Developments in the Levant and North Africa

The Punic Empire across the Mediterranean in North Africa lasted from 824 BCE through 146 BCE when it finally fell to Rome. The Empire lasted in peace as it was a center of trade and relied on diplomacy in all its dealings ... until the Punic Wars. The slides below are of the Punic town of Kerkouane (Kerkuane) which was abandoned during the first Punic War in 250 BCE and was never rebuilt by the Romans. Of interest are the baths, particularly the baths made for one person that resemble those made for less able people today.

Meanwhile, across the Mediterranean, people were developing their own ways and thinking, leading to the monotheistic cultures of Judaism then Christianity and then Islam.

In order to understand the multitude of references in Western art, music and literature, one needs to have at least a passing understanding of the Old Testament (see three links below) and the New Testament.