Theogony by Hesiod translated by Norman O. Brown: Book Discussion

(Book Review--Blogging the Canon, Greek Mythology, The Classics)

Started: January 27, 2026

(This is my first time reading this book, so according to my new rules, I'm doing this as a video only review.)

Theogony by Hesiod translated by Norman O. Brown: Book Discussion

Links to stuff mentioned:

* The Iliad by Homer: https://youtu.be/BwJBerNrwIY

* The Odyssey by Homer: https://youtu.be/KykQ5rtaPh0

* Enheduana: The Complete Poems of the World's First Author: https://youtu.be/HOBVuEcxqFs

* Starting: Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster: https://youtu.be/GntFy0nIRPA

* The Book of Genesis: https://youtu.be/hQ3kOiHfHkI

* Enuma Elish: https://youtu.be/xSY_h8helQo

* The Myth of the Plow: https://youtu.be/fmKzO-E47t0

* Bulfinch's Mythology: https://youtu.be/GNhGwoDHOiQ

* Hesiod's Theogony - The Greek God Family Tree (partially) Animated: https://youtu.be/XWyH1YhO9dY?si=z9Fqk7w49DisMdMl

* The  H. G. EVELYN-WHITE version online: https://www.theoi.com/Text/HesiodTheogony.html

Related playlists:

The Classics Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x53EsuWSZ-z0uFGL_0Jl6F1&si=LW7xfNpbrJVxsWts

Book Review Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7dao6py7ODX_PkUvrAEch7

Books I Read in 2026: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7YYl7seud9ov0n6dtdHzvj&si=iMERlWtiF0Rq2-uy

Hesiod Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x72TMSa6sx452mecsjOuuUn&si=hNTQb6ZjJVmquCwO

Greek Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5XDvOBMuaj0mxsLGrUoOyG&si=BKw4ChauPFbZ3o_C

Preclassical Greek Literature 800-500 BC Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7IFM9pT9z7Oc3ELV2mEz_N&si=beCpSRbhiIRz32Oo

Greek Mythology Playlists: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5IDSN7E3MWlyZ2a4i_SlkQ

I was able to read this book thanks to the Michigan statewide state-wide interlibrary loan service called MeLCat, which may be in danger thanks to a Presidential executive order.  If you, like me, enjoy using MeLCat, contact your local representatives and let them know. 

Enheduana: The Complete Poems of the World's First Author by Sophus Helle: Book Review

(Book Review--Blogging the Canon, The Classics)

Started: January 6, 2026

(This is my first time reading this book, so according to my new rules, I'm doing this as a video only review.)

Enheduana: The Complete Poems of the World's First Author by Sophus Helle: Book Review

Links to stuff mentioned:

* Starting: Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster: https://youtu.be/GntFy0nIRPA

* Sargon, King of Battle: https://youtu.be/hIoAKGIC_lw

* The Cuthaean Legend of Naram-Sin: https://youtu.be/gwC-DkgwkF8

* The Epic of Gilgamesh: https://youtu.be/vl_3plhriFk

* Psalms: https://youtu.be/jzVA0v9Tz1o

Related playlists:

The Classics Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x53EsuWSZ-z0uFGL_0Jl6F1&si=LW7xfNpbrJVxsWts

Book Review Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7dao6py7ODX_PkUvrAEch7

Books I Read in 2026: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7YYl7seud9ov0n6dtdHzvj&si=iMERlWtiF0Rq2-uy

Sumerian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x47I_0hcsFHZaOY_7W0sQZ1&si=I6nYHDZJQKSlmKMP

Psalms (The Jerusalem Bible): Book Discussion

(Book Review--The Bible, Religion, Reread, The Classics, Blogging the Canon) 

Part of my project to read through the Bible.  

(This is a reread.  I originally read this book in 7th grade.  But since this is my first time reviewing this book on this blog, according to my new rules, I'm doing this as a video only review.) 

