reaction of the Persians upon seeing the torches and candles tied to the sheep?
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What advice did Alexander receive from his satraps regarding the advice he received from Ammon?
What advice did Alexander receive from his satraps regarding the advice he received from Ammon?
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Study Notes
Alexander's Strategy in Persia
- Alexander led a large army to Persia, with the city walls visible from afar.
- To deceive the Persians, Alexander used local sheep, attaching tree branches to their backs to create a dust cloud.
- This dust cloud created the illusion of a vast approaching army, instilling fear in the Persian defenders.
Psychological Warfare Techniques
- At night, Alexander set torches and candles on the sheep's horns, making the plain appear to be on fire.
- The spectacle intensified fear among the Persians, heightening their sense of impending doom.
Dream and Divine Guidance
- That night, Alexander dreamed of Ammon appearing as Hermes, offering counsel.
- Ammon advised Alexander to approach Darius directly and warned against sending a messenger, citing the risk of betrayal.
Alexander's Decision-Making
- Despite initially thinking it dangerous for a king to be his own messenger, Alexander felt reassured by Ammon's guidance.
- He consulted his satraps (governors), who were against the idea of him being the messenger, indicating a tension between military strategy and superstition.
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Description
Explore the cunning tactics used by Alexander the Great during his campaign in Persia. This quiz delves into the clever strategy of using sheep to create a dust storm that deceived the Persian defenders. Test your knowledge on this historical event and the leadership of Alexander.
