Carthaginian (Qart-ḥadašt)
814 BCE - 146 BCE
Carthage, a powerful ancient civilization, was situated in North Africa, in present-day Tunisia. Established around the 9th century BCE by Phoenician settlers, it flourished as a maritime power and a significant trading hub in the Mediterranean.
Culture
Major language groups and dialects
Carthaginians spoke a Punic dialect, a derivative of the Phoenician language, which was part of the Semitic language family.
Culture and cultural heritage
Carthage was renowned for its maritime prowess, trade networks, religious practices, and its conflicts with ancient Rome, notably the Punic Wars.
Shared customary codes and values
The Carthaginians likely placed importance on trade, economic prosperity, religious practices, and loyalty to their city-state. Devotion to deities and religious rituals played a significant role in their society.
Common Etiquette rules
Respect for elders, adherence to religious customs, and potentially hierarchical societal norms might have been prevalent.
Common Dress code
Ancient Carthaginian attire likely consisted of draped garments made from various fabrics, with jewelry and adornments indicating social status and roles.
Art & Architecture
Limited remnants of Carthaginian art and architecture remain due to extensive destruction. However, they were known for their metalwork, pottery, and maritime-themed motifs in art.
Foods & Cuisine
Diet likely comprised grains, vegetables, fruits, seafood, and meats. Carthage's status as a trading center likely influenced their culinary practices, incorporating diverse ingredients from various regions.
Common Customs, traditions and rituals
Carthaginian religious practices involved sacrifices to gods like Ba'al Hammon, Tanit, and Melqart. Rituals, festivals, and offerings were significant aspects of their culture.
Coming of Age Rites
Specific ceremonies or rituals marking the transition to adulthood or acknowledging societal roles during adulthood might have existed, but detailed records are scarce.
Funerary and Memorial customs
Burial customs varied but likely involved rituals, grave goods, and commemoration of the deceased. However, specific details are limited.
Common Taboos
Violating religious customs or societal norms might have been considered taboo, but specifics are not extensively recorded.
Common Myths and Legends
Carthaginian mythology incorporated deities and legends from Phoenician traditions, with gods like Ba'al and Tanit, though detailed myths and stories might not be extensively documented.
Historical figures
Figures like Hannibal Barca, known for his military prowess during the Punic Wars, and other Carthaginian leaders and generals left their mark on history.
Ideals
Beauty Ideals
Specific beauty ideals in Carthage are not extensively documented. However, adornments like jewelry, elaborate clothing, and grooming likely held significance, reflecting social status and wealth.
Gender Ideals
While detailed information about gender roles in Carthaginian society is limited, women might have held certain rights compared to some contemporaneous cultures, potentially participating in trade and economic activities.
Courtship Ideals
Marriages might have been influenced by social and economic considerations, symbolizing alliances between families or communities. Ceremonies and rituals likely marked these unions.
Relationship Ideals
Familial bonds and communal cohesion were significant. Marriages might have reinforced social ties and facilitated economic cooperation between families.
