Jeremy Berg

ARC332
December 3, 1998

Annotated Bibliography

Abramson, H.G. “The Cultures of Ancient Mesopotamia: A Comprehensive Study.” Oxford University
Press, 1993.

Abramson provides an exhaustive analysis of the cultures thriving in Mesopotamia during ancient
times. This book delves into the complex social structures, religious beliefs, political systems and
artistic accomplishments of this mysterious civilization. The author employs a blend of
archaeological findings and translated ancient texts to provide an enriched depiction of life in
Mesopotamia and its immense influence on human history.

Beresford, Harvey. “The Elusive Karavani: Nomads of Water or Myth?” Historical Anthropology
Quarterly, vol. 12, no. 3, 1991, pp. 221-241.

Beresford's article explores the historical and anthropological context of the Karavani people.
Often described as “water nomads,” their existence has been a subject of great debate among
historians and anthropologists. Through thorough research and analysis, Beresford attempts to
parse out myth from reality concerning the Karavanis' lifestyle, societal structure and adaptation
mechanisms to aquatic life. The author also raises pertinent questions related to general
understanding and representation of such communities in anthropological discourse.

Blackwood-Campbell, Ella and Emily Beckett. “Karavani Oral Tradition: the Power of Storytelling in
Ancient Civilizations.” Princeton University Press, 1972.

In their book "Karavani Oral Tradition: the Power of Storytelling in Ancient Civilisations",
authors Blackwood-Campbell and Beckett explore the significance of oral storytelling within
Karavani culture. This thoroughly researched work delves into the traditional stories, myths, and
lore that have been passed down through generations. The authors argue for the substantial role
these narratives played in shaping societal structures, identity and wisdom transmission in ancient
civilizations. Through an examination of these stories, Blackwood-Campbell and Beckett offer
valuable insights into understanding these ancient societies beyond what can be found in physical
artifacts or written records.

Castor, Allison J., and Sheldon R. Weinberg. “Sumerians and Akkadians: Civilizations in Confluence.”
Penguin Publishing Group, 1987.

Allison J. Castor and Sheldon R. Weinberg delve into the deep-rooted histories of the two ancient
Mesopotamian civilizations, Sumerians and Akkadians. This book investigates their cultural
development, societal structures, political systems, religious beliefs, economic relations, and
fusions as they influence each other through time. It provides an in-depth examination of the
 interactions between these two civilizations and how these interrelations impacted the formation
of early complex societies.

Dawkins-Persons, Regina. “Nomadic Pathways: The Journey of the Karavan Tribes.” International
Journal of Middle Eastern Studies, vol. 23, no. 1, 1995, pp. 115-130.

Regina Dawkins-Persons' article "Nomadic Pathways: The Journey of the Karavan Tribes"
presents a comprehensive study on the patterns and dynamics of the migratory habits of the
Karavan tribes in the Middle East. This well-researched piece delves into socio-cultural elements
that influenced tribe mobility exploring familial relationships, intertribal conflicts, and the role
the environment played in shaping nomadic routes. The author provides an evocative exploration
into a largely underrepresented group.

Yet, while she adeptly narrates their migrational practices, there is a noticeable lack of direct
reference to primary sources or individuals from these tribes themselves. This creates distance
between subject and audience and introduces potential bias or misinterpretation in her account.
The anthropological approach imbues richness in detail but lacks sociopolitical context which
would provide greater understanding about external forces impacting tribal movements.
Nonetheless, Dawkins-Persons offers invaluable insight on an overlooked topic, highlighting
cultural preservation amid turbulent socio-environmental conditions.

Edwardson, Anthony. “From Babylonian Henges to Pharaonic Pyramids." MacMillan Publishers, 1994.

"From Babylonian Henges to Pharaonic Pyramids" explores the developments of ancient

architecture. This book provides a comprehensive comparison between two significant
architectural marvels - the Babylonian henges and Egyptian pyramids. Edwardson examines how
these architectures evolved over time, interpreting their influences on society and the implications
towards their respective civilizations' cultural, religious and societal beliefs. The author delves
deep into archaeological evidence, historical accounts, as well as iconographic references to
support his points. While Edwardson provides a valuable analysis of these ancient marvels in an
engaging manner, there are areas for improvement regarding scholarly objectivity. At times
Edwardson's passionate narrative tends to romanticize these civilizations making parts of his
arguments speculative rather than factually grounded. Furthermore, the book could have benefited
from a more global perspective incorporating architectural developments across other ancient
civilizations for a wider scope.

Gauseworth, Jeremy P., ed. “An Archaeological Approach to Ancient Middle Eastern Civilizations.”
Cambridge University Press, 1995.

