On Monday 28 October 2024, Prof. Anthony Frendo, Senior Fellow from the Department of Middle Eastern and Asian Languages and Cultures and the Department of Classics and Archaeology within the Faculty of Arts, presented his latest publication to UM Rector, Prof. Alfred J. Vella.
Titled How to Read Ancient Texts: With a Focus on Select Phoenician Inscriptions from Malta, the Open Access publication consists of eight chapters filled with invaluable insights into selected Phoenician texts.
The book emphasises the significance of context—textual, archaeological, and Mediterranean—while addressing the challenges posed by the absence of word division and punctuation in these inscriptions. Through detailed analysis, it reveals insights into Phoenician culture, and highlights the connections between the Phoenicians in Malta and Egypt.
Prof. Vella called this work “a significant contribution to our understanding of ancient inscriptions”, “enhancing not just academic resources but also reflecting the rich tapestry of our Mediterranean heritage”.
Prof. Frendo himself spoke about the significance of the Phoenician era itself, both culturally and historically.
“During this time, which dates back to around 800 BC, the Phoenicians established trade routes and colonies throughout the Mediterranean, including Malta. This interaction facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural practices, profoundly influencing Malta's development.”
The book can be downloaded .
