The History and Archaeology of Phoenicia (Archaeology and Biblical Studies, 25)

The History and Archaeology of Phoenicia draws on written sources and archaeological excavations to present the history and archaeology of Iron Age Phoenicia proper. Hélène Sader’s unique approach focuses on evidence from the Phoenician homeland rather than the colonies, to present a clear picture of Phoenicia and its inhabitants. Historical as well as modern maps with the locations of relevant archaeological sites familiarize readers with the topography and toponymy of the area. Sader’s evaluation and synthesis of the evidence is a corrective to assumptions of a unified Phoenician kingdom as presented in later written sources. An insightful historical account of Phoenicia that illustrates its cities, culture, and daily life Hélène Sader presents the history and archaeology of Phoenicia based on the available contemporary written sources and the results of archaeological excavations in Phoenicia proper. Sader explores the origin of the term Phoenicia; the political and geographical history of the city-states Arwad, Byblos, Sidon, and Tyre; and topography, climate, and natural resources of the Phoenician homeland. Her limited focus on Phoenicia proper, in contrast to previous studies that included information from Phoenician colonies, presents the bare realities of the opportunities and difficulties shaping Phoenician life. Sader's evaluation and synthesis of the evidence offers a corrective to the common assumption of a unified Phoenician kingdom. Features Historical as well as modern maps with the locations of all relevant archaeological sites Faunal and floral analyses that shed light on the Phoenician diet Petrographic analysis of pottery that sheds light on trading patterns and developments "This book draws on written sources and archaeological excavations to present the history and archaeology of the Iron Age in the land of Phoenicia. Sader draws on archaeological evidence from Phoenicia proper without filling in gaps with information from the Phoenician colonies in order to present an insightful picture of Phoenicia that illustrates its cities, culture, and the daily life of Phoenician culture"-- Provided by publisher Cover Contents Abbreviations Preface Introduction Phoenicia in Iron Age I Phoenicia in Iron Age II and III Phoenician Culture Phoenician Religion Phoenicia’s Economy Conclusion Bibliography Ancient Sources Index Place Names Index Modern Authors Index