Histories and Historians of the Ancient Near East

This work examines the evolution of historiography in the ancient Near East, from the Sumerian and Akkadian periods through to the Hellenistic and Roman eras. It explores how various ancient civilizations—Sumerians, Akkadians, Babylonians, Assyrians, Egyptians, Israelites, Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans—used history not just as a record of past events but as a means of understanding the present, legitimizing rulers, and reinforcing ideological narratives. Through primary sources like royal annals, legal codes, creation myths, and biographical accounts, the chapter series delves into the intertwined roles of myth, religion, and politics in shaping historical memory. Focusing on key historians such as Herodotus, Livy, Tacitus, and Plutarch, the study reflects on the methods they used to record history and the philosophical and moral lessons embedded in their works. These historians, influenced by both their own cultural backgrounds and the vast empires they documented, offered not only a detailed account of political events but a moral and ethical framework for understanding power, leadership, and the trajectory of empires. Whether through the lens of divine will, moral virtue, or the effects of unchecked power, these ancient historians engaged with the past in ways that were meant to instruct future generations, preserving both the triumphs and failures of their civilizations. The analysis also highlights the unique contributions of each culture's historiography, from the mythological narratives of Sumerian kings to the biographical works of Roman writers. The way these societies constructed and understood their histories continues to influence modern historiographical practices, making them central to understanding the development of historical thought. Ultimately, the work demonstrates the profound interplay between history, identity, and power in the ancient world and how these elements were captured through the written word.