The Hittites by O. R. Gurney (Vintage 1962 Edition)

“The Hittites” is a historical book written by O. R. Gurney, first published in 1952. The book is a comprehensive and authoritative account of the history and culture of the Hittite civilization, one of the great powers of the ancient world.

The Hittites were an Indo-European people who lived in central Anatolia (modern-day Turkey) from the 18th to the 12th century BCE. They created a powerful and sophisticated civilization that rivaled the Egyptians and the Babylonians. The Hittites were known for their advanced military tactics, their use of iron weaponry, and their impressive architectural and artistic achievements.

In “The Hittites”, Gurney provides a detailed account of the Hittite civilization, its political and economic structures, its religion and mythology, and its cultural and artistic achievements. He also explores the Hittite’s relationships with their neighbors, including the Egyptians and the Assyrians, and the impact of their civilization on the wider ancient world.

The book draws on a wide range of sources, including archaeological findings, historical records, and Hittite texts written in cuneiform script. Gurney’s writing is clear and engaging, and he provides a rich and detailed picture of the Hittite civilization that is accessible to both scholars and general readers.

Overall, “The Hittites” is a valuable resource for anyone interested in ancient history and civilizations, and it remains one of the most authoritative and comprehensive accounts of the Hittite civilization to date.