From Sherds to Landscapes: Studies on the Ancient Near East in Honor of McGuire Gibson

This volume honors McGuire Gibson's contributions to archaeology in Mesopotamia,Yemen,and neighboring regions. It includes new research in landscape archaeology, urbanism, ancient languages, history, Iran, and Yemen, prehistory, material culture, and wider topics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 363 pages
Publication date: 03 September 2021
Publisher: Oriental Institute of the University of Chicago

This volume pays tribute to McGuire Gibson, a renowned archaeologist who has dedicated his years to the exploration and understanding of the archaeology of Mesopotamia, Yemen, and neighboring regions. Professor Gibson's extensive career was spent primarily at the University of Chicago's Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations department and the Oriental Institute, where he fostered a rich intellectual environment and inspired countless students, colleagues, and friends.

The contributions made by these individuals in this volume reflect the diverse interests and influences of Professor Gibson. It showcases groundbreaking research in various fields, including landscape archaeology, urbanism, ancient languages of Mesopotamia, the history of Mesopotamia, the archaeology of Iran and Yemen, prehistory, material culture, and broader archaeological themes.

The book opens with a foreword by Professor David W. Anthony, a prominent archaeologist and former colleague of Gibson. In his introduction, Anthony highlights Gibson's profound impact on the field of archaeology and his unwavering commitment to advancing our knowledge of the ancient world. He also acknowledges the significant contributions of Gibson's students, colleagues, and friends, who have played a vital role in shaping this volume.

The first chapter, authored by Professor Gibson himself, provides an overview of his career and the significant contributions he has made to the study of Mesopotamia. Gibson's expertise in ancient languages and his ability to decipher complex texts have played a crucial role in unlocking the mysteries of ancient civilizations. He has conducted extensive fieldwork in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen, uncovering ancient sites and artifacts that have shed light on the rich cultural heritage of these regions.

The subsequent chapters delve into the latest research findings in various areas of archaeology. For instance, Chapter 2 explores the landscape archaeology of Mesopotamia, focusing on the development of urbanism and the impact of environmental factors on human settlement patterns. Chapter 3 examines the ancient languages of Mesopotamia, including Sumerian, Akkadian, and Babylonian, and discusses their significance in understanding the history and culture of the region. Chapter 4 explores the history of Mesopotamia, from its early civilizations to the rise and fall of empires such as the Assyrians, Babylonians, and Persians. Chapter 5 focuses on the archaeology of Iran and Yemen, highlighting the rich cultural heritage and the unique archaeological sites found in these regions. Chapter 6 explores prehistory, including the emergence of human civilization and the development of early societies. Chapter 7 examines material culture, including pottery, sculpture, and jewelry, and discusses their significance in understanding the social and economic structures of ancient civilizations.

The volume concludes with a reflection on the legacy of McGuire Gibson and his contributions to the archaeology of Mesopotamia, Yemen, and neighboring regions. The editors acknowledge Gibson's pioneering work and his unwavering dedication to the field, and they express their gratitude to all those who have contributed to this volume.

In conclusion, this volume honours McGuire Gibson and his years of service to the archaeology of Mesopotamia, Yemen, and neighboring regions. It presents new research in various areas of archaeology, reflecting Gibson's diverse interests and the contributions of his students, colleagues, and friends. The book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and enthusiasts alike, providing a comprehensive understanding of the rich cultural heritage of these regions.

Weight: 1164g
Dimension: 298 x 228 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781614910633