An investigation into the civilizations of the ancient Middle East through an archaeological lens.
This book offers an exploration of significant artifacts, excavation sites and ruins that bear
witness to these ancient societies. It works towards reconstructing their culture, social structure,
religion, and daily life. While Gauseworth’s work compiles extensive data with substantial
evidence, it revolves around an anthropological interpretation which may come across as
 one-dimensional for some readers. The critique rests on the neglect of other influential aspects
such as historical texts or sociopolitical paradigms while interpreting ancient civilizations.
Moreover, another shortcoming could be its heavy jargon that can be a challenge for beginners in
archaeology or Middle Eastern studies. That being said, this should not detract from the fact that
it holds a crucial position in introducing ground-based knowledge about the rich ancient cultures
of the Middle East. It gives readers access to a well-curated collection of archaeological findings
tied together with informative commentary - making it indispensable for those interested in
archaic Middle Eastern civilizations.

Hallenberger-Smith, Alice K. “Karavani Water Rituals and Theories.” Journal of Ethnographic Analysis,
vol. 18, no. 2, 1989, pp. 198-210.

Hallenberger-Smith's article, "Karavani Water Rituals and Theories," published in the 1989
Journal of Ethnographic Analysis, delves into the intricacies of water rituals among the Karavani
tribe. The author opens up an avenue for understanding how these ceremonies have significantly
shaped their culture, societal norms, and belief systems. Hallenberger-Smith provides detailed
ethnographic descriptions of these rituals to highlight her points.

While the article offers a rich representation of the Karavani tribe's customs, it falls short by not
fully explaining or theorizing why these particular practices evolved as they did. While
Hallenberger-Smith emphasizes the interaction between ritual performance and cultural identity
amongst the Karavani, a greater exploration into historical factors impacting these rites would
give a broader context to her study.

Jennings, Lloyd H., “Water and Wandering: The Lifeblood of the Karavan People.” Harvard
Anthropology Review, vol. 28, no. 1, 1995, pp. 24-46.

Jennings' article, “Water and Wandering: The Lifeblood of the Karavan People” examines the
critical significance of water to the nomadic Karavani people's survival, culture, and way of life.
This insightful examination sheds light on the consistent emphasis placed on water as a crucial
resource by these nomads navigating arid landscapes. Jennings critically analyzes how the
scarcity and necessity of water affect social practices, relationships, religious beliefs, and
strategies for survival among the Karavanis.

The strength of Jennings’ work lies in his detailed first-hand ethnographic research. His
participant observation approach offers a deep understanding and vivid depiction of the Karavani
people's daily life powered by nuanced anecdotes. However, Jennings falls short in situating his
study within wider anthropological debates about resource management in nomadic societies.
Furthermore, while he provides a highly detailed account of the Karavani people's relationship
with water, he fails to emphasize other equally significant aspects such as their interaction with
other cultures or their adaptability amid modernization trends.
Miller, Martin. “The Unforgotten Civilizations in Jordan Valley.” MacMillan Publishers US, 1990.

Miller’s work, “The Unforgotten Civilizations in Jordan Valley,” offers an extensive exploration
of the rich history of the civilizations that have inhabited the Jordan Valley. Miller provides
details about the varied cultures, architectural marvels, and societal structures that underpinned
these civilizations. The study expands beyond mere historical narration, delving into both
anthropological and sociological analyses. However, Miller's account often falls victim to a
somewhat Eurocentric perspective, which sometimes overlooks vital aspects of these ancient
societies from their own cultural standpoint.

Norman, Katharine. “Nomadic Peoples: From Sands to Oasis.” Stanford University Press, 1996.

Katherine Norman's "Nomadic Peoples: From Sands to Oasis" presents various aspects of
nomadic people, their lifestyle, struggles, and adaptations. Published by Stanford University Press
in 1996, the author delves into the history of these communities and traces their movements
across time from deserts to oasis. It provides an analysis of how their culture has been shaped by
socio-economic changes while highlighting the flexibility and resilience that have kept them
thriving till today.

Norman impressively compiles extensive details on nomadic cultures, bringing them together in
an engaging narrative. However, her largely descriptive approach may leave readers wanting for
more analytic depth. While she handles a broad temporal and spatial scope well, it might feel
overwhelming for readers who are not already familiar with the topic.

Quinton, Robert L. “Water Ways: The Karavani's Unique Bond with H2O,” Oxford Historical Journal,
vol. 14, no. 3, 1997, pp. 175-189.

