Author Description

This book investigates the nature and extent of Mesopotamian influence in Greek religious mythological works of the early archaic period, with the aim of elucidating Greek myths and the nature of the mythology involved. Beginning with Mesopotamian myths of the goddess Inanna and her consort Dumuzi, and the heroic warrior god Ninurta, the author examines major Greek works in the light of central Mesopotamian ideas, principally those incorporated in the journeys of the gods. Intriguing correspondences with Mesopotamian ideas and motifs shed light on the Homeric hymns to Apollo, Demeter and Persephone, Aphrodite and Athena, and on Hesiod's Theogony and Works and Days. Distinctive features are the careful and precise analysis of the myths, the extensive parallels adduced, and their complex and specific nature. This revelation of the extensive and comprehensive degree of Mesopotamian influence and the extraordinarily specific correspondences involved announce a breakthrough in the study of Greek mythology and religion.