Download The Rise and Fall of Alexandria: Birthplace of the Modern Mind AudioBook Free

The astonishing story of the ancient city that invented the modern world

Founded by Alexander the Great and built by Greek pharaohs, the location of Alexandria at its height dwarfed both Athens and Rome. It had been the marvel of its age-legendary for its vast palaces, safe harbors, and magnificent lighthouse. But it was most well-known for the astonishing intellectual fluorescence it fostered and the library it produced. In case the European Renaissance was the "rebirth" of Western culture, then Alexandria, Egypt, was its birthplace.

It had been here mankind first learned that the planet earth had not been flat, originated atomic theory, invented geometry, systematized grammar, translated the Old Testament into Greek, built the steam engine, and passed their discoveries on to future generations via the written word. Julius Caesar, Anthony and Cleopatra, Jewish scholars, Greek philosophers, and devout early Christians all play a role in the rise and fall of the location that stood "at the conjunction of depends upon." Compulsively readable and sparkling with fresh insights into science, philosophy, culture, and invention, this is an irresistible, eye-opening delight.

Category: Classics