The Eastern Mediterranean in the Age of Ramesses II

The Eastern Mediterranean in the Age of Ramesses II offers a transnational perspective on the age of King Ramesses II of Egypt during the centuries of 1500 to 1200 BC. Shows how powerful states - stretching from western Iran to Greece and from Turkey to Sudan - jointly shaped the history, society, and culture of this region through both peaceful and military means Offers a straightforward narrative, current research, and rich illustrations Utilizes historical data from ancient Egyptians, Babylonians, Hittites, Mycenaeans, Canaanites, and others Considers all members of these ancient societies, from commoners to royalty - exploring everything from people’s eating habits to royal negotiations over diplomatic marriages

List of Illustrations vi Preface viii Acknowledgments xi Note to the Reader xiii 1 The World in 1279 bc 1 2 The Primary Actors: States 12 3 The Other Actors: On the Fringes of the States 46 4 Political Organization and Social Structure 68 5 Diplomacy and War 100 6 Food and Drink 134 7 Aspects of the Economy: Textiles, Metals, and Trade 153 8 Cultures in Contact 192 9 A Mediterranean System 223 10 End of an Era 235 Appendix: King Lists 255 Notes 261 Bibliography 266 Index 285