Book 4 Summary and Analysis

Alexander runs into resistance from seven towns, the largest being Cyropolis which is populated by a people known as Scythians. He takes all seven towns without much difficulty and begins to fortify one in order to make it another Alexandria, of which there are many founded during his empire-building campaigns. A large number of Scythians gather at the nearby Tanais River and taunt Alexander. Even though the omens are against taking action, Alexander attacks. The fighting is brief and the Macedonians win decisively, but Alexander drinks tainted water which causes him to fall ill with dysentery.

The Scythians, egged on by those who had helped Bessus in his bid to replace Darius, continue to attack but never gain an advantage. Alexander eventually arrests all the offenders. He calls for Bessus, and before sending him away to be executed, has his nose...