Civilizations of the Ancient World offers a uniquely visual approach to exploring the cultures of the key civilizations of ancient times. By combining historic engravings with a modern commentary that is at once authoritative and accessible, it creates both a visual celebration and invaluable reference for all students of early history. The main section of the book focuses on ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Rome and Greece, offering a detailed exposition of each in turn through thematic spreads depicting many aspects of their cultures. Government, society, war, religion, work, leisure, shelter, food, costume and daily life are all unveiled in vivid detail through carefully designed compositions of both coloured and monotone engravings. A second section features timelines, maps and overviews of the other key civilizations that were flourishing throughout the world at that time. Thus the reader is offered both a close-up view of the four major peoples who hold an endless fascination for modern readers, plus a broader panorama of the global cultures that shaped the ancient world.