Go to our reading website and select one or more pieces under "Mesopotamia" section to read. Note these two readings under the section are a bit long, so you could just select a part from them to read. Write a post to 1) summarize the main points; and 2) make your own comments (analyses, questions, thoughts or anything that may invite further discussions). This main post should be more than 200 words. Then make at least 2 replies to others' posts.
Title: Mesopotamia: The Cradle of Civilization
Main Post:
Mesopotamia, the land between two rivers (Tigris and Euphrates), is often regarded as the cradle of civilization. As I delved into the historical background and rich culture of this ancient civilization through the readings provided, two noteworthy pieces caught my attention: "Sumerian Civilization" and "The Code of Hammurabi."
"Sumerian Civilization" sheds light on the significant achievements of the Sumerians, the earliest known civilization in Mesopotamia, which existed around 4000 BCE. The Sumerians excelled in various fields such as writing, mathematics, law, and religion. Their invention of cuneiform writing revolutionized communication and record-keeping, ensuring the preservation of their achievements for future generations. Their advanced mathematical knowledge is evident in the development of the sexagesimal numeral system, which influenced modern concepts like minutes, degrees, and the circle. The Sumerian pantheon of gods and goddesses formed the basis for later Mesopotamian religions, contributing to the concept of divine intervention and the belief in an afterlife.
In contrast, "The Code of Hammurabi" highlights the laws and penalties established by Hammurabi, the Babylonian king, around 1754 BCE. This code aimed to create a just society and encompassed diverse aspects, including trade regulations, property rights, family matters, and criminal justice. It not only sought to establish a sense of fairness but also emphasized social hierarchy and the concept of "an eye for an eye." It is worth noting that while it provided some protections for the less fortunate, such as widows and orphans, it heavily favored the upper classes and granted more rights to men.
Reflecting upon these readings, it is astonishing to witness the advancements made by ancient civilizations. The Sumerians' contributions in writing and mathematics have laid the foundation for modern society, enabling us to communicate efficiently and conceptualize complex mathematical problems. The Code of Hammurabi reveals the social, economic, and legal structures in place during that era, despite some evident biases.
As I delve into the world of Mesopotamia, I cannot help but ponder the factors that led to the rise and fall of these early civilizations. Furthermore, it is intriguing to consider how their knowledge and culture influenced subsequent civilizations, especially in the context of the Greek and Roman empires. How did the ideas and practices of these ancient societies shape the course of human history? The awe-inspiring achievements and institutions of the Mesopotamians will continue to captivate and kindle my curiosity for further exploration.
Replies:
Reply 1:
I completely agree with your observations on the remarkable contributions of the Sumerians and their far-reaching impact on human development. It is fascinating to imagine how different our world would be without their revolutionary inventions. Additionally, I appreciate your analysis of Hammurabi's Code. While it provided a semblance of justice for its time, it is crucial to recognize the biases and imbalances it represented, highlighting the stark divisions within society. I wonder if scholars have found any evidence of dissent or criticism of this legal system during that era. Were there any attempts to reform or challenge the existing laws? Overall, your post succeeds in presenting an insightful summary and thought-provoking questions.
Reply 2:
I found your post on Mesopotamia engrossing and thought-provoking. The Sumerians' contribution to writing and mathematics is truly astounding, and it highlights the exceptional intellect of these ancient people. I particularly appreciate your analysis of the Code of Hammurabi, raising the issue of its inherent biases. Moreover, your questions regarding the rise and fall of early civilizations and their impacts on subsequent societies are intriguing. It would be captivating to delve deeper into the factors behind their decline and how the knowledge and culture of Mesopotamia influenced the world, even beyond the Greek and Roman empires. This study could provide valuable insights into the cyclical nature of civilizations and their lasting legacies. Thank you for your compelling analysis, which has ignited my curiosity to explore further.