The Ancient Near East: A Very Short...
Wishlist
This book explores the lands of the ancient Near East from around 3200 BCE to 539 BCE. The earth-shaking changes that marked this era include such fundamental inventions as the wh…
Book Summary
This Very Short Introduction surveys the ancient Near East from the rise of cities around 3200 BCE to the Persian conquest in 539 BCE. Amanda H. Podany highlights pivotal inventions like the wheel, plow, writing, law, and diplomacy, showing how Mesopotamian, Egyptian, and neighboring cultures shaped later civilizations. Concise and accessible, it's ideal for students and curious readers seeking a reliable overview.
This book is not available
Store  |
Condition |
Deals & Coupons | Price |
Est. Shipping |
Total |
Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorry we could not find any result for “9780195377996” | ||||||
About The Ancient Near East: A Very Short...
Amanda H. Podany's The Ancient Near East: A Very Short Introduction offers a compact yet comprehensive tour of one of history's most formative regions. Spanning roughly 3200 to 539 BCE, the book traces the emergence of the world's first cities, states, and empires across Mesopotamia, Egypt, Anatolia, and the Levant. Podany emphasizes the era's earth-shaking innovations—the wheel, the plow, writing, astronomy, codified law, and diplomatic protocols—and explains how these developments influenced subsequent civilizations. Rather than a dry chronology, the narrative weaves together political history, social life, and cultural achievements, drawing on archaeological and textual evidence. As part of Oxford's Very Short Introductions series, it balances scholarly rigor with readability, making complex topics accessible to non-specialists. Readers gain a clear framework for understanding the region's major periods, from Sumerian city-states to the Neo-Babylonian empire, and appreciate why the ancient Near East remains foundational to modern law, science, and international relations.
Who should read The Ancient Near East: A Very Short...?
This book suits undergraduate students in history, archaeology, or religious studies seeking a concise overview; general readers curious about early civilizations; and educators needing a reliable refresher. It's also valuable for travelers to the region or museum-goers wanting context for artifacts. Anyone interested in the origins of writing, law, or diplomacy will find it rewarding. No prior background is required, though a basic familiarity with ancient history enhances appreciation.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Concise and accessible introduction to a vast 2,600-year period
- ✓ Written by a respected scholar in ancient Near Eastern studies
- ✓ Highlights key inventions and their lasting impact
- ✓ Balances political, social, and cultural history
- ✓ Part of Oxford's trusted Very Short Introductions series
Cons
- ✗ Brevity means some topics and regions receive limited coverage
- ✗ Lacks detailed maps or illustrations in some editions
- ✗ May feel too introductory for advanced students
- ✗ Chronological approach can overwhelm newcomers
- ✗ Limited discussion of everyday life and common people
Similar books
Frequently asked questions
What time period does this book cover?
It covers roughly 3200 BCE to 539 BCE, from the emergence of the first cities to the Persian conquest of Babylon.
Is this book suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is designed as an accessible introduction for general readers and students with no prior background.
Does it focus only on Mesopotamia?
No, it includes Mesopotamia, Egypt, Anatolia, the Levant, and neighboring regions, providing a broad regional overview.
Are there illustrations or maps?
The Very Short Introductions series typically includes some maps and illustrations, though the emphasis is on concise text.
Is this a textbook or a popular history?
It is a scholarly but accessible introduction, often used as a supplemental text in courses and enjoyed by general readers.
At Windsorbooks, we compare prices from trusted sellers so you can buy, rent, or sell textbooks at the best total price — shipping included.
As an Amazon Associate, Windsorbooks.com may earn a small commission on qualifying purchases.