Susanne Paulus | Debts, Crime, and Prison: Daily Life in Babylonia CA. 1200 BC

Presented by Susanne Paulus, Assistant Professor of Assyriology, University of Chicago When history is considered, it is often restricted to the actions of outstanding individuals or entities: gods, kings, and heroes. The struggles of normal people are usually neglected. Using the rich document corpus of clay tablets found in the excavations of the Babylonian cities of Ur and Nippur, this talk allows a glimpse into the daily life of the middle and lower class around 1200 BC. Special focus on problems still well-known today include family trouble and indebtedness. Our lectures are free and available to the public thanks to the generous support of our members. To become a member, please visit: