Synopses & Reviews
Images of Nebuchadnezzar attempts to probe the diversity of cultural attitudes reflected in the characterizations of this famous king through an examination of both the original cuneiform sources as well as the accounts of chronographers written in Greek, Roman, and medieval times. Included in this revised and expanded second edition are two new chapters that examine both Nebuchadnezzar's administrative policies and the impact that his death had on both contemporary and later cultures. Both the positive and negative images of the king are explored, with conclusions being developed as to what the authors of the various surviving accounts actually thought the king really was. In the process, the whole nature of historiography in the ancient world is analyzed, and a number of broad conclusions are developed.
Synopsis
Includes bibliographical references (p. [167]-172) and index.
Table of Contents
The cuneiform sources -- The classical, medieval, and Hebrew sources -- Nebuchadnezzar the destroyer -- Nebuchadnezzar the builder -- Nebuchadnezzar the administrator -- The myth of Nebuchadnezzar -- The death of Nebuchadnezzar and its aftermath.