Psalms (The Jerusalem Bible): Book Discussion

Commonplace Book:

* Psalm 44

* Psalm 74

* Psalm 80

* Psalm 83

* Psalm 137

Links to stuff mentioned:

* Introduction to the Old Testament by Christine Hayes: https://youtu.be/UFeqGtb3zAE

* Steve Donoghue: Western Canon Starter Kit #1: The Bible! https://youtu.be/WVL3rKcv0HQ?si=QNkYzfl-7JTVVxZx

* I've double checked and it turns out he added the bit about Psalms in a comment (not a video): "SO glad this is being so enthusiastically received! We'll move on to Homer next, but first I wanted to address the oversight so many of you are pointing out: yes, by all means, add the Book of Psalms to the list!" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVL3rKcv0HQ&lc=UgjVUI78P9PA_3gCoAEC

I explain about my background with the Bible and my reasons for doing this read-through in this blog post here: https://joelswagman.blogspot.com/2022/01/the-book-of-genesis-from-jerusalem-bible.html

Related Playlists:

* The Bible Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7_mCy4E6zi0MGTnFuQhSHH

* The Old Testament Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x6VtASA7X3yikOrrlb4r-Wa&si=wiudFXcTdzcrS7iX

* Rereads Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5dMXnK5v4Yc7a8MF5p32Bx&si=CI4fSEdebIImr6XG

* Religion Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x4lHj0pF2kXoTPkm97Kajxe&si=85GNNALUpRsU4nxA

* The Classics Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x53EsuWSZ-z0uFGL_0Jl6F1&si=LW7xfNpbrJVxsWts

* Books I Read in 2026: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7YYl7seud9ov0n6dtdHzvj&si=iMERlWtiF0Rq2-uy

* Book Review Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7dao6py7ODX_PkUvrAEch7

Gula Hymn of Bullutsa-Rabi (from Before the Muses by Benjamin R. Foster): Summary and Discussion

(Book Review--Blogging the Canon, Classics)

From my reading of Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster

Gula Hymn of Bullutsa-Rabi (from Before the Muses by Benjamin R. Foster): Summary and Discussion

Links to stuff mentioned:

* My video on the Epic of Anzu: https://youtu.be/4N19KSSkuRY

* Wikipedia article on Bullussa-rabi's Hymn to Gula (stub): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bullussa-rabi%27s_Hymn_to_Gula

* Wikipedia article on Bullussa-rabi: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bullu%E1%B9%ADsa-rabi

Related Playlists

* Classic Books Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x53EsuWSZ-z0uFGL_0Jl6F1&si=giDKwvKMzCWtXvzl

* Book Review Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7dao6py7ODX_PkUvrAEch7&si=kiFeTonJJ3Ux5H1T

* Books I read in 2025: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7Fev7Uv6_tzuSf84LtYwQu&si=Im1rdozRXrgGnr99

* Babylonian / Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5BtyzrSv3NMPA3VpzLIuq8&si=x0yeQPCkXyxtPCr4

* Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x4Cvg1Yw4LQyKEXIwDwo1m0&si=X6OZ7Ectw-fzHbCn

* Akkadian Literature: The Mature Period 1500-1000 BC Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x545tikwEDqcgD_qmFqtLUF&si=XlI2gaYNnh1HGPyf

I was able to read this book thanks to the Michigan statewide state-wide interlibrary loan service called MeLCat, which may be in danger thanks to a Presidential executive order.  If you, like me, enjoy using MeLCat, contact your local representatives and let them know. 

Check out this book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4k08VgZ            (This is an Amazon Associate's Link.  If you buy anything through that link, I get a commission.)

Etana (from Before the Muses by Benjamin R. Foster): Summary and Discussion

(Book Review--Blogging the Canon, Classics)

From my reading of Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster

Etana (from Before the Muses by Benjamin R. Foster): Summary and Discussion

Links to stuff mentioned:

* The Eagle and the Fox: https://youtu.be/1n46tTZGhSU

* Wikipedia article: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Etana

Related Playlists

* Classic Books Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x53EsuWSZ-z0uFGL_0Jl6F1&si=giDKwvKMzCWtXvzl

* Book Review Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7dao6py7ODX_PkUvrAEch7&si=kiFeTonJJ3Ux5H1T

* Books I read in 2025: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7Fev7Uv6_tzuSf84LtYwQu&si=Im1rdozRXrgGnr99

* Babylonian / Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5BtyzrSv3NMPA3VpzLIuq8&si=x0yeQPCkXyxtPCr4

* Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x4Cvg1Yw4LQyKEXIwDwo1m0&si=X6OZ7Ectw-fzHbCn

* Akkadian Literature: The Mature Period 1500-1000 BC Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x545tikwEDqcgD_qmFqtLUF&si=XlI2gaYNnh1HGPyf

I was able to read this book thanks to the Michigan statewide state-wide interlibrary loan service called MeLCat, which may be in danger thanks to a Presidential executive order.  If you, like me, enjoy using MeLCat, contact your local representatives and let them know. 

