Assyriologist Selena Wisnom - Mesopotamia and the Making of History

Selena Wisnom's "The Library of Ancient Wisdom" unveils the rich history of Mesopotamia, from its gods and monsters to its advancements in science and literature. The book explores the vast collection of clay tablets from Ashurbanipal's library, offering insights into daily life, intellectual pursuits, and the cultural exchange that shaped the ancient world. Wisnom's work sheds light on the surprisingly sophisticated civilization of Mesopotamia, challenging common misconceptions and highlighting its enduring influence. The book uses the surviving texts to reconstruct the daily lives of Mesopotamians, their beliefs, and their contributions to human knowledge. It is a fascinating journey into a lost world that continues to shape our own.

This version of 'Gilgamesh' by Herbert Mason presents the classic epic in a verse narrative, emphasizing themes such as love, death, loss, and the transformative journey of Gilgamesh, the king of Uruk. The story follows Gilgamesh's friendship with Enkidu, their adventures, and Gilgamesh's quest for immortality after Enkidu's death. Mason's retelling is a blend of scholarship and poetic style, making the ancient tale accessible and poignant. The book also explores modern themes such as weakness, grief, and the human condition, while maintaining the core elements of the original epic[2][3][4].