Overview
This lecture discusses the Law Code Stele of King Hammurabi, its design, historical significance, and what it reveals about Babylonian society and ancient law.
Description of the Stele
- The Law Code Stele of Hammurabi is a tall carved object from the Babylonian Kingdom (modern Iraq), nearly 4,000 years old.
- The top of the stele features a relief carving, with inscribed cuneiform script covering the rest.
Visual and Artistic Features
- The relief shows King Hammurabi (smaller figure) facing the sun god Shamash, who is identified by his horned crown and radiating light.
- Shamash sits on a throne above mountains and hands Hammurabi symbols of power—a scepter and a ring.
- The artistic style uses a composite view: frontal shoulders, profile face.
Structure and Content of the Text
- The text is written in Akkadian language using cuneiform script.
- The inscription is divided into three parts: prologue, law code, and epilogue.
- The prologue describes Hammurabi receiving authority from the god.
- The law code contains over 300 specific laws, often formatted as "if X, then Y".
Purpose and Historical Significance
- Laws record legal precedents, not just royal decrees, listing actions and consequences.
- Many laws address agriculture, family life, and societal tensions.
- The code demonstrates the advanced nature of Mesopotamian civilization and its reliance on established laws.
- The epilogue asserts Hammurabi's legacy and the importance of law for future generations.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Stele — an upright stone slab used for inscribed records or reliefs.
- Cuneiform — wedge-shaped script used in ancient Mesopotamia.
- Akkadian — the court language of Babylon and medium for official decrees.
- Shamash — Babylonian sun god and god of justice.
- Legal Precedent — a previous ruling or judgment used as a basis for future decisions.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the visual elements of the stele and recognize cuneiform and Akkadian.
- Read more about the role of law in ancient Mesopotamian society.