Writing and Society in Mesopotamia

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to writing and society in ancient Mesopotamia.

Cuneiform

An ancient writing system developed by the Sumerians, made up of wedge-shaped marks on clay tablets.

Scribe

A person who writes or copies documents, especially in ancient societies.

Uruk

An ancient city in Mesopotamia, believed to be one of the world's first major cities.

Tablet

A flat piece of clay, stone, or wood used for writing or inscription.

Literacy

The ability to read and write, which was limited among Mesopotamians due to the complexity of cuneiform.

Mesopotamia

An ancient region located between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, known as the cradle of civilization.

Epic poem

A lengthy narrative poem, typically detailing heroic deeds and events significant to a culture.

Trade Center

A place where goods are exchanged; Mari was an important trade center in ancient Mesopotamia.

Multiculturalism

The presence of multiple cultural or ethnic groups within a society, evident in Mesopotamian society.

Inheritance

The practice of passing on property, titles, debts, rights, and obligations upon the death of an individual.