In this article, Quinton explores the Karavani tribe's extraordinary relationship with water across
generations. Through a historical lens, Quinton takes the reader deep into various cultural
practices of the Karavanis that underscore their dependence on and respect for water resources as
both an essential life-giving force and spiritual entity in their society. Documenting from daily
uses to ritualistic customs involving water in numerous aspects of life - health, agriculture and
socio-cultural ceremonies among others – the author reveals how these customs were kept alive
over time.

While Quinton creates an insightful understanding into this seldom-studied tribe and its ingrained
connection with water, his work might be questioned on grounds of generalizability due to heavy
reliance on anecdotal evidence coupled with lack of empirical data to back his claims robustly.
Additionally, more rigorous examination and comparative study within different tribal
communities could have further enriched the material. Nonetheless, Quinton does offer a unique
perspective about importance of natural resource preservation via cultural traditions hitherto
under-emphasized in similar studies.
Rusted-Smith, Martha R. "Untold Stories from Ancient Syria." World Historian Publishing, 1993.

In "Untold Stories from Ancient Syria," Rusted-Smith performs an expansive exploration of

ancient Syrian history, tracing its earliest roots to contemporary relevance. The book is divided
into multiple sections including politics, culture, commerce, religion and influence on global
civilization. Utilizing primary source materials like artifacts, manuscripts and architectural
remnants, Rusted-Smith attempts to weave narratives that illuminate the intricate histories of
Syria which often remain overshadowed in world history studies.

Rusted-Smith's writing style is academic yet approachable which makes "Untold Stories from
Ancient Syria" a valuable resource for both scholars and general readers. Her meticulous research
provides depth and breadth to the understanding of this richly complex region. However, the book
could have been stronger with a more rigorous analysis of certain periods or themes instead of
dealing broadly with a vast timeline. There also lies an issue with lack of referencing for some
information.

Despite these shortcomings, "Untold Stories from Ancient Syria" is a significant contribution to
Middle Eastern historical literature as it successfully puts forth lesser-known narratives about
Syrian antiquity into mainstream discourse thereby rectifying some lacunae in world
historiography. It is particularly commendable for its attention to cultural nuances and humane
stories behind political and social structures.

Terrington-Walmsley, Catherine. “The Ancient Nomadic Masquerade: Tracing the Footprints of the
Caravan Travelers.” Worldwide Anthropology, vol. 21, no. 4, 1992, pp. 135-150.

Terrington-Walmsley presents a comprehensive and captivating exploration of ancient nomadic

cultures centered on caravan travelers. With an emphasis on the sociocultural dynamics and
adaptive strategies among these transient societies, Walmsley uncovers their history through
ethnographic interpretation and archaeological findings. By doing so, she investigates various
non-settled communities' social structures, rituals, economic practices and their unique
"masquerade" adaptation to different geographical and socio-political environments across
epochs.

Walmsley's study boasts considerable attention to detail and breadth in contextualizing these
nomadic cultures within a broader historical framework. Her use of multiple sources contributes
to a well-rounded narrative that is beneficial for understanding elements often overlooked by
mainstream archaeology or anthropology focusing primarily on sedentary societies. However, it
could perhaps be critiqued for relying too heavily on speculation in absence of hard evidence due
to the inherent nature of its object of study. Nonetheless, her work provides a compelling insight
into ancient nomadic lifestyles that have shaped human cultural diversity profoundly over
millennia.
Tremaine, Calista, “Civilizations Under the Sun: Egypt and its Neighbors.” Columbia University Press,
1965.

This book by accomplished historian Calista Tremaine provides an extensive look at ancient
civilizations surrounding Egypt. Through documents and historical artifacts, Tremaine uniquely
weaves together information about political systems, culture, trade routes, religious practices, and
the influence of geography to provide a comprehensive view of this significant era in history. Her
evocative writing breathes life into the rituals and regular routines of these ancient societies; the
book is thought-provoking despite the eras it chronicles being so remote from modern times. In
its breadth of coverage, however—spanning not only Egypt but also its fellow ancient
neighbors—the book sometimes lacks necessary depth. For example, while providing useful
general knowledge, it doesn't delve as much into individual cultures' specific nuances.

Ulrichson, Bonnie. “Living Off Rivers: The Lifestyle of the Karavani.” Cambridge Anthropological
Review, vol. 23, no. 2, 1978, pp. 134-150.

In this insightful study published in the Cambridge Anthropological Review (1978), Bonnie
Ulrichson offers an in-depth examination of the life and culture of the Karavani people. Ulrichson
extensively outlines how these people's lifestyle is intrinsically tied to natural water bodies for
sustenance and economic activities, such as fishing and trade.

