What Happens at the End of Alexander the Great?

An engrossing spectacle set in the 4th-century BC, in which Alexander of Greece leads his troops forth, conquering all of the known world, in the belief that the Greek way of thinking will bring enlightenment to people. The son of the barbaric and ruthless King Philip of Macedonia, Alexander achieved glory in his short but remarkable life.

Robert Rossen's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Richard Burton (Alexander)'s journey. The son of the barbaric and ruthless King Philip of Macedonia, Alexander achieved glory in his short but remarkable life.

How Does Richard Burton (Alexander)'s Story End?

• Richard Burton: Richard Burton's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
• Fredric March (Philip of Macedonia): Fredric March's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
• Claire Bloom (Barsine): Claire Bloom's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

Is Alexander the Great Based on a True Story?

Yes — Alexander the Great draws from real events. The ending reflects documented outcomes, though Robert Rossen has taken creative liberties in dramatizing specific scenes for cinematic impact.

What Does the Ending of Alexander the Great Mean?

Alexander the Great's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Richard Burton may feel rushed. Robert Rossen's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.