Читать книгу Art of War - Sun-tzu - Страница 16

In the year 334 BCE, Alexander arrived on the banks of the Granicus [now known as the Biga Çay], a narrow, deep, and rapid stream in northern Asia. On the opposite side of the river was stationed the Persian army, which Darius, had sent thither to intercept his progress. The two armies remained in sight of each other a long time, as if dreading the event. At length, Alexander, impatient at the delay, took the command of the right wing of his army, and placing the left under the command of Parmenio, plunged into the stream. The trumpets sounded, and his troops leaped into the river after him. Surrounded by the flower of his army, Alexander madly buffeted the rushing current, and made rapid progress toward the enemy.

At length the centre of the Persian cavalry began to give ground, and immediately the two wings were broken and put to flight. Alexander did not pursue them far, but turned about to attack the Persian foot, which was engaged with his infantry. The Persians who had received the first attack of the Macedonians with firminess, upon the arrival of Alexander and his cavalry, instantly turned and fled. The Grecian infantry in Darius’s service alone remained. Alexander instantly rushed with his troops into the mass of the Greeks who made a vigorous resistance. Their desperate condition caused them to fight with an energy almost superhuman; but crushed by the superior numbers of their enemies, they were all cut to pieces except 2,000, who were taken prisoners.

(adapted from: The Battle Roll by E. Perce)

Albrecht Altdorfer, The Battle of Alexander at Issus, 1529.

Oil on panel, 158.4 cm × 120.3 cm.

Alte Pinakothek, Munich.