Check out this book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4k08VgZ            (This is an Amazon Associate's Link.  If you buy anything through that link, I get a commission.)

The Adapa Story (from Before the Muses by Benjamin R. Foster): Summary and Discussion

Summary of:

* Adapa and the South Wind

* Adapa and Enmerkar

(Book Review--Blogging the Canon, Classics)

From my reading of Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster

The Adapa Story (from Before the Muses by Benjamin R. Foster): Summary and Discussion

Links to stuff mentioned:

Descent of Ishtar to the Netherworld: https://youtu.be/Mz1ZGspCJW8

Wikipedia article: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adapa

Related Playlists

* Classic Books Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x53EsuWSZ-z0uFGL_0Jl6F1&si=giDKwvKMzCWtXvzl

* Book Review Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7dao6py7ODX_PkUvrAEch7&si=kiFeTonJJ3Ux5H1T

* Books I read in 2025: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7Fev7Uv6_tzuSf84LtYwQu&si=Im1rdozRXrgGnr99

* Babylonian / Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5BtyzrSv3NMPA3VpzLIuq8&si=x0yeQPCkXyxtPCr4

* Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x4Cvg1Yw4LQyKEXIwDwo1m0&si=X6OZ7Ectw-fzHbCn

* Akkadian Literature: The Mature Period 1500-1000 BC Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x545tikwEDqcgD_qmFqtLUF&si=XlI2gaYNnh1HGPyf

I was able to read this book thanks to the Michigan statewide state-wide interlibrary loan service called MeLCat, which may be in danger thanks to a Presidential executive order.  If you, like me, enjoy using MeLCat, contact your local representatives and let them know. 

Support This Blog: 

Did you enjoy this review? Consider supporting me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/joelswagman

Support me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/JoelSwagman

Check out this book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4k08VgZ            (This is an Amazon Associate's Link.  If you buy anything through that link, I get a commission.)

Nergal and Ereshkigal (from Before the Muses by Benjamin R. Foster): Summary and Discussion

(Book Review--Blogging the Canon, Classics)

From my reading of Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster

Nergal and Ereshkigal (from Before the Muses by Benjamin R. Foster): Summary and Discussion

Related Playlists

* Classic Books Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x53EsuWSZ-z0uFGL_0Jl6F1&si=giDKwvKMzCWtXvzl

* Book Review Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7dao6py7ODX_PkUvrAEch7&si=kiFeTonJJ3Ux5H1T

* Books I read in 2025: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7Fev7Uv6_tzuSf84LtYwQu&si=Im1rdozRXrgGnr99

* Babylonian / Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5BtyzrSv3NMPA3VpzLIuq8&si=x0yeQPCkXyxtPCr4

* Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x4Cvg1Yw4LQyKEXIwDwo1m0&si=X6OZ7Ectw-fzHbCn

* Akkadian Literature: The Mature Period 1500-1000 BC Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x545tikwEDqcgD_qmFqtLUF&si=XlI2gaYNnh1HGPyf

I was able to read this book thanks to the Michigan statewide state-wide interlibrary loan service called MeLCat, which may be in danger thanks to a Presidential executive order.  If you, like me, enjoy using MeLCat, contact your local representatives and let them know. 

Support This Blog: 

Did you enjoy this review? Consider supporting me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/joelswagman

Support me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/JoelSwagman

Check out this book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4k08VgZ            (This is an Amazon Associate's Link.  If you buy anything through that link, I get a commission.)

