The Book Club: Mesopotamia and the Making of History
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The Shifting Sands of Sumerian Deities
This chapter examines the transition from female deities in the Sumerian pantheon to a male-dominated structure in Akkadian culture, with a focus on the goddess Ishtar. It discusses the brutal realities of Assyrian warfare and the cultural implications of artistic representations of soldiers and enemies, highlighting how these reflect societal values. Additionally, the chapter delves into the political strategies of ancient empires in managing populations, exploring connections between Babylonian myths and the Hebrew Bible.
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