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Ancient Greek Literature
Greek literature has influenced not only its Roman neighbors to the west but also countless generations across the European continent. Greek writers are responsible for the introduction of such genres as poetry, tragedy, comedy, and western...

Definition
Malcolm III of Scotland
Malcolm III of Scotland (aka Máel Coluim mac Donnchada) reigned as king from 1058 to 1093 CE. He took the throne after his young predecessor Lulach (r. 1057-1058 CE), the stepson of Macbeth, king of Scotland (r. 1040-1057 CE), was killed...

Image Gallery
A Gallery of 30 Influential Women from the Middle Ages
In this gallery, we showcase images of 30 influential women from the Middle Ages. Usually dated from c. 500 to c. 1500, this was a complex and transformative period in European history filled with political turmoil and dynamic social and...

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Detail of Sutton Hoo's Anastasius Platter
This Byzantine silver platter is one of the largest to survive from the Byzantine Period. It measures almost 72 centimeters across and weighs 6.5 kilograms. The back is stamped with the control marks of Emperor Anastasius I, who reigned in...

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Pottery Bottle from Sutton Hoo
This bottle is the only piece of pottery from the Sutton Hoo ship-burial. It was made on a wheel, like Frankish pottery; early Anglo-Saxon pottery was typically handmade. Unglazed and therefore porous, it was only suitable for viscous liquids...

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Partially Reconstructed Shield from Sutton Hoo
This is the most elaborate shield to survive from Anglo-Saxon England. The metal rim and gilded copper alloy, gold and garnet fittings are unusual. The central iron boss protected the user's hand, while mounts depicting a bird of prey and...

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Silver Bowl From Sutton Hoo
This shallow silver bowl is from a set of ten that were stacked upside-down inside the Suton Hoo burial chamber. They were made in the Eastern Mediterranean, possibly for religious use; their cross-shaped design may have had a Christian meaning...

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Basalt Lion of Babylon (Statue)
The Lion of Babylon (أسد بابل), a stone sculpture found in the ancient city of Babylon, modern-day Iraq in 1876. It may have been built by either Nebuchadnezzar II (605-562 BCE) or the Hittites (notice the absence of "eagle's wings"). Photograph...

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Gold Buckle and Strap Fittings from Sutton Hoo
These strap fittings come from the leather belts or harness that held the purse and sword at the dead man's waist. They are made of gold and most are decorated with cloisonne garnets. The triangle fitting resembles a stylized animal mask...

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Hanging Bowl from Sutton Hoo
This unusual medium-sized hanging bowl (made of copper-alloy) displays a curious mix of styles and techniques. The enamelled disc seen on the base is typically Celtic, while the open-work ring surrounding it is inlaid with stamped foil that...