Phoenica

The History of Phoenicia

The history of the Phoenicians, explorers and merchants, is little known. What a paradox for this ingenious people, who invented the alphabet, to have left so few written traces of their existence. Their literature, recorded on papyrus, has disappeared. And yet this civilization fired the imagination of its contemporaries--the Jews in particular--inspiring terror among the Romans and Greeks, who depicted them as a cruel people who practiced human sacrifice. Their clients were the pharaohs and the Assyrians, their ships criss-crossed the Mediterranean, laden with the luxuries of the day such as wine, oil, grain, and mineral ore. Buried beneath the modern cities of Lebanon, and a few of Syria and Israel, ancient Phoenicia has resuscitated in this volume.

History of Phoenicia

In "History of Phoenicia," George Rawlinson delivers a meticulously researched and engaging narrative that explores the rich and complex civilization of the Phoenicians. Drawing from an array of ancient sources, including inscriptions, classical texts, and archaeological findings, Rawlinson presents a comprehensive analysis of Phoenician society, commerce, and culture. His writing marries scholarly rigor with an accessible literary style, enabling readers to appreciate the nuances of historical development while situating the Phoenicians within the broader context of the ancient world, particularly their interactions with neighboring powers such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. George Rawlinson, a noted historian and scholar of the ancient Near East, was significantly influenced by his background in classical studies and his tenure as a scholar of Assyriology. His profound interest in ancient civilizations, nurtured by experiences in the field, profoundly shaped his analytical approach in "History of Phoenicia." Rawlinson's work reflects an era of increasing interest in the historical narratives of marginalized cultures, as he sought to reclaim the Phoenicians' legacy, often overshadowed by their more dominant contemporaries. I highly recommend "History of Phoenicia" to any reader interested in ancient history, trade, or cultural studies. With its synthesis of relentless inquiry and thoughtful narrative, Rawlinson's work serves both as an academic resource and a fascinating exploration for those seeking to understand the profound legacy of one of history's most intriguing civilizations. In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience: - A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes. - The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists. - A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing. - A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings. - Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life. - Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance. - Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

Phoenicia