From the Battle of the Granicus in 334 BCE, the shield’s inscription

Abstract

This paper is about the inscriptions on the shields that were carved after the first battle the Macedonians fought against the Persians. It is basically about what the carving might symbolize to the people at a time and what Alexander III wanted to portray in this inscription. In this work the main essential message of the shield is about Alexander dedicating the victory of the Battle of the River Granicus to himself and the soldiers fighting at his side. Alexander is also dedicating his victory to Athena since he sent the shields back to Athens. The text also left out the Spartans since they didn’t take part in the battle. This piece may allow people to understand more about Alexander’s early aims for his conquests and how he portrayed the people of the ancient world. It may also give some insight into Alexander’s character as well.