Descent of Ishtar to the Netherworld translated by Benjamin R. Foster (from Before the Muses): Review

(Book Review--Blogging the Canon, Classics)

From my reading of Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster

Descent of Ishtar to the Netherworld translated by Benjamin R. Foster (from Before the Muses):Review

Here are the Sumerian names I had trouble remembering in the video:

Ishtar= Inanna

Tammuz= Dumuzi

Wikipedia article is here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Descent_of_Inanna_into_the_Underworld

Related Playlists

* Classic Books Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x53EsuWSZ-z0uFGL_0Jl6F1&si=giDKwvKMzCWtXvzl

* Book Review Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7dao6py7ODX_PkUvrAEch7&si=kiFeTonJJ3Ux5H1T

* Books I read in 2025: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7Fev7Uv6_tzuSf84LtYwQu&si=Im1rdozRXrgGnr99

* Babylonian / Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5BtyzrSv3NMPA3VpzLIuq8&si=x0yeQPCkXyxtPCr4

* Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x4Cvg1Yw4LQyKEXIwDwo1m0&si=X6OZ7Ectw-fzHbCn

* Akkadian Literature: The Mature Period 1500-1000 BC Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x545tikwEDqcgD_qmFqtLUF&si=XlI2gaYNnh1HGPyf

I was able to read this book thanks to the Michigan statewide state-wide interlibrary loan service called MeLCat, which may be in danger thanks to a Presidential executive order.  If you, like me, enjoy using MeLCat, contact your local representatives and let them know. 

Support This Blog: 

Did you enjoy this review? Consider supporting me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/joelswagman

Support me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/JoelSwagman

Check out this book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4k08VgZ            (This is an Amazon Associate's Link.  If you buy anything through that link, I get a commission.)

The Myth of the Plow translated by Benjamin R. Foster (from Before the Muses): Summary & Discussion

(Book Review--Blogging the Canon, Classics)

Other titles: Dynasty of Dunnum, Theogony of Dunnum, Theogony of Dunnu, The Harab Myth

As I mentioned in the video, this is a reread of sorts, because I read this myth before when reading Babylonian Creation Myths by W.G. Lambert.  But since I opted not to review it then, I'm counting this as a first time review.

From my reading of Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster

The Myth of the Plow translated by Benjamin R. Foster (from Before the Muses): Summary & Discussion

Links to Stuff mentioned: 

* Starting: Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster: https://youtu.be/GntFy0nIRPA

* My review of Babylonian Creation Myths by W.G. Lambert: https://youtu.be/0o7NpluHywc

* My review of The Routledge Handbook of Greek Mythology by Robin Hard: https://youtu.be/8yuLBgQbJ8A

* Oldest Stories Podcast episode: https://youtu.be/a9CG1KG-sb0?si=VSPG3ohcfek7mxZS

* Dynasty of Dunnum Wikipedia page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dynasty_of_Dunnum

Some other interesting articles: https://ancientstudies.harvard.edu/sites/g/files/omnuum9421/files/ancientstudies/files/theogony_of_dunnu_edition_lambert_mc_16_01.pdf

http://www.melammu-project.eu/database/gen_html/a0001475.html

Related Playlists

* Classic Books Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x53EsuWSZ-z0uFGL_0Jl6F1&si=giDKwvKMzCWtXvzl

* Book Review Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7dao6py7ODX_PkUvrAEch7&si=kiFeTonJJ3Ux5H1T

* Books I read in 2025: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7Fev7Uv6_tzuSf84LtYwQu&si=Im1rdozRXrgGnr99

* Babylonian / Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5BtyzrSv3NMPA3VpzLIuq8&si=x0yeQPCkXyxtPCr4

* Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x4Cvg1Yw4LQyKEXIwDwo1m0&si=X6OZ7Ectw-fzHbCn

* Akkadian Literature: The Mature Period 1500-1000 BC Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x545tikwEDqcgD_qmFqtLUF&si=XlI2gaYNnh1HGPyf

I was able to read this book thanks to the Michigan statewide state-wide interlibrary loan service called MeLCat, which may be in danger thanks to a Presidential executive order.  If you, like me, enjoy using MeLCat, contact your local representatives and let them know. 

Support This Blog: 

Did you enjoy this review? Consider supporting me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/joelswagman

Support me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/JoelSwagman

Check out this book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4k08VgZ            (This is an Amazon Associate's Link.  If you buy anything through that link, I get a commission.)

