Overview
This lecture covers the power and propaganda of the Assyrian Empire, focusing on its art, architectural reliefs, and their impact on both ancient and modern audiences.
The Assyrian Empire
- The Assyrian Empire was the largest empire of the ancient world, centered in ancient Iraq, including parts of Syria, Turkey, and Iran.
- Its peak period was between 900-600 BC.
- Assyrian kings emphasized their power and dominance through art and architecture.
Assyrian Palaces and Reliefs
- Assyrian palaces featured up to six miles of walls decorated with reliefs depicting the king’s military conquests.
- The purpose of the reliefs was to intimidate visitors and reinforce the king's authority.
- Reliefs were partly colored with bright blue, yellow, and red tones.
- The three-dimensional quality of the reliefs and torchlit interiors made scenes feel vivid and realistic.
Imagery and Propaganda
- Reliefs showed graphic scenes of Assyrian military victories, including slaughter and humiliation of enemies.
- In the reliefs, Assyrians always win and their enemies are depicted as defeated.
- Some scenes depicted defeated enemy rulers serving the Assyrian king and queen, a severe humiliation.
- The art was created for propaganda, expressing the king's absolute power.
Continuing Influence
- The themes of power and propaganda in Assyrian art continue to resonate today.
- Modern figures like Saddam Hussein saw themselves as heirs to Assyrian and Babylonian rulers.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Relief — a sculptural technique where the sculpted elements remain attached to a solid background.
- Propaganda — information or art created to promote a particular political cause or point of view.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review images of Assyrian reliefs to better understand their style and message.
- Read about King Ashurbanipal and his significance in Assyrian history.