What Makes Civilization?: The Ancient Near East and the Future of the West

A vivid new account of the 'birth of civilization' in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia where many of the foundations of modern life were laid

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2018
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The targeted destruction of ancient sites and monuments in the Middle East has sparked widespread outrage in the West. However, what is our connection to the ancient Near East? In this updated edition of "What Makes Civilization?" archaeologist David Wengrow delves into the origins of farming, writing, and cities in ancient Mesopotamia (Iraq) and Egypt, exploring the connections between these two civilizations. It is a story of how people first created kingdoms and monuments to the gods, as well as pioneered everyday practices that we now take for granted, such as familiar ways of cooking food and keeping the house and body clean. Wengrow questions why these ancient cultures, where so many features of modern life originated, have come to symbolize the remote and the exotic.

Today, perhaps more than ever, he argues, the beleaguered cultural heritage of ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia stands as a warning for the future. A warning of the sacrifices people will tolerate to preserve their chosen form of life; of the potential for unfettered expansion that exists within any cultural tradition; and of blood, perhaps yet to be spilled, on the altar of a misguided notion of civilization.

The ancient Near East was a region of immense cultural and historical significance, with its cities, empires, and civilizations leaving a lasting impact on the world. Mesopotamia, located in the present-day Middle East, is considered the cradle of civilization, where the first cities, writing systems, and agricultural practices emerged. The Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians were among the most influential civilizations of this time, and their achievements in various fields, such as mathematics, astronomy, and literature, continue to be studied and admired today.

Egypt, on the other hand, is renowned for its magnificent pyramids, temples, and tombs, which are considered some of the most impressive architectural feats in history. The ancient Egyptians were skilled in various fields, including medicine, mathematics, and engineering, and their knowledge of the Nile River and its irrigation system played a crucial role in their agricultural success.

The connections between Mesopotamia and Egypt were profound, with trade, cultural exchange, and political alliances being common between these two regions. The Egyptians, for example, were heavily influenced by Mesopotamian culture, and their language, religion, and art were heavily influenced by Mesopotamian traditions. In return, Mesopotamia was a major source of food, textiles, and other goods for the Egyptians, who in turn traded these goods with other civilizations in the region.

Despite the many similarities between Mesopotamia and Egypt, there were also significant differences. Mesopotamia was characterized by its complex political system, with multiple kingdoms and empires vying for power and influence. Egypt, on the other hand, was ruled by a single pharaoh, who held absolute power and was considered a god on earth.

The destruction of ancient sites and monuments in the Middle East, such as the destruction of the ancient city of Babylon by the Babylonians in 539 BC, has been a source of great sadness and outrage for many people. These sites and monuments are not only important historical and cultural treasures, but they also provide valuable insights into the lives and achievements of the people who built them. The destruction of these sites can have a devastating impact on the local communities and the broader global community, as it can hinder our ability to learn from the past and understand the origins of our modern civilization.

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of preserving and protecting ancient sites and monuments. Governments, organizations, and individuals have been working to raise funds, implement security measures, and promote awareness about the value of these sites. However, the task of preserving these sites is still challenging, as it requires a coordinated effort and a long-term commitment.

One of the most significant challenges facing the preservation of ancient sites and monuments is the issue of climate change. The changing climate conditions, such as rising temperatures, droughts, and floods, can pose a significant threat to these sites, as they can cause damage to the structures and artifacts. In addition, climate change can also lead to the displacement of local communities, who rely on these sites for their livelihoods and cultural practices.

Another challenge facing the preservation of ancient sites and monuments is the issue of urbanization and development. As cities grow and expand, they can encroach on the boundaries of ancient sites and monuments, leading to their destruction or degradation. In addition, urbanization can also lead to the loss of cultural heritage and the displacement of local communities.

To address these challenges, there are several steps that can be taken. Governments and organizations can work together to develop policies and regulations that protect ancient sites and monuments. This can include the establishment of protected areas, the implementation of security measures, and the promotion of sustainable tourism. In addition, governments and organizations can also work to raise awareness about the value of these sites and the importance of preserving them for future generations.

Individuals can also play a role in preserving ancient sites and monuments. This can include volunteering at these sites, supporting local communities, and advocating for the protection of these sites. In addition, individuals can also support organizations that work to preserve these sites, such as the World Monuments Fund and the International Council on Monuments and Sites.

In conclusion, the targeted destruction of ancient sites and monuments in the Middle East has sparked widespread outrage in the West. However, our connection to the ancient Near East is profound, and the preservation of these sites and monuments is crucial for our understanding of the origins of our modern civilization. The destruction of these sites can have a devastating impact on the local communities and the broader global community, as it can hinder our ability to learn from the past and understand the origins of our modern civilization. By working together to preserve and protect these sites, we can ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate and learn from the rich cultural heritage of the ancient Near East.

Weight: 282g
Dimension: 131 x 196 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780199699421