What Is Civilazation Essay Example

the video "TimeLife: The Lost Civilizations - Mesopotamia". According to the video, upon their demise, queens were lavished with gold and during their lifetime, they enjoyed benefits that most other women lacked due to their diminished social status. Another prominent group within society were the priests who held substantial influence over not only religious affairs but also areas such as economy, land management, workforce employment, and long-distance commerce (Civilization of Mesopotamia).

No matter the position - be it a king, a spiritual guide, an accomplished warrior, or a government representative - leadership is critical for maintaining social equilibrium and preventing chaos. Without those in authority, disputes may intensify into uncontrolled hostility because of gaps in regulation or accountability, possibly leading to total anarchy. Additionally, language plays a significant role within any group as it enables communication and shared comprehension of history among its constituents. In the words of Durant, having a common language is crucial as it serves as the medium for intellectual dialogue.

During the era of Mesopotamia, "Cuneiform" was the principal means of communication for the Sumerians. This distinctive method, identified by its square shape, was a pictorial writing system. The Sumerians etched images of diverse items onto clay tablets that were subsequently sun-dried. The interpretation of these emblems frequently relied on their setting; for instance, in Mesopotamian tradition, a star could symbolize heaven, sky or God. Eventually, they transitioned from this image-based mode of conveying messages to using signs stamped with this wedge-shaped script.

Durant articulates in his piece that "writing intertwines the generations, passing on the stories from the deceased to the younger generation; similarly, print, trade and

numerous forms of communication may interweave various cultures together." This suggests the crucial role writing plays in forming a civilization as it strengthens the social fabric through communication. Even as future generations may alter the manner of writing, its primary function to enlighten the community and keep their heritage vibrant remains constant.