To study a period of great importance in the evolution of the Hellenistic world, in which the framework and ground rules for the subsequent history in antiquity of the Mediterranean, including the expansion and development of Rome, were set in place. To take the opportunity of seeing the Greek world in contact and contrast with cultures outside itself. Within the overall history of the Hellenistic world between these dates attention will focus on the development of, and relations between, the kingdoms. Attention will be given to such themes as the development of Hellenistic monarchy, questions of cultural interaction within the kingdoms, and political, social, military and intellectual developments generally. After Alexander's death, repeated wares between his Successors led to the creation by c. 300 BC of a number of separate Hellenistic Kingdoms.
Attention is paid above all to the documentary evidence provided by inscriptions and papyri.