Counsels of Wisdom translated by Benjamin R. Foster (from Before the Muses): Summary and Discussion

(Book Review--Blogging the Canon, Classics)

From my reading of Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster

Counsels of Wisdom translated by Benjamin R. Foster (from Before the Muses): Summary and Discussion

Links to Stuff mentioned: 

* Starting: Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster: https://youtu.be/GntFy0nIRPA

* Wikipedia article for Counsels of Wisdom: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Counsels_of_Wisdom

* Electronic Babylonian Library article for Counsels of Wisdom: https://www.ebl.lmu.de/corpus/L/2/3

* The full text on the Electronic Babylonian Library: https://www.ebl.lmu.de/corpus/L/2/3/SB/-

* Reading the Old Testament: An Introduction by Lawrence Boadt: Book Review: https://youtu.be/Kzy3kstCJ_o

Related Playlists

* Classic Books Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x53EsuWSZ-z0uFGL_0Jl6F1&si=giDKwvKMzCWtXvzl

* Book Review Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7dao6py7ODX_PkUvrAEch7&si=kiFeTonJJ3Ux5H1T

* Books I read in 2025: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7Fev7Uv6_tzuSf84LtYwQu&si=Im1rdozRXrgGnr99

* Babylonian / Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5BtyzrSv3NMPA3VpzLIuq8&si=x0yeQPCkXyxtPCr4

* Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x4Cvg1Yw4LQyKEXIwDwo1m0&si=X6OZ7Ectw-fzHbCn

* Akkadian Literature: The Mature Period 1500-1000 BC Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x545tikwEDqcgD_qmFqtLUF&si=XlI2gaYNnh1HGPyf

I was able to read this book thanks to the Michigan statewide state-wide interlibrary loan service called MeLCat, which may be in danger thanks to a Presidential executive order.  If you, like me, enjoy using MeLCat, contact your local representatives and let them know. 

Support This Blog: 

Did you enjoy this review? Consider supporting me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/joelswagman

Support me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/JoelSwagman

Check out this book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4k08VgZ            (This is an Amazon Associate's Link.  If you buy anything through that link, I get a commission.)

Marduk Prophecy translated by Benjamin R. Foster (from Before the Muses): Summary and Discussion

(Book Review--Blogging the Canon, Classics)

From my reading of Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster

Marduk Prophecy translated by Benjamin R. Foster (from Before the Muses): Summary and Discussion

Links to Stuff mentioned: 

* Starting: Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster: https://youtu.be/GntFy0nIRPA

* My review of the Enuma Elish: https://youtu.be/xSY_h8helQo

* Tukulti-Ninurta Epic: https://youtu.be/9Tsh1Cm05JM

* Assyria: The Rise and Fall of the World's First Empire by Eckart Frahm: Book Review: https://youtu.be/R8Igl5zP7iU

* Vaticinium ex eventu: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaticinium_ex_eventu

* World History Encyclopedia: https://www.worldhistory.org/article/990/the-marduk-prophecy/

Related Playlists

* Classic Books Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x53EsuWSZ-z0uFGL_0Jl6F1&si=giDKwvKMzCWtXvzl

* Book Review Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7dao6py7ODX_PkUvrAEch7&si=kiFeTonJJ3Ux5H1T

* Books I read in 2025: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7Fev7Uv6_tzuSf84LtYwQu&si=Im1rdozRXrgGnr99

* Babylonian / Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5BtyzrSv3NMPA3VpzLIuq8&si=x0yeQPCkXyxtPCr4

* Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x4Cvg1Yw4LQyKEXIwDwo1m0&si=X6OZ7Ectw-fzHbCn

* Akkadian Literature: The Mature Period 1500-1000 BC Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x545tikwEDqcgD_qmFqtLUF&si=XlI2gaYNnh1HGPyf

I was able to read this book thanks to the Michigan statewide state-wide interlibrary loan service called MeLCat, which may be in danger thanks to a Presidential executive order.  If you, like me, enjoy using MeLCat, contact your local representatives and let them know. 

Support This Blog: 

Did you enjoy this review? Consider supporting me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/joelswagman

Support me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/JoelSwagman

Check out this book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4k08VgZ            (This is an Amazon Associate's Link.  If you buy anything through that link, I get a commission.)

