Walter of Châtillon, Alexandreis

The Alexandreis is an account of Alexander the Great's life and achievements in ten books, which broadly follows the known historical narrative. It is dedicated to Walter's patron, William of Champagne (also known as ‘William of the White Hands’) and begins with Alexander as a young man, although it does not include enfances. In book i, Alexander is taught wisdom and good governance by Aristotle (unsurprisingly one of the most-copied sections of the poem in medieval manuscripts) before taking up his crown at Corinth after his father's death. After a stand-off with a reluctant Athens is resolved peacefully, Alexander destroys rebellious Thebes, despite the pleadings of the poet Cleades. Since Greece is now subdued, Alexander prepares to head to Persia to attack Darius. A description of Asia follows, including an anachronistically Christian reference to Jerusalem. Alexander visits the site of Troy and makes a sacrifice at Achilles’ tomb, wishing for similarly lasting renown. There Alexander recounts a dream in which he is told by a mysterious priest that he will conquer every race, but to spare Jerusalem. After the sack of Tyre, he visits the holy city and enriches it. In book ii, Darius, who is portrayed as softened by luxury, hears of Alexander's approach, and sends him deliberately insulting childish gifts in reference to his youth (a harness and a ball). Alexander reinterprets these as signs of his harnessing of the Persians and future domination of the earth. He defeats Darius’ troops under Mennon at Granicus, and enters the city of Gordium, where he cuts the Gordian knot. Alexander then advances into Cilicia, sending his subordinate Parmenion to secure Tarsus. Here he swims in the freezing river Cignus in midsummer heat, and becomes seriously ill, finally being cured by his doctor Philip despite letters warning him that Philip intends to poison him. The unfair death of Sisenes, one of Alexander's commanders, at the Macedonian's command, is briefly mentioned. Darius refuses advice to retreat, and makes a stirring speech to his men. Troops on both sides prepare for battle; Alexander likewise makes a speech. Darius’ shield is described, on which is pictured the history of the Persians, another frequently copied and commentated on aspect of the poem.