5 Books on Mesopotamian Mythology That You Probably Haven’t Heard of
Mesopotamian mythology is fascinating, but it can be hard to find great books on the topic. Volumes on Greek, Roman, and even Eastern myths abound, but what about the cradle of civilization?
There are, of course, primary works like the Epic of Gilgamesh and the Enūma Eliš, but where do you turn to for more?
Look no further. Here are six books on Mesopotamian mythology that you probably haven’t read yet.
Gilgamesh the King by Robert Silverberg
Let’s get the novelization of the story of Gilgamesh out of the way. This fantasy novel by the award-winning Robert Silverberg is a fairly straightforward retelling of the original epic. The major difference is that he brings everything to life with the sumptuous detail of a modern novel.
This is a great way to reconnect with the story of Gilgamesh and enjoy something much longer and more relatable. And because it’s Silverberg, you know you are in good storytelling hands.
Chaldean Magic: Its Origin and Development by Francois Lenormant
This book was first published in 1877, so it has the qualities of an old tome that make it fittingly metal. It outlines the magical practice and mythological world of the Chaldeans — a group of renowned astrologers in ancient Assyria. With Chaldean Magic, you can learn how Mesopotamians once fought off evil spirits, treated illness, and combatted the difficulties of everyday life.
It isn’t an easy read, but it is fascinating. You are transported back to a time when the mythology of Mesopotamia was a living, breathing reality for the people who lived there.
The Treasures of Darkness by Thorkild Jacobsen
Pagan reconstruction is a notoriously difficult task. Modern people, wishing to worship in the old ways, find that the surviving records are actually quite scant. But a few great investigators have attempted the task of bringing back the old ways. Thorkild Jacobsen is probably the best to ever do it for Mesopotamian mythology.
Much of the book involves high quality translations of Sumerian poetry and Jacobsen’s insightful commentary. If you are interested in Mesopotamian mythology from an insider’s view, this is the best book for you.
Day of the Minotaur by Thomas Burnett Swann
This is a fantasy novel that gives us the tale of the Minotaur from the other side. But the real magic is in the way Swann builds up his world. The forest that the story takes place in is filled with mythic creatures of all kinds, giving us plenty of wonder and excitement along the way.
If you feel any doubt about this book, check out the original covers for all of Swann’s novels. That should give you an idea of the flair these bring to the table: plenty of sword-and-sorcery thrills packed in with mythology.
Inanna, Queen of Heaven and Earth: Her Stories and Hymns from Sumer by Diane Wolkstein and Samuel Noah Kramer
Yes, it is a long title, but the work deserves it. This is a modern retelling of the surviving ancient texts detailing the goddess Inanna. The book includes lavish illustrations that show you the archeological discoveries that show us her sometimes strange image.
Inanna is the oldest yet-discovered goddess, and so her story — written on four thousand year old cuneiform tablets — is vital to the understanding of Mesopotamian mythology.
Kur
And, of course, there’s Kur, a fantastical, action-packed, environmental retelling of the final years of Assyria. We humbly recommend this one to anyone looking for something fresh and modern, yet classic.
The book follows Isho, a young warrior, in his struggles against the impossibly powerful Assyrians and their malevolent god. Over an epic journey, he visits the Scythians, Babylonians, and even denizens of the underworld, Kur.
The novel has it all, from unearthly encounters with immortal armies to ancient criminal trials. Find it here on Amazon.
