the stage for a comprehensive study of Alexander's life, reflecting on the historical context of his campaigns against the Persian Empire and the cultural transformations that followed. Droysen emphasizes Alexander's unique position in history, marking the transition from the classical Greek period to the Hellenistic era. He discusses the complexities of Greek political life, the challenges faced by city-states, and the military strategies employed by Alexander. The text also hints at the far-reaching legacy and the hero-worship that surrounded Alexander, demonstrating how his actions shaped the geopolitical landscape of the ancient world. Overall, this opening portion establishes the scholarly approach that Droysen takes in exploring this iconic historical figure. (This is an automatically generated summary.)