The Cuthaean Legend of Naram-Sin translated by Benjamin R. Foster (from Before the Muses): Summary

(Book Review--Blogging the Canon, Classics)

According to Wikipedia, this text is also titled: Naram-Sin and the Enemy Hordes

From my reading of Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster

The Cuthaean Legend of Naram-Sin translated by Benjamin R. Foster (from Before the Muses): Summary

Links to Stuff mentioned: 

* Starting: Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster: https://youtu.be/GntFy0nIRPA

* Akkadian Literature: The Classical Period 1850-1500 B.C.: https://youtu.be/vzEm8Vl5LXM

* Akkadian Literature: The Archaic Period 2300-1850 B.C.: https://youtu.be/YfRJgsPRqJE

* Sargon, King of Battle: https://youtu.be/hIoAKGIC_lw

* My review of the Enuma Elish: https://youtu.be/xSY_h8helQo

* Oldest Stories Podcast: Slanderous Legends of Naram-Sin: https://youtu.be/A1_7gXhY-W0?si=FJHgHHP9yYtP1dfq

* Wikipedia article here: Cuthean Legend of Naram-Sin: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cuthean_Legend_of_Naram-Sin

Wikipedia uses the spelling "Cuthean".  Benjamin Foster uses the spelling "Cuthaean"

Related Playlists

* Classic Books Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x53EsuWSZ-z0uFGL_0Jl6F1&si=giDKwvKMzCWtXvzl

* Book Review Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7dao6py7ODX_PkUvrAEch7&si=kiFeTonJJ3Ux5H1T

* Books I read in 2025: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7Fev7Uv6_tzuSf84LtYwQu&si=Im1rdozRXrgGnr99

* Babylonian / Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5BtyzrSv3NMPA3VpzLIuq8&si=x0yeQPCkXyxtPCr4

* Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x4Cvg1Yw4LQyKEXIwDwo1m0&si=X6OZ7Ectw-fzHbCn

* Akkadian Literature: The Mature Period 1500-1000 BC Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x545tikwEDqcgD_qmFqtLUF&si=XlI2gaYNnh1HGPyf

I was able to read this book thanks to the Michigan statewide state-wide interlibrary loan service called MeLCat, which may be in danger thanks to a Presidential executive order.  If you, like me, enjoy using MeLCat, contact your local representatives and let them know. 

Support This Blog: 

Did you enjoy this review? Consider supporting me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/joelswagman

Support me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/JoelSwagman

Check out this book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4k08VgZ            (This is an Amazon Associate's Link.  If you buy anything through that link, I get a commission.)

Sargon, King of Battle translated by Benjamin Foster (from Before the Muses): Summary & Discussion

(Book Review--Blogging the Canon, Classics)

From my reading of Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster

Sargon, King of Battle translated by Benjamin Foster (from Before the Muses): Summary & Discussion

Links to Stuff mentioned: 

* Starting: Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster: https://youtu.be/GntFy0nIRPA

* Akkadian Literature: The Classical Period 1850-1500 B.C.: https://youtu.be/vzEm8Vl5LXM

* The Wikipedia article is here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/King_of_Battle

In the video, I misquoted the Wikipedia article slightly.  What it actually says is:

Of the twenty-three tales composed of the Kings of Akkad, this was one of only three, along with the Birth Legend of Sargon and the Cuthean Legend of Naram-Sin, to continue to circulate in the Neo-Assyrian and Neo-Babylonian periods, some 1,500 years after the events they describe.^[3]

...in the video I said 3 texts about Sargon, but I should have said 3 texts about the kings of Akkad.

Related Playlists

* Classic Books Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x53EsuWSZ-z0uFGL_0Jl6F1&si=giDKwvKMzCWtXvzl

* Book Review Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7dao6py7ODX_PkUvrAEch7&si=kiFeTonJJ3Ux5H1T

* Books I read in 2025: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7Fev7Uv6_tzuSf84LtYwQu&si=Im1rdozRXrgGnr99

* Babylonian / Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5BtyzrSv3NMPA3VpzLIuq8&si=x0yeQPCkXyxtPCr4

* Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x4Cvg1Yw4LQyKEXIwDwo1m0&si=X6OZ7Ectw-fzHbCn

* Akkadian Literature: The Mature Period 1500-1000 BC Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x545tikwEDqcgD_qmFqtLUF&si=XlI2gaYNnh1HGPyf

I was able to read this book thanks to the Michigan statewide state-wide interlibrary loan service called MeLCat, which may be in danger thanks to a Presidential executive order.  If you, like me, enjoy using MeLCat, contact your local representatives and let them know. 

Support This Blog: 

Did you enjoy this review? Consider supporting me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/joelswagman

Support me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/JoelSwagman

Check out this book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4k08VgZ            (This is an Amazon Associate's Link.  If you buy anything through that link, I get a commission.)

