Trucks, Goats, and Greetings: Following in Alexander's Path, Introductions Ensue
In an extraordinary endeavour, British explorer Theodore May has set off on a daring eight-month expedition to retrace the footsteps of the legendary conqueror, Alexander the Great. This 2000-mile journey will take him through seven countries and territories, starting from the site of the Battle of Issus in present-day Turkey.
May's quest is not just a historical pilgrimage, but a unique blend of past and present, as he aims to explore the region's historical legacy while delving into the issues that shape it today. His journey will offer insights into the complex tapestry of the Middle East, a region that is far removed from the world Alexander the Great knew.
Recently, May encountered a local shepherd while traversing the Nur Mountains. Despite the language barrier, the two shared a moment of human connection, as the shepherd watched over his flock of goats. In a gesture of goodwill, May offered the shepherd bread and water, but his offer was declined.
May's trail food consists of simple provisions - bread and water - as he bushwhacks through olive groves, horse pastures, and grass meadows. The terrain is challenging, with the road through the Nur Mountains winding and making sweeping switchbacks. At one point, May sank up to his ankles in loose soil, a testament to the ruggedness of the landscape he is traversing.
May's experiences along his journey will be documented for The Global Post and can be followed on Twitter at @Theodore_May. He will also be contributing glimpses from his journeys to Intelligent Travel.
It is worth noting that while there are no direct historical accounts of a "Theodore May" following in the footsteps of Alexander the Great in the Middle East, the name Theodore has been associated with explorers and historical figures in the past. However, these associations are not related to Middle Eastern travels or Alexander the Great.
As May continues his journey, he reflects on the stark contrast between the Middle East of Alexander's time and the Middle East of today. His expedition serves as a testament to the enduring allure of history, as well as a reminder of the transformative changes that have shaped the region over the centuries.
- Theodore May's eight-month expedition, a blend of travel, adventure-travel, and history, aims to retrace Alexander the Great's path through seven countries, offering insights into the Middle East's historical legacy against the backdrop of contemporary issues.
- During his journey, May encounters a local shepherd in the Nur Mountains, demonstrating the human connection despite language barriers, even as he samples the simple trail food of bread and water, reflecting on the stark contrast between the Middle East then and now.
- chronicling his experiences for The Global Post and tweeting as @Theodore_May, May also plans to share glimpses of his journey with Intelligent Travel, embodying the enduring allure of history while reflecting on the transformative changes that have shaped the region over centuries.
