An Analysis of the Gods and Heroes in Ancient Mesopotamian Art

Abstract

Mesopotamia, the region between the Euphrates and Tigris rivers, was home to many civilizations such as Sumer-Akkadian, Babylonia, and Assyria. Mesopotamian culture is based on a common religious view and consists of theocratic states ruled first by priest-kings. Mesopotamia is one of the crucial geographies where history is illuminated by art. This art reflects the feelings and thoughts of people and provides important clues about their world. The Sumerians' invention of writing was a significant development, but other developments and innovations in Mesopotamia also affected ancient societies such as the Middle East and Anatolia. Art is at the forefront of these developments and innovations. Centers such as Göbeklitepe, Kuruçay, Nevali Çori, Çayönü, Hacılar, and Eriha-Jericho contain early examples of this art. Works of art such as the Vultures Stele, Ur Standard, Uruk Warka Vase, Naram-Sin Victory Stele, and Lion Hunt Stele are essential examples for our subject with their depictions of gods, kings, and heroes. This visual art of Mesopotamia is essential for the history of the Ancient Age as it provides information that thousands of written documents cannot convey. In Mesopotamian art, where gods and heroes (kings) are seen from the Neolithic Age to the Early Bronze Age, the concepts of gods and kings occupy a central place in art. However, it is also evident that these depictions developed and changed over time. Looking at these depictions, it is understood that while gods represent the spirit world and beliefs, heroes (king or emperor) symbolize earthly power. In these works of art, heroes are usually depicted as hunters, warriors, or kings. This heroism, which extends to the claim of god or godhood, reflects new administrative powers, economic prosperity, and military development.