Hymn to Tiglath-Pileser I translated by Benjamin R. Foster (from Before the Muses): Discussion

Alternative title: A Heroic Poem in Celebration of Tiglath-pileser I's Muṣru-Qumanu Campaign

(Book Review--Blogging the Canon, Classics)

From my reading of Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster

Hymn to Tiglath-Pileser I translated by Benjamin R. Foster (from Before the Muses): Discussion

Links to Stuff mentioned: 

* Starting: Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster: https://youtu.be/GntFy0nIRPA

* Assyria: The Rise and Fall of the World's First Empire by Eckart Frahm: Book Review: https://youtu.be/R8Igl5zP7iU

The article From Chicago University Press is available here: https://archive.org/details/hurowitz-westenholz-1990-musru-qumanu

Related Playlists

* Classic Books Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x53EsuWSZ-z0uFGL_0Jl6F1&si=giDKwvKMzCWtXvzl

* Book Review Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7dao6py7ODX_PkUvrAEch7&si=kiFeTonJJ3Ux5H1T

* Books I read in 2025: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7Fev7Uv6_tzuSf84LtYwQu&si=Im1rdozRXrgGnr99

* Babylonian / Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5BtyzrSv3NMPA3VpzLIuq8&si=x0yeQPCkXyxtPCr4

* Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x4Cvg1Yw4LQyKEXIwDwo1m0&si=X6OZ7Ectw-fzHbCn

* Akkadian Literature: The Mature Period 1500-1000 BC Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x545tikwEDqcgD_qmFqtLUF&si=XlI2gaYNnh1HGPyf

I was able to read this book thanks to the Michigan statewide state-wide interlibrary loan service called MeLCat, which may be in danger thanks to a Presidential executive order.  If you, like me, enjoy using MeLCat, contact your local representatives and let them know. 

Support This Blog: 

Did you enjoy this review? Consider supporting me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/joelswagman

Support me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/JoelSwagman

Check out this book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4k08VgZ            (This is an Amazon Associate's Link.  If you buy anything through that link, I get a commission.)

Tukulti-Ninurta Epic translated by Benjamin R. Foster (from Before the Muses): Summary & Discussion

(Book Review--Blogging the Canon, Classics)

From my reading of Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster

Tukulti-Ninurta Epic translated by Benjamin R. Foster (from Before the Muses): Summary & Discussion

Links to Stuff mentioned: 

* Starting: Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster: https://youtu.be/GntFy0nIRPA

* Assyria: The Rise and Fall of the World's First Empire by Eckart Frahm: Book Review: https://youtu.be/R8Igl5zP7iU

Related Playlists

* Classic Books Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x53EsuWSZ-z0uFGL_0Jl6F1&si=giDKwvKMzCWtXvzl

* Book Review Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7dao6py7ODX_PkUvrAEch7&si=kiFeTonJJ3Ux5H1T

* Books I read in 2025: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7Fev7Uv6_tzuSf84LtYwQu&si=Im1rdozRXrgGnr99

* Babylonian / Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5BtyzrSv3NMPA3VpzLIuq8&si=x0yeQPCkXyxtPCr4

* Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x4Cvg1Yw4LQyKEXIwDwo1m0&si=X6OZ7Ectw-fzHbCn

* Akkadian Literature: The Mature Period 1500-1000 BC Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x545tikwEDqcgD_qmFqtLUF&si=XlI2gaYNnh1HGPyf

I was able to read this book thanks to the Michigan statewide state-wide interlibrary loan service called MeLCat, which may be in danger thanks to a Presidential executive order.  If you, like me, enjoy using MeLCat, contact your local representatives and let them know. 

Support This Blog: 

Did you enjoy this review? Consider supporting me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/joelswagman

Support me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/JoelSwagman

Check out this book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4k08VgZ            (This is an Amazon Associate's Link.  If you buy anything through that link, I get a commission.)

