Before the Muses (An Anthology of Akkadian Literature)

Comprehensive collection of ancient Akkadian literature spanning three millennia. This larger, completely new, 3rd edition contains many compositions not in the previous editions; new translations of previously included compositions; incorporation of new text fragments identified or excavated since the last publication; all new footnotes; references and commentary brought up to date to reflect scholarly work of the last 10 years; and 100 more pages than the old two-volume edition. "Before the Muses offers a comprehensive anthology in new English translations, of the best writing from the Mesopotamian lands of Babylonia and Assyria: myths, epics, love poetry, prophecy, hymns, prayers, stories, wisdom, proverbs, and magic spells. The richness and variety of this ancient written legacy reveal the ideas, beliefs, feelings, and artful expression of men and women who speak to us from the dawn of civilization."--BOOK JACKET

Before the Muses offers a comprehensive anthology in new English translations, of the best writing from the Mesopotamian lands of Babylonia and Assyria: myths, epics, love poetry, prophecy, hymns, prayers, stories, wisdom, proverbs, and magic spells. The richness and variety of this ancient written legacy reveal the ideas, beliefs, feelings, and artful expression of men and women who speak to us from the dawn of civilization.