Alexandria

Alexandria's Great Lighthouse, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, was a beacon for mariners and travellers for hundreds of years. Similarly, during its "golden age", the Great Library and Mouseion acted as a beacon for scholars and academicians. This volume aims to present Alexandria as seen through the eyes of Egyptians who are experts in their fields. It traces the origins of the city back to the early relations between Egypt and Greece. It examines the historic decision by Alexander the Great, to move the capital of Egypt from Memphis to the new city of Alexandria; and goes on to discuss the social, political and cultural dynamics that shaped the city during its 1000 years as Egypt's capital. The growth, contributions and fortunes of the Great Library and Mouseion are considered, as are both their political and cultural effects, and their destruction. The text continues by tracing the evolution and growth of Alexandria during the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries.