Urban history starts in ancient Mesopotamia. In this volume Marc Van de Mieroop examines the evolution of the very earliest cities which, for millennia, inspired the rest of the ancient world. The author argues that the city determined every aspect of Mesopotamian civilization, and the political and social structure, economy, literature, and arts of Mesopotamian culture cannot be understood without acknowledging their urban background.

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The Eastern Mediterranean in the Age of Ramesses II offers a transnational perspective on the age of King Ramesses II of Egypt during the centuries of 1500 to 1200 BC. Shows how powerful states - stretching from western Iran to Greece and from Turkey to Sudan - jointly shaped the history, society, and culture of this region through both peaceful and military means Offers a straightforward narrative, current research, and rich illustrations Utilizes historical data from ancient Egyptians, Babylonians, Hittites, Mycenaeans, Canaanites, and others Considers all members of these ancient societies, from commoners to royalty - exploring everything from people’s eating habits to royal negotiations over diplomatic marriages

This book presents a clear, concise history of the extraordinary multicultural civilizations of the ancient Near East. Bestselling narrative of the complex history of the ancient Near East Addresses political, social, and cultural developments Contains in-depth discussion of key texts and sources, including the Bible and the Epic of Gilgamesh Includes numerous maps, illustrations, and a selection of Near Eastern texts in translation Integrates new research, and greatly expands the guides to further reading for this second edition