What do you think?
Rate this book
The Ptolemies, Rise of a Dynasty: Ptolemaic Egypt 330–246 BC
“Thoroughly ‘reader friendly’ in organization and presentation . . . an ideal introduction to the creation and rise of the Ptolemaic era of Egypt.” —Midwest Book Review
In this first volume of his trilogy on the Ptolemies, John Grainger explains how Ptolemy I established the dynasty’s power in Egypt in the wake of Alexander the Great’s death. Egypt had been independent for most of the fourth century BC, but was reconquered by the Persian Empire in the 340s. This is essential background for Ptolemaic history, since it meant that Alexander was welcomed as a liberator and, after the tyranny of Kleomenes, so was Ptolemy.
This was the essential basis of Ptolemy’s power. He conciliated the Egyptians, but reinforced his military strength with Greek settlers, mainly retired or available soldiers. He built the city of Alexandria, but to his own requirements, not those planned by Alexander. The empire outside Egypt was acquired, perhaps for defense, perhaps by sheer greed. Ptolemy took over Cyrenaica (with difficulty), Cyprus, and Syria/Palestine. These had to be defended against his rivals, hence the development of his navy, and the Syrian Wars.
The succession was carefully managed, but not directly hereditary (Ptolemy II wasn’t the eldest son), and the new king was very different. He fought repeated wars in Syria, built up his navy in the Aegean to the greatest seen in the ancient world, and extended his empire into the lands of the Red Sea, Sudan, and Ethiopia. He taxed the Egyptians mercilessly to fund all these activities. Yet few of his wars were successful, and he stored up trouble for his successors. This volume by a historian of the period delves into these events in a clear, compelling style.
In this first volume of his trilogy on the Ptolemies, John Grainger explains how Ptolemy I established the dynasty’s power in Egypt in the wake of Alexander the Great’s death. Egypt had been independent for most of the fourth century BC, but was reconquered by the Persian Empire in the 340s. This is essential background for Ptolemaic history, since it meant that Alexander was welcomed as a liberator and, after the tyranny of Kleomenes, so was Ptolemy.
This was the essential basis of Ptolemy’s power. He conciliated the Egyptians, but reinforced his military strength with Greek settlers, mainly retired or available soldiers. He built the city of Alexandria, but to his own requirements, not those planned by Alexander. The empire outside Egypt was acquired, perhaps for defense, perhaps by sheer greed. Ptolemy took over Cyrenaica (with difficulty), Cyprus, and Syria/Palestine. These had to be defended against his rivals, hence the development of his navy, and the Syrian Wars.
The succession was carefully managed, but not directly hereditary (Ptolemy II wasn’t the eldest son), and the new king was very different. He fought repeated wars in Syria, built up his navy in the Aegean to the greatest seen in the ancient world, and extended his empire into the lands of the Red Sea, Sudan, and Ethiopia. He taxed the Egyptians mercilessly to fund all these activities. Yet few of his wars were successful, and he stored up trouble for his successors. This volume by a historian of the period delves into these events in a clear, compelling style.
309 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2022
19 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
June 12, 2024
This book offers a detailed and compelling analysis of the reign of the first two Ptolemies. The book begins with an account of how Ptolemy, a general under Alexander the Great, managed to seize control of Egypt and subsequently expand his domain to include Cyrenaica, Cyprus, Phoenicia, and various Aegean islands, thus establishing a formidable empire. The narrative then delves into the strategies employed by Ptolemy I and his son, Ptolemy II, to consolidate their power and administer their diverse territories effectively.
One of the aspects I particularly appreciated about this book is Grainger's thorough explanation of the internal affairs of Egypt within the broader context of the constantly shifting Hellenistic world. The frequent wars and alliances between former enemies are presented in a way that is both engaging and informative. Having read Grainger's previous works on the Seleucid Empire, I found that this background knowledge enriched my understanding of the complex political landscape described in this book. Essentially, the broader historical narrative is similar, but Grainger provides a fresh perspective by focusing on the Ptolemaic angle.
Despite the complexity of the numerous kingdoms and cities involved, Grainger's clear and accessible writing style makes the subject matter super comprehensible. This is particularly commendable given the dense and often convoluted nature of Hellenistic history.
Overall, this book is an excellent read for anyone interested in ancient history, particularly the Hellenistic period. Grainger's skillful storytelling and deep understanding of the era make this book both very informative and enjoyable.
One of the aspects I particularly appreciated about this book is Grainger's thorough explanation of the internal affairs of Egypt within the broader context of the constantly shifting Hellenistic world. The frequent wars and alliances between former enemies are presented in a way that is both engaging and informative. Having read Grainger's previous works on the Seleucid Empire, I found that this background knowledge enriched my understanding of the complex political landscape described in this book. Essentially, the broader historical narrative is similar, but Grainger provides a fresh perspective by focusing on the Ptolemaic angle.
Despite the complexity of the numerous kingdoms and cities involved, Grainger's clear and accessible writing style makes the subject matter super comprehensible. This is particularly commendable given the dense and often convoluted nature of Hellenistic history.
Overall, this book is an excellent read for anyone interested in ancient history, particularly the Hellenistic period. Grainger's skillful storytelling and deep understanding of the era make this book both very informative and enjoyable.
March 19, 2024
a dynasty is borne
A detailed analysis of the reign of the first two Ptolemies and how they ruled. It does go into the problems faced and caused by their policies and diplomacy. A good read.
A detailed analysis of the reign of the first two Ptolemies and how they ruled. It does go into the problems faced and caused by their policies and diplomacy. A good read.
April 22, 2024
Ptolemy II Philadelphus: Gluttonous Bureaucrat! Another great book by JD Grainger
August 13, 2025
finally updating my goodreads after recovering from my hell semester
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews