Analyzes the ideals and realities of general strategy in the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine worlds.

Examines a neglected aspect of the study of ancient military art. Analyzes the views formed in various ancient cultures regarding the theory and practice of general strategy. Brings together the latest research on general strategy from a wide range of academic experts.

Includes discussion on the theory and practice of general strategy in other contemporary cultures, including Persia, Arabia, and China.

This volume is unique as it addresses a central area of ancient military art by examining general strategy from Ancient Greece to the Byzantine Empire in the 12th century AD. It explores a range of ideas on how to be a successful general, showing how the art of general strategy, a professional activity variously pursued by the political elite, mercenary soldiers, and eunuchs, evolved and adapted to the changing notions of a good general.

Highlights the developments and continuities in this ancient profession in the Greco-Roman world. The chapters examine both the ideals of general strategy and specific examples of generals, considering the principles that were based on the roles they played and the desirable qualities in them. They discuss the interaction between military and political roles, the speeches generals made to their troops, the virtue of courage, and the honor of victory as well as defeat. Additionally, the contributors examine cross-cultural comparisons of general strategy, with specific chapters dedicated to Persian, Arabic, and Chinese perspectives.