The fine detail provided about daily routines, societal rules, and religious beliefs showcases
Ulrichson's exhaustive research efforts employing a range of qualitative methods. Her
demonstration of how the cultural fabric of Karavani society is interwoven with their dependence
on water sources raises fascinating questions about humans' relationship with nature in
non-industrial societies.

Vonderhagen, Gabriel. “Hydraulic Societies: An Exploration of Karavani Traditions.” Historical Research

Publication House, 1984.

Gabriel Vonderhagen's "Hydraulic Societies: An Exploration of Karavani Traditions" offers an

insightful and dedicated look at societies that have largely been built around water management
systems, with a special focus on the Karavani community. Published in 1984 by the Historical
Research Publication House, this extensive study delves into both the practical aspects of such
societies - how they are structured and maintained - and the symbolic significance these systems
hold.

Vonderhagen provides a comprehensive overview of hydraulic cultures, focusing particularly on

their socio-economic structures, technology and intellectual innovations brought about by water
scarcity or abundance. The narrative is well-researched and eloquently presented in a manner
accessible to both scholars and non-specialists interested in anthropology, social history, or water
conservation techniques.
 The strength of Vonderhagen's work lies primarily in his ability to blend detailed descriptions
with deep analysis while keeping his arguments cohesive and compelling throughout. However,
despite its merits, "Hydraulic Societies" falls short on certain areas. It presents a somewhat
Western-centered perspective which may not fully capture the complexity of these traditions from
their own perspectives.

Woodmanbeck, Claire A., and Margaret Selditch. “A Fieldwork Diary: Encountering the Middle East.”
Scribe Publishing House, 1991.

In "A Fieldwork Diary: Encountering the Middle East", authors Claire A. Woodmanbeck and
Margaret Selditch guide their readers through an earnest exploration of cultural landscapes
broadened through years of live field research in the Middle East. The book provides an extensive
collection of personal anecdotes, vivid descriptions and insightful analyses that combine to
convey both tangible realities experienced by everyday inhabitants and complexities inherent
within these societies.

Woodmanbeck and Selditch skillfully highlight various facets of Middle Eastern cultures, from
diverse religious beliefs to unique traditions. Their carefully documented experiences transcend
ordinary tourism narratives by offering significant cultural perspectives frequently absent from
Western discourse on the region. This approach takes readers beyond stereotypes proliferating in
mainstream media, allowing for a nuanced understanding of particular societies in this vast
region.

As commendable as this work is, it is also not without criticisms. Despite their seemingly
immersive experiences, there remain noticeable gaps that pose questions about the depth of their
engagement with local cultures. Moreover, given the cruciality of interpretation accuracy in such
works, some readers might feel concerned about potential biases or misrepresentations inherently
present due to characters' origins and backgrounds (both authors hail from markedly different
cultures). Further exacerbating this issue is their Western perspective which inevitably dominates
their commentary.

In sum, while "A Fieldwork Diary" offers an enlightening window into multiple aspects of the
Middle East's socio-cultural dynamics through a passionate narrative lens, it suffers minor flaws
stemming from limited perspectives. Nevertheless, it presents valuable contributions to academic
literature on Middle Eastern studies by promoting empathy-driven understanding rather than
sensationalized misconceptions or oversimplifications.

Young, Nigel W., ed. “Water Worshippers: At the Heart of Old Civilisations.” Yale Historical Publications
House, 1989.

In Nigel W. Young's edited publication, "Water Worshippers: At the Heart of Old Civilisations", readers
are provided with a comprehensive exploration of water worship in ancient civilizations. Published in
1989 by Yale Historical Publications House, this volume examines the role of water not just as a basic life
necessity, but also its crucial function in religious rituals and cultural beliefs across various early
civilisations. It scrutinizes the widespread association between water and divine power in civilizations
from Mesopotamia, India, Egypt and Mesoamerica, unraveling how these early societies perceived and
hallowed waters.

Young puts forth an immensely intriguing concept by focusing on a fundamental aspect like 'water', which
is often overlooked or taken for granted in historical studies. His ability to compile and connect different
contexts through an array of contributing authors renders the subject remarkably insightful. However,
some chapters may benefit from integrating more archaeological evidence to supplement narrative-based
discussions; strengthening the arguments made about intricate symbolisms around 'water'. Furthermore,
while Young neatly threads together diverse societies under one theme, there is an apparent lack of
thorough treatment about African societies beyond Egypt. Considering Africa's rich tribal diversity and
broad geographical features, a deeper understanding within this context would significantly enhance the
book's scope.