Siegfried J. Schwantes

This book is a bit dated as it was written in the 1960s. Nonetheless it is a good introduction into the history of the ancient Near East. Coming from an Evangelical publisher like Baker, it has a definite Christian perspective. At the same time, it does not have a "rah-rah Christian" tone. Schwantes is very balanced in his approach to the cultures of the region and time. If anything, he seems to downplay the role of the Hebrews in the book. He writes, "Politically speaking Israel played a minor role in the history of the ancient Near East." A solid, but not overly detailed history that is worthy of consideration of those looking for an introduction into its subject.… (altro)