Alexander Romance II

Questions and Answers

What trick did Alexander use to deceive the Persians into thinking a large army was approaching?

He used smoke signals to create an illusion of troops.

He advanced quietly under the cover of night.

He tied branches to sheep and created a dust storm. (correct)

He disguised his soldiers as merchants.

What did Alexander see in his dream that influenced his decision on how to communicate with Darius?

Ammon appearing as Hermes dressed in Macedonian attire. (correct)

A review of his military strategies.

An oracle warning him against trust.

A vision of victory in battle.

What was the primary reason Alexander hesitated to be his own messenger?

He feared that it would reveal his plans.

He lacked confidence in his ability to deliver a message.

He believed it was inappropriate for a king. (correct)

He thought it might distract him from the battle.

What was the reaction of the Persians upon seeing the torches and candles tied to the sheep?

<p>They were terrified and believed they were under siege.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What advice did Alexander receive from his satraps regarding the advice he received from Ammon?

<p>To follow the oracle's advice and not send a messenger.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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.

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.