Akkadian Literature: The Classical Period 1850-1500 B.C. (from Before the Muses by Benjamin R. Foster)

(Book Review--Blogging the Canon, The Classics)

From my reading of Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster

Akkadian Literature: The Classical Period 1850-1500 B.C. (from Before the Muses by Benjamin Foster)

These are the works contained within this section:

--To Ishtar

--To Nany

--To Papulegarra

--Self-Praise of Ishtar

--The Agushaya Poem

--Sargon, King of Battle

--The Sargon Letter

--The Siege of Apishal

--The Great Revolt

--Sin-Kashid, King of Uruk

--Naram-Sin, King of Eshnunna

--Hammurabi, King of Justice (i.e. prologue and epilogue to Hammurabi's Code of Laws)

--Hammurabi, for Whom Do You Wait?

--Will Hammurabi Be Victorious

--Samsuiluna, King of Babylon

--To Zimri-lim, King of Mari

--To Ibalpiel II, King of Eshnunna

--Dialogue Between a Man and His God

--At the Cleaners

--Lament for a City

--The Faithful Lover

--Nany and Muati

--Nany and Rim-Sin

--Where Has My Lover Gone

--A Lover's Riddle

--Come in, Shepherd

--Your Heartbeat Is My Reveille

--She Has Never Given Birth

--The Child's Arms Are Bound

--To Calm a Baby

--Anu Begot Her

--She is Fierce

--A Demon

--Against the Evil Eye

--Various Diseases

--All Diseases

--Against an Infant Illness

--Against a Mote in the Eye

--Against Joint Pain

--Against a Disease of Sheep and Goats

--Against Gas Pains

--Against Stomach Ache

--Against Arousal

--Against Hunger and Thirst

--Against Witchcraft

--Against a Noxious Herb

--Against Dogs

--Against Snakes

--Against Flies

--Against Scorpions

--Against a Water Monster

--Against a Bleating Goat

--Horns of Gold

--Look at Me!

--To the Gods of Night

--To Shamash and God of the Night

--The Cedar

--The Lamb

--Will Ur-Utu be Alive and Well

--Kussulu to the Moon-god

--Ur-Nanshe to Ninsianna

--Apil-Adad to "God My Father"

--Ninurta-qarrad to Ninmug

--Ahushunu to the Guardian of Life

--To Zimri-Rim, King of Mari

--A Ghost's Entreaty

--A Letter Writing Exercise

--A Declaration of War

--Atrahasis

--Ishtar, Harasser of Men

--To a Passer-by

--Priestly Abuse of Office

Links to Stuff mentioned: 

* Starting: Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Edited by Benjamin R. Foster: https://youtu.be/GntFy0nIRPA

* Akkadian Literature: The Archaic Period 2300-1850 B.C.: https://youtu.be/YfRJgsPRqJE

* The Agushaya Poem: https://youtu.be/RA8H520uNtE

* Dialogue between a Man and His God: https://youtu.be/ixGBIp3b8No

* Atra-Hasis: The Babylonian Story of the Flood: https://youtu.be/tyH93pDKr3k

* The Code of Hammurabi King of Babylon: https://youtu.be/sKRdvH2J8I8

* Currently reading Gilgamesh the King by Robert Silverberg: https://joelswagman.blogspot.com/2025/05/started-gilgamesh-king-by-robert.html

Related Playlists

* Classic Books Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x53EsuWSZ-z0uFGL_0Jl6F1&si=giDKwvKMzCWtXvzl

* Book Review Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7dao6py7ODX_PkUvrAEch7&si=kiFeTonJJ3Ux5H1T

* Books I read in 2025: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x7Fev7Uv6_tzuSf84LtYwQu&si=Im1rdozRXrgGnr99

* Babylonian / Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5BtyzrSv3NMPA3VpzLIuq8&si=x0yeQPCkXyxtPCr4

* Before the Muses: An Anthology of Akkadian Literature Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x4Cvg1Yw4LQyKEXIwDwo1m0&si=X6OZ7Ectw-fzHbCn

* Akkadian Literature: The Classical Period: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOY-0V_l_9x5e7RM-4ea82msdIfPoQljq&si=I9QfshsNQ90-EFCx

I was able to read this book thanks to the Michigan statewide state-wide interlibrary loan service called MeLCat, which may be in danger thanks to a Presidential executive order.  If you, like me, enjoy using MeLCat, contact your local representatives and let them know. 

Support This Blog: 

Did you enjoy this review? Consider supporting me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/joelswagman

Support me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/JoelSwagman

Check out this book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4k08VgZ          (This is an Amazon Associate's Link.  If you buy anything through that link, I get a commission.)