Reply To: Social stratification in the Ancient Near East

[Miranda Johansson]

I found the panel of alabaster showing Assurnasirpal II killing lions to be a very interesting demonstration of the strength and bravery. This was a ritualistic hunt for ruler’s to show their capabilities of killing worthy opponents. What is ironic is the guards and chariot that the ruler has for helping him kill the lions. It seemed to be a vague demonstration of strength.
<br>Another interesting example is the carved vessel of Inanna. The carvings on this vessel almost look similar to a food chain. At the bottom there are grains with rams and ewes above. Then we have naked men carrying food above the sheep. There is nothing significant about the men, it seems that their purpose is mainly to serve. At the top there is a priest-king, with more servants tending to him and Inanna. It seems as if there is a celebration of sorts. The “more important” individuals, the priest-king and Inanna, are being tended to and it seems as if all the attention is on them. They are also carved out larger than all the others on the vessel, as to show their significance in comparison. It seems as if the sole purpose of all things below the significant individuals are to serve them.
<br>I think that this demonstrates some of the social hierarchy in the importance of certain individuals in comparison to other people and even nature around them. They all exist for serving them.