Chaldea: From the Earliest Times to the Rise of Assyria
1886
Chaldea: From the Earliest Times to the Rise of Assyria
1886
Archaeology & Anthropology, History - Ancient
''Chaldea: From the Earliest Times to the Rise of Assyria'' by Zénaïde A. Ragozin, published in 1886, is a historical examination of the ancient civilization of Chaldea. The book details its culture, traditions, and decline leading to the rise of the Assyrian Empire, while providing insights into the geographic and historical context of Mesopotamia. Ragozin recounts significant events, figures, and the erosion of cultural memory as ancient cities fell into ruin, setting the stage for archaeological exploration and discovery of Chaldea's legacy.
About Chaldea: From the Earliest Times to the Rise of Assyria
Chapter Summaries
- Introduction I
- Describes the complete destruction of Nineveh and how ancient Mesopotamian cities became mysterious mounds. Chronicles the first European explorers like Rich and Botta who began excavating these ruins.
- Introduction II
- Details Layard's archaeological expeditions at Nimrud and his struggles with Turkish authorities. Describes the harsh conditions of desert excavation and the methods used to uncover ancient palaces.
- Introduction III
- Explains Mesopotamian architecture using brick construction due to lack of stone. Describes palace layouts, drainage systems, and the vast cemeteries of Chaldea with their various burial customs.
Key Themes
- Archaeological Discovery and Historical Recovery
- The book chronicles how modern archaeology has recovered the lost world of ancient Mesopotamia through excavation and decipherment. It celebrates the triumph of scientific method over time's destruction.
- Religious Evolution and Development
- Traces the evolution of human religious consciousness from primitive spirit-worship through polytheism to early monotheistic concepts. Shows how religious ideas develop and spread between cultures.
- Cultural Transmission and Influence
- Demonstrates how Chaldean civilization influenced later cultures, particularly Hebrew traditions. Explores how ancient knowledge and stories passed from one people to another.
Characters
- Zénaïde A. Ragozin(protagonist)
- The author and scholar who presents this comprehensive study of ancient Chaldean civilization. A member of multiple Oriental societies and expert in ancient history.
- Layard(major)
- British archaeologist and explorer who conducted groundbreaking excavations at Nimrud and other Assyrian sites. His discoveries revolutionized understanding of ancient Mesopotamia.
- Botta(major)
- French consul at Mosul who made the first major archaeological discovery at Khorsabad. His work opened the field of Assyrian archaeology.
- George Smith(major)
- Young British scholar who deciphered cuneiform tablets from Nineveh's library. Died tragically young while on expedition, but made crucial discoveries about ancient literature.
- Asshurbanipal(major)
- Last great king of Assyria who assembled the famous royal library at Nineveh. His collection preserved ancient Mesopotamian literature for posterity.
- Sargon I (Sharrukin)(major)
- Ancient Semitic king of Agadê, one of the first great historical figures of Chaldea. Legendary ruler whose story includes being found as a baby in a basket on the river.
