The Shape of Victory

How applicable is ancient history to the contemporary environment? Is there an immutable nature to strategy? This analysis answers these questions using Alexander the Great as a lens to relate the historically unique to general patterns in strategic experience. This investigation proposes a strategy analysis model that encapsulates the reciprocal nature of strategy defined by leverage and translation. Translation transforms political policy to set conditions and mold the environment to posture for tactical success. Leverage then subsequently takes those tactical victories and turns them into strategic effects. The framework of the analysis model is formed by dimensions of strategy in three categories: society, preparation for war, and the conduct of war proper. These dimensions are the same for all periods and all times. The only difference is their relative influence and manipulation in relation to an adversary. In that regard, some of these dimensions are leveraging (increase strategic options) and some are mitigating (decrease freedom of maneuver). Leveraging dimensions create or expose enemy vulnerabilities and mitigating dimensions expose friendly vulnerabilities. The manner and degree to which these dimensions create these effects depends on principles of strategy. The astute statesman or general maximizes linear principles and balances dyadic principles for a coherent and successful strategy. Finally, this investigation applies this model more precisely to four of Alexander's campaigns: Granicus, Issus, Gaugamela, and Hydaspes. The analysis concludes that not only is ancient history a relevant guide to the contemporary strategic environment, but Alexander is an exemplary model for a disciplined study of both strategy and history.