Chapter 10 Commanders and Command Structure in Alexander’s Army

In: Brill's Companion to the Campaigns of Philip II and Alexander the Great
Author:
Waldemar Heckel
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Abstract

This chapter will discuss the basic organization of Macedonian military as it evolved from regionally recruited forces under the authority of their local leaders to an army subordinate to the king and with the campaign in Asia an army by the time of Alexander’s death, more Asian than Macedonian and Greek. Special attention will also be paid to the changing organization of leadership in the army. The traditional relationship between the Macedonian king and his officers was one both of structural command, but also one of camaraderie. As Alexander’s expedition progressed and the traditional relationship of companionship began to change into one of ultimate leader and subordinates, the relationship of the officers with one another became increasingly one of competition to influence and enhance one’s standing with the king.

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