- Integrates the most up-to-date research, and includes a richer selection of supplementary materials
- Addresses the wide variety of political, social, and cultural developments in the ancient Near East
- Updated features include new “Key Debate” boxes at the end of each chapter to engage students with various perspectives on a range of critical issues; a comprehensive timeline of events; and 46 new illustrations, including 12 color photos
- Features a new chapter addressing governance and continuity in the region during the Persian Empire
- Offers in-depth, accessible discussions of key texts and sources, including the Bible and the Epic of Gilgamesh